CDAE - Primary design Engineer

ERSG Ltd; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm based in Birmingham is seeking a Primary Design Engineer for HV Substations to lead design delivery for high-voltage substation projects. The ideal candidate will have over 10 years of experience in HV substation design and a strong understanding of relevant engineering standards. Responsibilities include design approvals, project planning, and ensuring compliance with National Grid requirements.

Qualifications

• Over 10 years' experience in HV substation design.
• Strong understanding of AIS/GIS up to 400kV and HV plant equipment.
• Membership in a relevant professional body (e.g., MIET).

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate HV primary substation design.
• Check and approve key design deliverables.
• Act as Contractor Design Approval Engineer per National Grid.
• Review technical specifications and supplier proposals.

Skills

HV substation design

Electrical engineering

Project planning

Risk assessment

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering

Chartered Engineer or working towards chartership

Job description

Primary Design Engineer - HV Substations

Overview

Lead the design delivery for high-voltage (up to 400kV) substation projects, ensuring alignment with National Grid requirements and industry standards. Support Design Delivery Managers with team oversight and contribute to project planning and procurement.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate HV primary substation design, ensuring compliance with specifications and applicable standards.
• Check and approve key design deliverables: single line diagrams, layouts, SC force and earthing calculations, access provisions, etc.
• Act as Contractor Design Approval Engineer (CDAE) per National Grid procedures.
• Represent the Principal Designer role under CDM 2015, where required.
• Review technical specs and supplier proposals.
• Support planning, work allocation, and resource coordination within the design team.
• Contribute to design risk assessments and ensure safety and sustainability by design.
• Prepare and review design management plans (DEMP) and ensure compliance with internal engineering expectations (e.g., GMEE).

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent); Chartered Engineer or working towards chartership.
• Member of a relevant professional body (e.g., MIET).
• 10+ years' experience in HV substation design.
• Strong understanding of AIS / GIS up to 400kV and HV plant equipment.
• Familiarity with National Grid standards and TP...