Cheri
Scheduler
"Go for the opportunity rather than overthinking it."
Cheri’s journey from healthcare to nuclear
After building a career in the healthcare sector, Cheri was yearning for a role where she could develop her skills and make a real impact.
We talk through Cheri’s transition into the nuclear sector through an accelerated training programme, her role at Babcock, how she learned from sector professionals, and her advice for aspiring nuclear professionals.
Fast-tracked development through targeted training
Cheri’s route into the industry highlights the benefits of early-career programmes.
An accelerated training programme at Babcock offered Cheri an environment in which she could learn from experienced professionals working on projects of national importance, allowing her to gain hands-on experience from day one.
While she found the programme demanding, Cheri highlighted just how valuable it was. Helping her bridge the gap between her previous career and her new work environment, the training programme provided her with a considerable amount of new knowledge that she subsequently applied directly in her role as a scheduler.
A career with real impact
Working within the Project Management Office (PMO) at Babcock’s Devonport site in Plymouth, her role supports the delivery of a major on-site infrastructure programme. The project involves substantial upgrades to Devonport's existing infrastructure to ensure the facility can continue to support the UK's submarine fleet for decades to come.
For Cheri, this role is more than a simple change of employment; it offers her the opportunity to apply her existing professional experience to a new sector, acquire new skills, and contribute to a nationally significant defence infrastructure.
Supporting the next wave of nuclear talent
For many people considering moving into nuclear, Cheri’s advice is to “go for the opportunity rather than overthinking it”. Her experience suggests that curiosity and a willingness to learn can be important strengths when transitioning into nuclear.
Entering a new industry inevitably means coming across unfamiliar terminology, processes, and subject matter. But, rather than seeing that as a disadvantage, Cheri emphasises the importance of remaining curious and asking questions.
Your questions, answered honestly
Nuclear scheduler FAQs
What does a nuclear scheduler do?
A nuclear scheduler helps keep projects on track by ensuring schedules are up to date and within an agreed timeframe.
Other key responsibilities within this role include supporting cost control and risk management teams where appropriate, as well as helping to produce monthly reports and generating key performance indicators.
Is nuclear experience mandatory for a scheduler role?
Nuclear experience isn’t essential for a scheduler role, and Cheri’s experience highlights just how much the industry values transferable skills.
If you’re wondering about other pathways within the industry, browse the rest of our career journeys. There, you’ll find more stories from people who have made the switch to nuclear.
What is the average salary for a scheduler role in nuclear?
With median nuclear wages 1.8x the national average, salaries in the sector are extremely competitive.
Depending on the organisation and location, baseline salaries for schedulers in the nuclear sector range from £28,000 to £33,000 and can exceed £80,000 as experience builds.
Nuclear boasts some of the best career perks, and high salaries are just one of them. Visit our benefits page to discover more of what the industry has to offer.
How do I know which pathway is right for me?
If you’re not sure which pathway is right for you, there are plenty of other routes into the nuclear sector. With roles in project management, cybersecurity, and welding available, the sector offers a wide range of pathways for people ready to build a long‑term, future‑proof career.
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