Lead Engineer - Protection Systems

Meritus Talent; United Kingdom; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering organisation seeks a Lead Engineer specialising in Protection Systems to join their team in Glasgow. The successful candidate will guide engineering teams and deliver high-quality protection solutions for clients in the UK's energy sector. Strong leadership and technical skills in Transmission systems are a must for this hybrid role.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of UK Transmission and Distribution systems.
• Proven ability to lead teams under pressure.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership to project teams delivering protection system solutions.
• Mentor and support the development of engineers.
• Lead the end-to-end design process and ensure timely project delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Analytical Problem-Solving

Mentorship

Education

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

Tools

IEC 61850

Protection Relay Technology

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 - GBPNEG - TWO STAGE INTERVIEW PROCESS - GLASGOW (HYBRID WORKING OPTIONS AVAILABLE)

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 (SLD), 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, 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.