HVDC Lead Engineer

Quest Global; Stafford; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 95,000; Full time

Job summary

Quest Global is seeking a Lead Verification and Validation Engineer to design, develop, and execute tests for HVDC control systems. You will ensure both correct software building and appropriate alignment with customer requirements, leading FATs and coordinating with engineering teams.

The role emphasizes rigorous test execution, defect reporting, and continual improvement within a collaborative engineering environment. Experience in HVDC and related tools is valued.

Qualifications

• HVDC knowledge or HVDC project experience required.
• Strong SDLC understanding, especially V-Model.
• Experience with test environments, lab setups, and debugging.

Responsibilities

• Design and create test cases based on software requirements.
• Execute test procedures and provide clear, structured reporting of results.
• Review and analyse test results, reporting status and findings.
• Communicate failures and issues to relevant engineering teams with clarity and accuracy.
• Understand project milestones and schedule required testing activities.
• Lead FAT with clients and support continuous improvement efforts.

Skills

Agile/Scrum familiarity

Excellent communication

Test design & execution

Problem solving

Requirements interpretation

Education

Engineering degree with power systems & power electronics or HVDC knowledge

Tools

Jira

PSCAD

MATLAB

PSS/E

RSCAD

Job description

Job Requirements

At Quest Global, it’s not just what we do but how and why we do it that makes us different. With over 25 years as an engineering services provider, we believe in the power of doing things differently to make the impossible possible. Our people are driven by the desire to make the world a better place—to make a positive difference that contributes to a brighter future. We bring together technologies and industries, alongside the contributions of diverse individuals who are empowered by an intentional workplace culture, to solve problems better and faster.

The Lead Verification and Validation Engineer ensures the verification and validation of HVDC Control Systems by designing, developing, and executing tests on Controls Software. The role ensures both that the software is built correctly and that the correct software is built, aligned with customer and project requirements.

Key Responsibilities

Design and create test cases based on software requirements.

• Execute test procedures and provide clear, structured reporting of results.
• Review and analyse test results, reporting status and findings.
• Communicate failures and issues to relevant engineering teams with clarity and accuracy.
• Understand key project plan milestones and ensure required testing activities are properly scheduled.
• Support continual improvement efforts by introducing new tools, methods, and process enhancements in collaboration with Continuous Improvement leaders.
• Promote a standard product methodology mindset, identifying opportunities for solution re-use and improving quality, reliability, and delivery timelines.
• Lead the Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) with clients.
• Conduct gap analysis between standard/design requirements and customer technical requirements, defining associated test needs.
• Provide expertise on control system requirements for RTDS lab setups, including AC/DC interface requirements, Plant Emulator interface needs, and power system modelling and verification in RSCAD.
• Apply strong problem-solving capabilities to support test execution, lab setup issues, and debugging challenges.

We are known for our extraordinary people who make the impossible possible every day. Questians are driven by hunger, humility, and aspiration. We believe that our company culture is the key to our ability to make a true difference in every industry we reach. Our teams regularly invest time and dedicated effort into internal culture work, ensuring that all voices are heard.

We wholeheartedly believe in the diversity of thought that comes with fostering a culture rooted in respect, where everyone belongs, is valued, and feels inspired to share their ideas. We know embracing our unique differences makes us better, and that solving the worlds hardest engineering problems requires diverse ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds. We shine the brightest when we tap into the many dimensions that thrive across over 21,000 difference-makers in our workplace.

Work Experience

• Engineering degree (or equivalent) including power systems and power electronics subjects or proven equivalent HVDC knowledge and experience.
• Strong understanding of the Software Development Life Cycle, particularly the V-Model.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills, especially in test environments, lab setups, and debugging.
• Strong sense of urgency with the ability to identify and manage technical risks.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and understand detailed software requirements.
• Understanding of functional characteristics of power systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines while maintaining safety, quality, and engineering integrity.
• Flexibility regarding working hours.

Desired Characteristics

• Experience with Agile or Scrum methodologies.
• Familiarity with Jira.
• Experience with test management tools.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Knowledge of HVDC control systems, protection, and sequencing strategy.
• Understanding of HVDC station equipment and interlocking design.
• Experience with PSCAD/RSCAD dynamic performance studies.
• Knowledge of Line Commutated Converters (LCC) or Voltage Source Converters (VSC).
• Experience with tools such as MATCAD, PSCAD, PSS/E, RSCAD, MATLAB, etc.
• Knowledge of applicable electrical standards (e.g., IEC 61850, IEC 62351, IEC 12207, IEEE 15288, IEC 25010, IEC 27032, NERC/CIP).
• Previous experience in the HVDC industry.