Senior Electrical Design Engineer

Vallum Associates; Manchester; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An engineering firm in Manchester is seeking a Primary Substation Design professional to lead the design and delivery of high-voltage systems. This role entails developing substation layouts, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations. Candidates should possess a degree in Electrical or Power Engineering and have 3–7 years of relevant experience. Proficiency in CAD and knowledge of industry standards are essential. Occasional travel to client sites may be required.

Qualifications

• 3–7 years of experience in high-voltage or primary design engineering.
• In-depth knowledge of substation layouts and transmission systems.
• Awareness of international standards within the energy sector.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed design layouts for substations and transmission networks.
• Prepare and review drawings for electrical equipment.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for coordinated designs.
• Support project delivery through client meetings and site inspections.

Skills

High-voltage system design

Electrical calculations

Project delivery

CAD proficiency

Education

Degree in Electrical or Power Engineering

Tools

CAD

Job description

Overview

We are looking for an experienced Primary Substation Design professional with a background in power transmission and distribution projects to join our expanding engineering team. This position is based at our northern office and may require occasional travel to various client sites across multiple industries including energy, manufacturing, and industrial processing. The role involves leading the design and delivery of high‑voltage systems and substations, ensuring technical integrity, compliance, and cost efficiency.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop detailed physical design layouts for substations and transmission networks ranging from medium to extra‑high voltage levels (11 kV – 400 kV)
• Prepare and review drawings, schematics, and general arrangement plans for electrical equipment such as transformers, circuit breakers, and switchgear.
• Carry out calculations related to earthing, equipment sizing, and electrical clearances.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams across civil, structural, and protection disciplines to achieve coordinated designs.
• Contribute to the development of specifications, material lists, and construction documentation.
• Support project delivery through client meetings, site inspections, and technical assistance during installation and commissioning phases.
• Ensure all engineering activities align with industry codes, project standards, and regulatory obligations.
• Provide input into bids and proposals, offering technical expertise to support tendering activities.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree or equivalent qualification in Electrical or Power Engineering.
• Approximately 3–7 years of experience in high‑voltage or primary design engineering.
• In‑depth knowledge of substation layouts, transmission systems, and related electrical components.
• Competence in CAD or equivalent design tools.
• Awareness of international standards and best practices within the energy sector.