Head of Engineering

Shemar Power Engineering; Manchester; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Head of Engineering to lead overhead transmission line projects. This pivotal leadership role requires over 15 years of HV/EHV engineering experience and strong management capabilities. The candidate should be a Chartered Engineer with a proven track record in large-scale transmission projects. Key responsibilities include developing technical roadmaps, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and overseeing departmental activities. Join us to shape the future of the UK's transmission network!

Qualifications

• 15+ years of HV / EHV OHL engineering experience.
• 5+ years in management or senior technical roles.
• Chartered Engineer in a relevant discipline.

Responsibilities

• Develop technical roadmaps and ensure compliance with standards.
• Lead system integration design and engineering implementation.
• Manage the wellbeing, recruitment, and budgeting of the department.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Knowledge of transmission engineering

Safety legislation expertise

Commercial acumen

Education

BSc in Electrical Engineering

MBA

Job description

🔌 Head of Engineering – Overhead Transmission Lines (UK)

📍 United Kingdom & EU | Full-time | Senior Leadership

We are seeking a Head of Engineering (Overhead Transmission Lines, OHL) to lead our technical and engineering operations. This is a pivotal leadership role for an accomplished Chartered Engineer with extensive HV / EHV OHL experience and a proven track record in delivering complex, large‑scale transmission projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop technical roadmaps and standard interfaces for OHL in the UK, ensuring compliance with BS / EN / IEC / ENA standards.
• Lead system integration design and engineering implementation of CICA cross‑arms, conductors, fittings, and towers.
• Drive product type testing, certification, and inclusion into Transmission Owners’ Approved Product List (APL).
• Support constructability, technical solutions, and HSE compliance for line uprating and new build projects.
• Serve as the technical interface to customers, supporting bids, clarifications, and deviation management.
• Collaborate with the Group CTO to promote adoption of new materials and processes.
• Ensure safety in design best practice across projects, with focus on CDM and ESQCR compliance.
• Manage the development, wellbeing, recruitment, and budgeting of the department.
• Oversee quality systems to ensure robust technical governance throughout the project lifecycle.
• Act as focal point for engagement with internal and external senior stakeholders.

Experience & Qualifications

• BSc in Electrical Engineering (MBA desirable).
• Chartered Engineer in a relevant discipline.
• 15+ years of HV / EHV OHL engineering experience.
• 5+ years in management or senior technical roles with transmission projects (TO, EPC, consultancy, or utility).
• Proven leadership across the full lifecycle of OHL projects: design, approval, testing, commissioning.

Technical & Leadership Skills

• Strong leadership and strategic thinking, with the ability to deliver under changing conditions.
• In-depth knowledge of transmission engineering disciplines, industry standards, and design requirements.
• Expertise in safety legislation (CDM, ESQCR) and network operations.
• Advanced understanding of project controls, technical governance, and capital project delivery.
• Commercial acumen: balancing CapEx / OpEx, regulatory frameworks, and investment cases.
• Strong contractual and procurement knowledge (NEC3, commercial strategies).
• Established network and credibility with consultants, contractors, and industry stakeholders.

Why Join Us?

This is a unique opportunity to shape the UK’s transmission network of the future—leading innovation in OHL design, new materials adoption, and large‑scale project delivery. You will have full responsibility for building and leading a high‑performing engineering team, while engaging directly with senior stakeholders across the industry.