New Industry, New Opportunities

Fancy a change of direction? The UK's nuclear sector might just be the perfect next step in your career journey. With plans to fill 40,000 new roles by 2030, we're not just looking for fresh graduates and apprentices – we need experienced professionals from other industries to bring their valuable skills and perspectives.

Our Commitment

As part of the Nuclear Skills Plan, the sector has committed to:

- Deliver interventions targeted specifically at mid-career entrants
- Address existing shortfalls in the most critical professions
- Create accelerated learning and upskilling opportunities
- Work with the Destination Nuclear campaign to promote these opportunities

Why Switch to Nuclear?

Wondering what makes nuclear worth the leap? Here's what the sector offers career switchers:

- Meaningful work that contributes directly to the UK's energy security and net zero goals
- Long-term stability with projects that span decades
- Diverse opportunities across civil and defence applications
- Transferable skills that are valued and recognised
- Structured development with clear progression paths
- Competitive packages reflecting the strategic importance of the sector

 

Your Skills Are Needed

The nuclear sector needs a range of skills from adjacent sectors, including:

- Engineering disciplines (mechanical, electrical, civil, chemical)
- Construction and project management
- Welding and other critical trades
- Digital and cybersecurity expertise
- Environmental sciences
- Safety and regulation

Many of the skills you've developed elsewhere can be adapted to the nuclear industry with the right training and support – you don't necessarily need to start from scratch!

 

How We'll Support Your Transition

 

Making a career change can feel daunting, but the Nuclear Skills Plan includes specific measures to smooth your path:

- Accelerated learning programmes designed specifically for mid-career entrants
- Upskilling opportunities to adapt your existing expertise to nuclear applications
- Clear information about how your current skills and experience translate to nuclear roles
- Industry connections through [Regional Skills Hubs] and the wider nuclear community

 

For Organisations

Looking to attract experienced professionals from other sectors? Here's how your organisation can get involved:

- Work with the Nuclear Sector Skills Team to develop transition pathways
- Connect with Regional Skills Hubs to address specific regional needs
- Participate in the Destination Nuclear campaign to reach potential career switchers
- Share best practices for integrating professionals from adjacent sectors

 

Next Steps

Ready to explore how your skills could transfer to nuclear?

- Visit the Destination Nuclear Careers Portal to explore current opportunities
- Connect with Regional Skills Hubs in your area
- Contact us to find out our latest upskilling programmes


Curious about other routes into nuclear?

Take a look at our Apprenticeships, Graduates, and PhDs pages.

The Nuclear Skills Plan recognises that mid-career entrants are crucial to meeting the sector's ambitious growth targets and addressing critical skills shortages.

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