Test Operations Partner for West Burton Fusion Power Plant Facility

We are seeking an operations partner to establish and manage a temporary operational test facility in the West Burton region. This facility will serve as a hub for critical test activities supporting the STEP (Spherical Tokamak for Energy Production) fusion power plant program before transitioning to permanent bespoke facilities on or near the West Burton Power Plant site (a repurposed coal-fired power station) within 2-4 years. The facility will initially operate from an existing commercial lease unit and will house multiple first-of-a-kind (FOAK) test rigs and simulators, including: scaled superconducting magnet testing, high-power microwave testing, novel cooling cycle testing with high-temperature turbomachinery, control room simulators, and associated smaller test activities. Key Responsibilities: - Coordinate complex testing operations across multiple high-risk activities - Manage operational hazards including hazardous voltages, pressurized systems, flammable substances, cryogenics, high magnetic fields, and radiofrequency energy - Implement appropriate safety and risk management protocols - Utilize digital tools and Building Information Management Systems (BIMS) for space allocation and coordination - Ensure seamless transition planning to permanent facilities This is a critical role for a major UK fusion energy research program. Bidders should have expertise in managing complex technical facilities with multiple hazardous environments and experience coordinating large-scale research or industrial test operations.