Principal Design Engineer

JR United Kingdom; Slough; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global consultancy and engineering firm is seeking a Principal Electrical Design Engineer to lead complex projects within the Transmission & Distribution team in the UK. This role requires 10+ years of experience in electrical design, especially with National Grid-related schemes. The firm offers a competitive salary, flexible working arrangements, and support for professional growth.

Benefits

Attractive remuneration package

Flexible working arrangements

Generous annual leave allowance

Pension contributions

Private medical cover

Life insurance

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years of professional experience in electrical design.
• Strong grasp of UK power engineering standards.
• Experience across all project stages, including installation and commissioning.

Responsibilities

• Lead complex electrical design projects ensuring compliance.
• Develop and review technical outputs like cable routing plans.
• Serve as a senior technical authority and guide engineering teams.

Skills

High Voltage (HV/EHV) Cable Systems

Substation Engineering (AIS/GIS)

AutoCAD proficiency

Bentley software proficiency

ETAP proficiency

DigSILENT proficiency

Education

Chartered Engineer status

Degree in Electrical Engineering

Job description

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Position Title: Principal 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 National Grid frameworks.

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

• High Voltage (HV/EHV) Cable Systems
• 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 National 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 National Grid (e.g., TS 3.04, TS 2.10).
• Proficient in relevant design platforms such as AutoCAD, Bentley software, ETAP, or DigSILENT.
• Experience across all project stages, including installation and commissioning.
• Familiarity with grid compliance procedures and protection system coordination.
• 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.