Job Description

If you'd like to be considered for this opportunity we encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment as if applications are high the role will close before the closing date given.
Shape the Future of UK Nuclear Infrastructure
Programme Construction Lead
Salary: Up to 100,000 (depending on your suitability and level of experience)
Location: Reading area
Closing Date: 26th January 2026
Are you ready to lead one of the most ambitious construction programmes in the UK? At AWE, we're building the Future Materials Campus (FMC)--seven cutting-edge facilities that will enable nuclear security technologies and science for generations to come.
This is a project on a scale comparable to Crossrail, delivered on a site the size of the 2012 Olympic Park. It's complex, challenging, and offers an unparalleled opportunity to make your mark on a programme that will define the future of engineering and construction innovation.
Your Impact
As Programme Construction Lead, you'll provide strategic leadership across a vast portfolio of projects, ensuring delivery excellence, safety, and innovation. You'll be the go-to expert for construction strategy, influencing decisions at the highest level and driving collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams.
What We're Looking For
Proven experience in strategic construction leadership for large-scale programmes.
Expertise in NEC and ECI contracts, procurement, and commercial strategy.
Strong technical knowledge of DfMA, construction methodologies, and logistics planning.
Exceptional communication skills to engage stakeholders and present at senior levels.
Experience in nuclear or highly regulated environments with Intelligent Customer responsibilities.
Degree in engineering or construction management and Chartered/Fellow status with a relevant professional body.
Safety accreditation such as SMSTS or NEBOSH Construction.
Why Join AWE?
9-day working fortnight - every other Friday off.
270 hours annual leave plus market-leading pension (up to 13% employer contribution).
Professional development support, including funding for memberships.
Life Assurance (4x salary), Employee Assistance Programme, and health services.
Discounts and special leave policies for volunteering and public service.
Relocation support is available (conditions apply)
Hybrid working options (informal, non-contractual).
The 'Working at AWE' page on our website is where you can find full details in the 'AWE Benefits Guide'.
This is more than a job--it's a chance to lead innovation, shape the future, and deliver infrastructure that matters.
Next steps:
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don't always 'tick every box'. That's why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don't meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we'd love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know:
We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes.
You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.
Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
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Next steps:
Everyone who works at AWE brings unique skills and perspectives to the table. We recognise that great people don't always 'tick every box'. That's why we focus on your potential, your fit with our values, your transferable skills as well as your experience. Even if you don't meet every point above, but you feel that this role and AWE are a great fit for you, please go ahead and apply, we'd love to receive your application.
Important things you need to know:

• We encourage you to apply promptly to avoid disappointment if applications are high and the role therefore closes.
• You will need to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE. The nature of our work does mean you need to be a British Citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 5 years in order to apply for SC clearance and 10 years for DV.
• We want you to feel comfortable and able to shine during our recruitment process. Please let us know on your application form if you need any adjustments/accommodations during the process.
• Our interviews typically take place over Teams and for most roles are a 1 stage process.

Our ambition is to create workplaces where we recognise and celebrate differences, encourage diverse contributions and our employees feel able to be themselves at work. We strive to create a genuine culture of openness and inclusion and encourage diverse applicants. Any inclusion information you provide will be stored in accordance with GDPR and kept separate from your application form and CV, and the information will not be shared with anyone involved in interviewing or making hiring decisions.
Please note that you must be a British Citizen to apply for a role with us.

Skills Required