By tapping into our trusted nuclear talent network, we helped Costain maintain momentum and meet the critical demands of one of the UK’s most sensitive infrastructure projects.

Here’s how we’re driving project success with specialist engineering talent for Costain at AWE.

At a glance

Costain Group helps to improve people’s lives by creating connected, sustainable infrastructure that enables people and the planet thrive. 

The brief

Our partnership with Costain, a leading construction and engineering specialist, began in 2023 when they sought expert recruitment support for a pivotal phase of work on the Atomic Weapons Establishment’s (AWE) Project MENSA. With a focus on commissioning activities, they urgently needed experienced professionals who could support the delivery of this high-security, technically complex programme.

The project demanded the immediate deployment of Commissioning Managers with deep domain knowledge, particularly in nuclear safety, commissioning protocols, and defence-grade compliance. Costain turned to our agency, known for our focused expertise in engineering recruitment within the nuclear sector, to find the right talent in a highly constrained market.

Challenges

The primary challenge was the acute shortage of skilled commissioning professionals in the UK nuclear sector. These roles required not just technical qualifications and hands-on experience, but also active security clearance and the ability to work on a project of national importance.

Given the specificity of the skill set, along with the classified nature of the project, the talent pool was extremely limited. Time was also a critical factor, as delays in staffing would directly impact the project delivery schedule.

Our approach

We leveraged our specialist nuclear engineering talent network, cultivated over many years, to rapidly identify and qualify candidates who were both technically capable and security-cleared. Our team focused on proactive engagement, including direct headhunting and tapping into referral networks that were not accessible through traditional job advertising methods.
Understanding the sensitivity and complexity of Project MENSA, we also ensured rigorous vetting processes and worked closely with Costain’s project management teams to align technical competencies and cultural fit.

Outcome

Within a short turnaround, we successfully placed a team of Commissioning Managers who have now been engaged on the project for over two years. These professionals have played a key role in driving the commissioning phase forward and are committed through to the completion of Project MENSA.

Our collaboration not only filled critical gaps in Costain’s delivery team but also ensured continuity and stability in one of the UK’s most high-stakes engineering environments.

“I’ve worked with Harry Smith in both a contracting and hiring capacity for 2+ years now. He understands the Nuclear Engineering market well and gets to the point quickly. He’s reliable, communicates clearly, and consistently delivers on what he says he’ll do. Whether you’re looking for a role or trying to fill one, Harry makes the process straightforward. I’d recommend him to anyone who values a direct and efficient recruitment approach.”

Commissioning Manager, Costain

Conclusion

This partnership demonstrates the value of working with a recruitment agency that specialises in nuclear engineering. Through our deep market insight, trusted talent networks, and a focused delivery model, we enabled Costain to overcome a severe skills shortage and maintain momentum on a mission-critical infrastructure project.

If you would like to know more about how we’re driving project success with specialist engineering talent for Costain at AWE, or how we can help you achieve your hiring strategy needs, please reach out to Harry Smith – Associate Director, Nuclear.

Or, take a look at our dedicated Nuclear recruitment and career portal to discover the information you need about our services.