How to start a career in nuclear engineering without an engineering degree

Hi, I'm Lesley, an Assistant Nuclear Safety & Reliability Engineer in the Nuclear Safety and Licensing team at Power New Build, Nuclear & Power. I joined AtkinsRéalis in 2022 on the graduate scheme right after I completed my physics degree.

I've always wanted a career in STEM to help change the world for the better.

However, I was uncertain about what career path I wanted. AtkinsRéalis was the perfect fit for me. As a global consultancy, it offered a huge variety of opportunities, and I could bring many transferrable skills from my degree. Plus, it was important for me to work at an organization where my work would be purpose-driven and aligned with my values.

Empowered as a future technical leader in nuclear safety

Since joining the company, I have worked for major clients from around the world. As a result, I've gained invaluable knowledge and experience on various nuclear technologies, a diversity of plants, and different client organizations.

I've worked on some really interesting and impactful projects!

My dream experience working on nuclear power plants

One of my key roles was creating an Evaluation Manual for bids on a new Nuclear Power Plant in the Middle East, helping to set the safety bar right from the start. I've also been deeply involved with European pressurized reactors. I performed over 400 nuclear safety categorizations for manufacturing non-conformance reports and assessed design changes.

Hands-on innovation in nuclear engineering

On the more innovative side, I supported the development of a methodology for Internal Combined Hazards assessments and will be applying it to a small modular reactor design. I've also worked on safety cases to extend the life of Britain's advanced gas reactors. What I'm most proud of, though, is achieving the status of Authorized Nuclear Safety Categorizer—it's a recognition of my dedication to ensuring the highest safety standards in the nuclear field.

Recognized and rewarded beyond my technical role

I started as the Nuclear & Power graduate, apprentice, and placement community chair for Bristol, eventually taking on the role for the entire UK. In this position, I've overseen UK-wide initiatives and worked with senior leadership to improve the early careers experience. A standout moment was being a finalist in SPARK! Contest, which connects young talent in the Franco-British energy community. I was also a finalist for the Nuclear & Power Early Career Professional of the Year award. I've enjoyed volunteering, too, from the Net Zero Superhero competition with school kids to supporting Women In Nuclear events, and I'm now organizing the 2025 Women In Nuclear Global Conference!

Engineering careers with work-life balance at AtkinsRéalis

I've maintained a healthy work/life balance while achieving amazing things at work, thanks to AtkinsRéalis' support and flexible working options. As someone who loves travel, I've used the 'Flexible holiday' scheme to buy extra days off and explore new countries—next up, the East Coast of Australia with my high school friends in 2025! At work, I've grown close with my team and the Early Careers community. We celebrate personal wins, have cake days, and enjoy a friendly, inclusive environment, making it easier to balance work and life.

You can start a nuclear career without an engineering degree!

Career changes happen all the time. No matter where you are in life, the industry needs you. You'll fit right in if you're passionate about what we do. Although I have a physics degree, most of my knowledge came from on-the-job learning and training at AtkinsRéalis. You likely already have transferable skills, such as communication, problem-solving, and teamwork—valuable assets that will help you adapt to different roles.

Sometimes, the best paths are the ones you didn't initially consider!

So, talk to career counselors or professionals in various industries. Make connections on LinkedIn and ask questions, as they can provide valuable insights and help you understand different career paths. Don't forget to be open to exploring other opportunities and learning new things.

Keen to explore exciting opportunities in nuclear engineering, even without an engineering degree? Learn more and browse our fantastic graduate roles.