We are recruiting for a Laboratory Manager to join us at Avonmouth as part of the Marine & Tunnelling function within the CWA (Civil Works Alliance) — and this is genuinely a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

As part of the CWA, we are supporting the construction of Sizewell C, a 3.2-gigawatt power station that will generate low-carbon electricity for around 6 million homes. This landmark infrastructure project will play a critical role in the UK’s energy future, supplying reliable, clean electricity for at least 60 years.

This is your opportunity to establish and lead a UKAS-accredited materials testing facility at the heart of a nationally significant nuclear programme.

What you’ll be doing

In this role, you’ll take full ownership of the establishment, operation and management of construction materials testing to support the manufacture of tunnel segments and marine heads and ramps.

You’ll lead on the development and validation of nuclear-qualified concrete mixes for precast tunnel linings and associated structures — ensuring full compliance with client specifications and ISO 17025 standards.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Establishing and maintaining a UKAS accredited laboratory facility

• Agreeing testing regimes and producing Inspection & Test Plans aligned to specification requirements

• Implementing and managing a digital materials testing system

• Leading calibration registers, equipment procurement and inventory control

• Managing laboratory quality systems, audits and UKAS assessment visits

• Ensuring safe, compliant and sustainable delivery with a relentless focus on Zero Harm

• Overseeing daily resource allocation and shift patterns

• Managing supplier test results and external test house coordination

• Reporting compliance metrics and KPIs to senior stakeholders

• Recruiting, mentoring and developing junior team members, including conducting PDRs and succession planning

What we’re looking for

We’re seeking an experienced laboratory leader with:

• Proven experience running a UKAS accredited laboratory on a major construction project

• In-depth knowledge of ISO 17025

• Experience working in a nuclear environment

• Strong technical expertise in materials testing, particularly low slump concrete for tunnel segment manufacture

• Experience in auditing, training and developing junior staff

• NVQ Level 3 (or equivalent) and a full UK driving licence

You’ll be confident managing data, budgets and compliance frameworks, comfortable implementing digital reporting platforms, and capable of presenting technical information clearly to a range of stakeholders. A background in construction materials (concrete, aggregates, cement) and continuous improvement methodologies will be highly advantageous.

Why this role stands out

The Civil Works Alliance brings together Sizewell C, Balfour Beatty, Bouygues Travaux Publics and Laing O’Rourke — combining international expertise and experience from some of the world’s most complex infrastructure programmes.

You’ll be part of a single integrated delivery organisation with a strong culture built on safety, collaboration, sustainability and technical excellence. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives are valued and where talented professionals can thrive and develop long-term careers.

If you’re ready to lead a high-performing laboratory team on one of the UK’s most significant infrastructure projects — and want your expertise to directly support the nation’s clean energy future — I’d love to hear from you.

Click the link below to apply and be part of building Sizewell C.