Lead Engineer Protection Systems

Meritus; Stone; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering organisation in the UK is seeking a Lead Engineer specialising in Protection Systems. This role involves providing technical leadership, mentoring junior engineers, and ensuring the delivery of high-quality protection solutions in the energy sector. Candidates should have strong understanding of UK Transmission systems, excellent leadership skills, and a relevant technical degree. Hybrid working options are available, and the position is a 12-month contract, inside IR35.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of UK Transmission and Distribution systems and Protection Relay Technology.
• Natural leader with strong communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams under pressure.
• Familiarity with National Grid standards is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to project teams delivering protection system solutions.
• Mentor and support the development of engineers within the protection discipline.
• Lead the design process, including design reviews and stakeholder engagement.
• Ensure timely and quality delivery of tasks within budget.

Skills

UK Transmission and Distribution systems

Protection Relay Technology

Leadership and mentoring

Problem-solving

Communication

Analytical skills

Education

Relevant technical degree (Bachelor's, Master's or equivalent)

Tools

IEC 61850

Single-line diagrams

Schematic drawings

Job description

MERITUS are recruiting for a Lead Engineer specialising in Protection Systems to join our multi-national energy and nuclear client.

LEAD ENGINEER – PROTECTION SYSTEMS – £NEG – TWO STAGE INTERVIEW PROCESS – STONE, STAFFORDSHIRE OR GLASGOW, SCOTLAND (HYBRID WORKING OPTIONS AVAILABLE) – RELOCATE TO UK! – 12 MONTH CONTRACT – INSIDE IR35

A leading engineering organisation is seeking experienced Lead Engineers in Protection Systems with a strong track record in the UK Transmission and Distribution sector. As part of a dedicated Protection and Control team, you will be responsible for the design, development, and delivery of protection systems for clients across the UK's energy infrastructure.

This role requires both deep technical expertise and strong leadership skills. You will guide engineering teams, mentor junior staff, and contribute to the successful delivery of high‑quality protection solutions that meet client, industry, and regulatory standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to project teams delivering protection system solutions.
• Mentor and support the development of engineers within the protection discipline.
• Collaborate with project managers to identify and manage project changes, risks, costs, and schedules.
• Lead the end‑to‑end design process, including design reviews and stakeholder engagement, to ensure compliant, fit‑for‑purpose solutions.
• Work across disciplines to ensure cohesive project delivery and client satisfaction.
• Develop single‑line diagrams (ilus), key‑line diagrams (KLD), and concept‑level designs to meet client and project requirements.
• Conduct site visits and non‑intrusive surveys to support design development and project implementation.
• Produce and review technical documentation to support all phases of system delivery.
• Lead the creation of protection designs, including schematic drawings and collaboration with hardware and contractor teams.
• Oversee the development of protection settings and configuration of solutions.Contribute to the type registration process to ensure compliance with relevant national specifications.
• Ensure timely and quality delivery of assigned tasks and deliverables within budget.
• Provide technical input and guidance during sales and tendering processes.

Candidate Profile

• Strong understanding of UK Transmission and Distribution systems and Protection Relay Technology, with experience across vendors such as GE, Siemens, SEL, or ABB.
• Practical knowledge of IEC 61850 and its field implementation.
• Natural leader with strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Structured, analytical approach to problem‑solving and project delivery.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate teams, especially under pressure or tight deadlines.
• Holds a relevant technical degree (Bachelor's, Master's Vogitors, or equivalent) or comparable qualifications with relevant industry experience.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel as required.
• Familiarity with National Grid standards and policies is desirable, but not essential.