Principal Design Engineer

ZipRecruiter; London; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consulting and engineering firm seeks a Senior Electrical Design Engineer to lead design projects within the Transmission & Distribution team across the UK. The successful candidate will have extensive experience in electrical design for transmission networks and be familiar with Grid standards. The role offers a competitive salary, flexibility in working arrangements, and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Attractive remuneration package with performance reviews

Flexible working arrangements

Generous annual leave allowance

Pension contributions

Private medical cover

Life insurance

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ professional experience in electrical design for transmission and distribution networks.
• Strong grasp of UK power engineering standards including those issued by the ENA and Grid.
• Demonstrable track record delivering design work on Grid-related schemes.

Responsibilities

• Lead or supervise complex electrical design projects.
• Develop and review technical outputs including single line diagrams.
• Engage with key stakeholders to ensure smooth project coordination.

Skills

High Voltage (HV/EHV) Cable Systems

Overhead Line Design

Protection & Control Engineering

Substation Engineering (AIS/GIS)

Education

Chartered engineer or actively pursuing chartered status

Tools

AutoCAD

Bentley software

ETAP

DigSILENT

Job description

Job Description

Position Title: Senior Electrical Design Engineer – Power Transmission

Location: Flexible across the UK (remote/hybrid options available) - Key Locations are London & South East/South West/Scotland

Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent

Salary: Competitive package with benefits

Industry: Energy & Utilities – Transmission Infrastructure

About the Role:

We’re looking for seasoned Electrical Design Engineers to take on a senior-level role within our expanding Transmission & Distribution (T&D) team. This opportunity is tailored for professionals with extensive experience in designing electrical infrastructure for UK transmission networks, particularly those familiar with Grid frameworks.

Applicants should bring in-depth technical knowledge in one or more of the following specialisms:

• High Voltage (HV/EHV) Cable Systems
• Overhead Line Design
• Protection & Control Engineering
• Substation Engineering (AIS/GIS)

About the Client:

My client is a leading global consultancy and engineering firm delivering innovative solutions across the energy, infrastructure, and environmental sectors. With a strong footprint in the UK power industry, they are actively involved in delivering major substation and high-voltage infrastructure projects that support the transition to a more sustainable and resilient energy network. Their teams are committed to technical excellence, safety, and collaborative project delivery.

Main Duties

• Lead or supervise complex electrical design projects, ensuring alignment with regulatory and client-specific standards.
• Develop and review technical outputs including single line diagrams, cable routing plans, substation layouts, protection schemes, and equipment specifications.
• Serve as a senior technical authority, providing guidance to engineering teams and participating in peer reviews.
• Engage with key stakeholders, including UK transmission operators and distribution network owners, to ensure smooth coordination throughout project stages.
• Manage project deliverables across all phases — from feasibility assessments through to detailed design and site support.
• Maintain compliance with applicable health, safety, quality, and environmental frameworks.
• Take part in technical reviews, design risk assessments, and structured safety analysis sessions (e.g., HAZOP, HAZID).
• Contribute to bid development and technical input during tender processes.

Candidate Profile

Mandatory Criteria:

• Must be located in the UK.
• Demonstrable track record delivering design work on Grid-related schemes.
• Minimum 10 years’ professional experience in electrical design for transmission and distribution networks.
• Chartered (or actively pursuing chartered status) through a recognised institution such as the IET.
• Strong grasp of UK power engineering standards including those issued by the ENA and Grid (e.g., TS 3.04, TS 2.10).
• Proficient in relevant design platforms such as AutoCAD, Bentley software, ETAP, or DigSILENT.

Desirable Attributes:

• Experience across all project stages, including installation and commissioning.
• Familiarity with grid compliance procedures and protection system coordination.
• Prior involvement in design audits, assurance, or senior review functions.
• Exposure to project delivery alongside EPC contractors or as part of multidisciplinary teams.

What’s in It for You

• Attractive remuneration package with annual performance-based reviews
• Flexible working arrangements tailored to your lifestyle
• Generous annual leave allowance
• Pension contributions, private medical cover, and life insurance
• Access to major UK energy infrastructure projects
• Supportive environment for continued professional growth

How to Apply:

If this role is of interest to you. Please click apply and provide your most up to date CV for consideration.

Disclaimer:

By submitting your resume to Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd, you acknowledge and agree to the following: Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd acts as an employment agency and will work to find suitable employment opportunities for you. We do not guarantee employment. You agree that all information submitted to Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd is accurate and truthful. You agree to hold Westwood Recruitment Solutions Ltd harmless for any liabilities arising from employment, and to treat all candidate data as confidential.