Technical Lead - Primary Design

ERSG Ltd; Liverpool; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm in Liverpool is seeking an experienced engineer to oversee substation primary plant and cable engineering activities. The role involves developing designs, managing project delivery, and ensuring compliance with industry standards. Candidates should have a strong background in electrical design and demonstrate leadership capabilities. This position offers competitive conditions in a dynamic environment focused on innovation and quality.

Benefits

Equal opportunities employer

Commitment to diversity and inclusion

Qualifications

• Experience in transformer and electrical system design, particularly in substation settings.
• Proficient in developing and reviewing technical documentation.
• Strong understanding of CDM2015 regulations related to electrical design.

Responsibilities

• Oversee primary plant and cable engineering activities.
• Develop primary plant designs including technical specifications.
• Manage project delivery and ensure milestones are met.

Skills

Project management

Analytical skills

Technical documentation

Design engineering

Leadership

Education

Degree in Engineering or related field

Tools

BIM software

Design calculation tools

Job description

Role Responsibilities

Oversee the delivery of substation primary plant and cable engineering activities, ensuring outputs meet agreed quality expectations, timescales, and commercial objectives.

Develop comprehensive primary plant designs, including layout development, equipment specifications, short‑circuit and cable system calculations, TMF assessments, and the selection and specification of auxiliary systems.

Apply an in‑depth understanding of earthing philosophy and system X / R characteristics to define suitable transformer neutral earthing resistor requirements.

Carry out transmission‑ and distribution‑level design tasks in alignment with relevant DNO and national transmission operator standards.

Undertake site‑based assessments and provide guidance on constructability considerations and installation constraints for project teams.

Take full responsibility for the technical integrity of primary designs, managing risks linked to design changes, safety, operational performance, and compliance with client and industry requirements.

Introduce and champion innovative approaches to complex design challenges and technical issues.

Provide leadership across all aspects of primary plant engineering, including transformers, GIS / AIS switchgear, busbar arrangements, GIB systems, cable terminations, and associated substation equipment at voltages up to 400 kV.

Use strong analytical capability and numerical proficiency to produce accurate and reliable primary design calculations.

Demonstrate a well‑rounded understanding of how primary plant design interacts with civil, structural, and overhead line components of substation projects.

Recognise and support opportunities for further business growth that emerge through ongoing project delivery.

Manage project delivery independently by ensuring design milestones are met, budgets are controlled, and deliverables are produced to the required standard.

Write clear and technically robust documentation, such as Basis of Design reports, design intent summaries, project execution plans, and contributions to BIM‑related documentation.

Work in accordance with all organisational safety, quality, and environmental processes as well as CDM2015 obligations.

Act as Principal Designer under CDM2015 for large‑scale substation electrical design projects, with a clear understanding of the statutory duties of all parties involved.

ersg are an equal opportunities employer; we are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all job applicants. We do not discriminate against applicants on the basis of age, sex, race, disability, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or religious background; all decisions are based on merit.