Lead Design Engineer

Turner Lovell; London; Hybrid; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading utility infrastructure contractor is seeking a Lead Design Engineer to deliver and review Protection & Control designs for DNO substation projects across the UK. This freelance role offers flexible working, autonomy, and the chance to contribute to high-profile energy projects, with an initial duration of 6-12 months and potential for extension.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in Protection & Control design for UK DNO substations (11kV-132kV).
• Strong understanding of UK DNO standards (UKPN, SSE, ENWL, WPD, SPEN).
• Ability to work independently and manage design packages from concept through to delivery.

Responsibilities

• Deliver detailed Protection & Control designs for DNO substation networks.
• Review and approve third-party and internal designs for accuracy and compliance.
• Act as the technical lead on Protection & Control aspects of substation projects.

Skills

Protection & Control design

Communication

AutoCAD

Protection system software

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

ETAP

DigSILENT

Job description

Lead Design Engineer - Protection & Control

Location: London/Home Counties (Remote/Hybrid Options Available)
Contract Type: Freelance / Outside IR35
Initial duration: 6-12 months (with potential for extension)
Day Rate: £450 - £600

Turner Lovell are currently recruiting for a leading utility infrastructure contractor in their search for a Lead Design Engineer to deliver and review Protection & Control designs for DNO substation projects across the UK (11kV-132kV). This contract role offers flexible working, autonomy, and the opportunity to contribute to high-profile energy projects.

In this role, you will work on a DNO framework where there are a number of new substations and electricity infrastructure that need to be developed. This is an exciting time to join the team and secure long term work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Deliver detailed Protection & Control designs for DNO substation networks, including schematics, wiring diagrams, and protection settings.
• Review and approve third-party and internal designs to ensure technical accuracy, compliance, and constructability.
• Act as the technical lead on Protection & Control aspects of substation projects, supporting project delivery teams and interfacing with clients.
• Ensure all designs are aligned with current UK standards (ENA, BS, IEC) and individual DNO specifications.
• Provide input into protection coordination studies and assist with the configuration of relays and protection schemes.
• Participate in design reviews, provide technical feedback, and ensure timely delivery of design documentation.
• Support QA processes and ensure documentation is complete, correct, and well-structured for handover.

Requirements:

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Proven experience in Protection & Control design for UK DNO substations (11kV-132kV).
• Strong understanding of UK DNO standards (UKPN, SSE, ENWL, WPD, SPEN).
• Proficient in AutoCAD and protection system software (e.g., ETAP, DigSILENT).
• Ability to work independently and manage design packages from concept through to delivery.
• Previous experience operating on a freelance or contract basis is preferred.
• Strong communication skills for interfacing with engineering teams and clients.

If this could be your next opportunity, please apply and contact Anusha Gopalan ([e-mail]) for more information.