Principal Electrical Engineer

Holt Engineering; East Knighton; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in the UK is seeking a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the design of complex electrical systems for advanced technology. The role combines technical leadership with hands-on engineering in a dynamic environment. Candidates should have a degree in electrical engineering and strong knowledge of electrical design principles and standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to work on innovative projects in both above and underwater systems.

Qualifications

• Degree-qualified Electrical Engineer or similar required.
• Strong understanding of electrical design principles and power distribution.
• Experience with electrical CAD tools is essential.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of electrical systems for engineering products.
• Define system architectures and power distribution strategies.
• Ensure designs meet regulatory standards including CE/UKCA.

Skills

Electrical design principles

Power distribution

System integration

Electrical CAD tools

CE/UKCA directives

Technical communication

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering or similar

Tools

Electrical CAD software

Job description

Overview

I'm supporting a well-established engineering business in Dorset who are looking to bring in a Principal Electrical Engineer to lead the design and integration of complex electrical systems used across advanced maritime and autonomous technology.

This is a technical leadership role with real variety — from distributed data acquisition systems and control solutions, through to electrical architectures for autonomous platforms and underwater systems. If you enjoy solving difficult engineering challenges and guiding a high-calibre team, this will be a great fit.

What you'll be doing

• Leading the design and development of electrical systems for complex engineering products
• Defining system architectures, component selections, power distribution schemes, and control strategies
• Producing and reviewing electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, cable assemblies, and design documentation
• Ensuring designs meet CE/UKCA, EMC, electrical safety and relevant regulatory standards
• Supporting system integration, testing, and commissioning activities
• Working closely with mechanical, software, and systems engineers to deliver fully integrated solutions
• Overseeing design reviews and ensuring technical accuracy across all outputs
• Mentoring and developing junior engineers to strengthen capability within the team
• Working with suppliers and customers to resolve technical challenges and ensure robust delivery

What I'm looking for

• Degree-qualified Electrical Engineer or similar
• Strong understanding of electrical design principles, power distribution, safety and system integration
• Experience working with electrical CAD tools
• Knowledge of CE/UKCA directives, EMC, electrical safety, and compliance requirements
• Ability to design for manufacturability, testability, and long-term reliability
• Familiarity with PLCs, motor control, industrial automation or maritime systems is a bonus
• Confident communicator with the ability to influence and lead technical discussions
• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities

Why this opportunity stands out

You’ll be involved in genuinely interesting engineering — systems that operate above and underwater, autonomous technologies, advanced control architectures, and high-integrity electrical design. The role mixes hands‑on technical work with leadership, innovation, and cross‑disciplinary collaboration.

How to Apply

Interested? I’d love to tell you more about this role — call Ian Broadhurst on (phone number removed) or drop me a message at (url removed)