Associate Director Overhead Lines (OHL)

Jacobs; Belfast; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Jacobs is seeking an Associate Director Overhead Lines to support high-profile projects in Belfast involving high voltage systems. You will develop engineering drawings and mentor a team of design engineers while engaging with clients and ensuring project success.

The ideal candidate has proven experience in OHL design, a degree in Engineering, and strong stakeholder engagement skills. This role offers opportunities for flexible working and we welcome applications from all suitable candidates.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in OHL design within UK transmission environments.
• Chartered Engineer (IET) or working towards chartership.
• Familiarity with National Grid and DNO standards.

Responsibilities

• Develop engineering drawings and design documentation.
• Oversee sag-tension calculations and structure analysis.
• Prepare project scope and budget proposals.

Skills

OHL design experience (132kV–400kV)

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Project delivery

Industry-standard software proficiency

Education

Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Civil or Electrical)

Tools

PLS‑CADD

AutoCAD

Microstation

Job description

The Associate Director Overhead Lines (OHL) role supports high‑profile projects across our Power & Energy portfolio, including high voltage AIS and GIS substations, transmission system assets, HV overhead lines, HVDC interconnectors, and energy storage systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and design documentation using software tools such as PLS‑CADD, AutoCAD and Microstation.
• Oversee technical activities, line routing, sag‑tension calculations, structure analysis, conductor selection, clearance reports, and design documentation.
• Prepare and review proposals and reports detailing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations.
• Engage regularly in client‑facing design reviews and technical workshops.
• Lead and mentor a team of specialist design engineers working on overhead transmission line solutions.
• Identify and manage project risks to ensure successful delivery.
• Promote a strong safety culture.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients to drive project success.
• Ensure all designs are appropriately reviewed and approved in line with best practice and by an appropriately qualified individual.
• Work with the resource manager to expand the team.
• Work with the existing team to improve and implement efficient design processes.
• Work with the wider team to ensure designs are sustainable and support environmental and planning aspects of the works.
• Deal with any issues arising from the construction teams.
• Ensure that the drawings and specification documents contain sufficient, accurate information for construction of the works.

Requirements

• Proven experience in OHL design (132kV–400kV), ideally within UK transmission and distribution environments.
• Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Civil or Electrical) or equivalent.
• Chartered Engineer (IET) or working towards chartership.
• Familiarity with National Grid and DNO standards and processes.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical workstreams and contribute to strategic project delivery.
• Proficient in industry‑standard software such as PLS‑CADD, PLS‑Tower, PLS‑Pole, and AutoDesk tools.

As a disability confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.