Director of Cable Systems Design - National Grid Substation Projects (400kV)

Westwood Recruitment; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy consultancy is seeking a Director of Cable System Design for high-profile projects related to high-voltage substations and interconnectors. Candidates should have over 18 years of experience in the power sector, strong expertise in cable engineering, and familiarity with HVDC systems. The role offers flexible working arrangements and a competitive salary package to support professional growth in the energy sector.

Benefits

Competitive pay

Single medical cover

Enhanced parental leave

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• 18+ years of experience in cable engineering and consultancy.
• Experience with HV/EHV cable design across project lifecycles.
• Proficient in cable system modeling software.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and management of HV/EHV cable design.
• Provide technical guidance on cable system engineering.
• Ensure compliance with CDM regulations and internal quality processes.

Skills

Designing HV cable systems

Stakeholder management

Technical workstream leadership

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering

Chartered Engineer (IET) or progressing toward chartership

Tools

CYMCAP

COMSOL

Job description

Title :

Director - Cable System Design - National Grid Substation Projects (400kV)

Location :

UK (flexible)

Experience :

18+ years

Salary :

Up to £120,000 / annum+ (Flexible dependant on experience)

About the Client :

Our client is a major player in the Energy & Power sector, delivering integrated, whole-system solutions across energy networks, generation technologies, and storage. They support organisations worldwide in navigating the shift from traditional thermal power to renewable, low‑carbon systems, helping cities and nations accelerate their energy transition strategies.

A position with our client means contributing to flagship programmes, solving challenging engineering problems, and shaping projects that have a lasting impact on communities and the wider environment. You’ll be part of a team that encourages growth and empowers people to deliver their best work.

About The Role :

As the client’s UK and European operations continue to expand, they are seeking a Director of Cable System Design to strengthen their leadership capability. This role will support a broad portfolio of high‑profile assignments, covering high‑voltage AIS / GIS substations, transmission infrastructure, HVDC interconnectors, and large‑scale energy storage.

Core Responsibilities :

• Extensive experience within consultancy, contracting, or utility environments in the power sector.
• Strong background in cable engineering, spanning FEED and detailed design stages.
• Lead the development and management of HV / EHV cable design across the full project lifecycle.
• Proficient with CYMCAP and COMSOL for cable system modelling.
• Experience working at EHV transmission voltages.
• Capable of designing HVAC and HVDC cable systems at high and extra‑high voltages.
• Produce specifications, conceptual and detailed designs, technical assessments, and project‑related site support.
• Provide specialist technical guidance on cable system engineering to internal teams.
• Prepare equipment specifications, tender documentation, route designs, and technical reports.
• Manage interfaces with multidisciplinary teams; attend meetings with clients, contractors, and project partners.
• Support factory acceptance testing.
• Perform key calculations (sizing, rating, TMF / EMF, sheath voltage, etc.).
• Oversee design verification and review activities.
• Ensure compliance with CDM regulations, statutory requirements, and internal quality processes.
• Promote best practice around safety, environmental performance, and risk management.
• Assist with temporary works design where applicable.
• Build and maintain productive working relationships with clients, designers, internal teams and suppliers.
• Provide guidance on setting‑out methods and engineering techniques.
• Review drawings and documents for completeness, raising early queries where information is required.
• Produce RAMS documentation.
• Ensure inspection and test plans are completed in accordance with project specifications, including checks on accuracy and quality.

Qualifications :

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
• Chartered Engineer (IET) or progressing toward chartership.
• Experience working under CDAE and TP141 authorisations.

Skills & Experience :

• Significant experience designing HV cable systems (132kV–400kV) across UK transmission and distribution environments.
• Strong understanding of National Grid and DNO standards and processes.
• Confident communicator with effective stakeholder management skills.
• Able to manage multiple priorities and operate under pressure.
• Proven ability to lead technical workstreams and contribute strategically to project delivery.

Work Environment & Flexibility :

The client promotes modern, flexible working arrangements. Their Energy & Power team is spread across several UK locations, including London, Birmingham, Reading, Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow and Exeter, but applications from across the UK are welcomed. Hybrid, part‑time and flexible hours can be discussed.

What the Client Offers :

The client aims to take a leading role in the global shift to cleaner energy and actively supports innovative thinking. Employees benefit from a collaborative international network where expertise is shared across regions to tackle common challenges.

They also encourage professional development and offer opportunities to mentor and support the next generation of engineers. Their UK benefits package includes competitive pay, single medical cover, digital GP access, enhanced parental leave, employee support programmes, reimbursement for professional memberships, and community engagement initiatives such as matched funding and paid volunteering.

Culture & Values :

The client’s culture is founded on safety, integrity, inclusion, and respect. They prioritise employee wellbeing, promote a sense of belonging, and champion diversity in all its forms. Their global employee networks focus on building community, connection, and visibility across the organisation.

As a Disability Confident employer, they guarantee interviews for disabled applicants who meet essential criteria. Applications from individuals seeking flexible working or who may not meet every listed requirement are also welcomed. Adjustments to the recruitment process can be provided upon request.

They value an open and supportive candidate experience and are happy to receive feedback or offer additional guidance at any stage.

How to Apply :

Submit your CV, highlighting relevant experience. Selected candidates will be contacted for an interview and practical skills evaluation.

Disclaimer :

By submitting your resume to Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd, you acknowledge and agree to the following : Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd acts as an employment agency and will work to find suitable employment opportunities for you. We do not guarantee employment. You agree that all information submitted to Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd is accurate and truthful. You agree to hold Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd harmless for any liabilities arising from employment, and to treat all candidate data as confidential.