Radiological Protection Advisor

Warrington / Newbury / Leicester / Bristol | Defence & Nuclear | 12‑Month Contract | Inside IR35

A Principal Radiation Protection Consultant contract role has been created to support a major UK defence programme, delivering expert radiation protection advice across complex nuclear and highly regulated environments. This is a senior, hands‑on role for an established RPA who wants to influence safety, design, and delivery at a programme level.

You’ll act as the technical authority for Radiation Protection, working closely with safety case teams, engineers, and operational stakeholders to ensure radiological risks are controlled, compliant, and demonstrably ALARP. The role blends technical leadership with practical delivery and client-facing engagement.

Hybrid working is available (typically 1–2 days per week in the office), with occasional UK travel approximately once per month.

What you’ll be doing

• Acting as the lead Radiation Protection Adviser (RPA) on a major defence programme
• Providing expert advice on radiological safety, legislation, and best practice
• Supporting the design and operation of plant and processes to ensure ALARP principles are embedded
• Producing and reviewing key radiation protection documentation, including:
  • Dose Uptake Assessments
  • Radiological Risk Assessments
  • Radiological Zoning and ALARP assessments
  • Operating Instructions and compliance statements
• Interfacing closely with safety case teams and other technical disciplines
• Leading or mentoring other Radiation Protection professionals as required
• Contributing to planning and delivery, including estimation of effort, resourcing, and technical outputs

What we’re looking for

• Proven experience in a senior radiation protection role within nuclear and/or defence
• RPA2000 Certified Radiation Protection Adviser (essential)
• Demonstrable experience providing technical leadership and assurance
• Strong understanding of UK radiological legislation and regulatory expectations
• Experience supporting complex facilities, new builds, or major modifications
• Confident communicator, comfortable engaging with clients and multidisciplinary teams

Security & eligibility

• Role is subject to UK trade controls
• UK Developed Vetting (DV) required
• Candidates must be sole UK nationals
• Able to start on BPSS while DV is in progress

If you’re an experienced RPA looking for a high‑impact contract role on a nationally significant programme, this is a great opportunity to make a real technical contribution.

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