Lead HV Substation Engineer – Power & Grid

Vulcain Engineering Group; England; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

25 Days Annual Leave

Matched Pension Scheme

Private Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Bike to Work Scheme

Travel Insurance

Employee Development

Job summary

Vulcain Engineering UK invites a Lead HV Substation Engineer to own high‑voltage substation design and delivery, guiding engineering teams on major projects supporting the UK’s energy transition.

You’ll shape primary/secondary design, optimize layouts, and ensure safe, compliant installation and operation while collaborating with multidisciplinary teams in an international, innovation‑driven environment.

Qualifications

• Strong background in primary/secondary design engineering of HV substations.
• CDAE certification (National Grid) is essential.
• Proficiency in CAD/design tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, or BIM.

Responsibilities

• Lead the engineering design of primary and secondary systems for HV substations.
• Translate project requirements into clear technical specifications.
• Develop and optimise substation layouts, ensuring safe installation, operation, and maintenance.
• Validate and review engineering deliverables to meet quality and schedule.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and suppliers to ensure seamless delivery.
• Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to engineers and designers.
• Contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

HV Substation Design

Primary/Secondary Design

Leadership

Problem Solving

Collaboration

Education

CDAE certification (National Grid)

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

BIM

Job description

Vulcain Engineering, a player in engineering and consulting, supports global industrial leaders in their transition to a more responsible and sustainable future. We support our customers in the design, construction, commissioning and operation of their complex infrastructures that will shape the world of tomorrow. With operations in 17 countries and employing over 6,000 staff worldwide, our business responds to the needs of our clients by delivering expertise in the form of high added value engineering services. In the UK, we have a key focus the Nuclear sector, contributing to ground breaking projects, such as Hinkley Point C (HPC).

The Position

Vulcain Engineering UK is expanding beyond our established nuclear expertise into the wider power and grid sector. As part of this growth, we are seeking a Lead HV Substation Engineer to take ownership of high-voltage substation design and delivery. This role offers the chance to lead technical work on projects that directly support the UK’s energy transition.

Some of the main responsibilities of the Lead HV Substation Engineer will include:

• Lead the engineering design of primary and secondary systems for HV substations.
• Translate project requirements into clear technical specifications.
• Develop and optimise substation layouts, ensuring safe installation, operation, and maintenance.
• Validate and review engineering deliverables to meet quality and schedule.
• Coordinate with multidisciplinary teams and suppliers to ensure seamless delivery.
• Provide technical leadership, guidance, and mentorship to engineers and designers.
• Contribute to design reviews, risk assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives.

You’ll be part of a growing team shaping Vulcain UK’s diversification beyond nuclear, working in an international environment that values collaboration and innovation. This is an opportunity to help deliver projects that make a tangible impact on the future of sustainable energy.

Alongside a Commitment To Our Values Of Care & Compassion, Performance, Team Spirit, And Inclusiveness, We Are Looking For Individuals Who Can Bring The Following

• Strong background in primary/secondary design engineering of HV substations.
• In-depth knowledge of substation standards, guidelines, and equipment.
• CDAE certification (National Grid) is essential.
• Proficiency in CAD/design tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, or BIM.
• Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams and manage technical delivery.
• Analytical, detail-focused, and collaborative with strong problem-solving skills.
• Flexible to travel occasionally for project or site activities.

Please note that visa sponsorship is not guaranteed and is assessed on a case-by-case basis, depending on role criticality and project needs. Many of our UK projects require high-level security clearance, meaning we can often only consider candidates with an existing, indefinite right to work in the UK. Exceptionally, we may consider visa sponsorship for applicants with niche experience aligned to our core work (e.g. EPR/nuclear new build).

Remuneration & Benefits

We offer a competitive salary tailored to your experience and background. Whether you're earlier in your career or bring more senior-level expertise, we encourage you to apply if this role aligns with your skills, or if you're open to discussing other opportunities within this discipline.

Benefits

We also offer a benefits package, both standard and enhanced, which is designed to support your wellbeing, development, and financial future, including:

• 25 Days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays, with the ability to swap bank holidays for cultural or religious celebrations
• Matched Pension Scheme
• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Adoption and Neonatal Care Leave
• Employee Referral Scheme
• Private Medical & Dental Insurance
• Electric Vehicle Scheme
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Training & Development, including additional qualifications and accreditations relevant to your role
• Travel Insurance – for both business and personal travel
• Employee Assistance Programme

Why join us?

At Vulcain Engineering, we offer more than just a job, we offer a rewarding career with endless opportunities for growth and development. You'll be part of a talented team of professionals working on exciting and meaningful projects and making a real impact to the nuclear industry. We offer a dynamic and collaborative work environment where your talents are valued, and your contributions are recognised. Join us in shaping the future of the nuclear industry and driving innovation to new heights. If you are ready to take on new challenges and unlock your full potential, we invite you to apply for our position.

Equal Opportunities

Vulcain Engineering UK is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone is valued and respected. We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, and do not discriminate based on age, gender, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic.

If you require any reasonable adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know, and we will be happy to accommodate your needs.

We appreciate every application. However, due to the volume we receive, we’re only able to contact candidates who are shortlisted for this role or who may be a strong fit for future opportunities.

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