Primary Substation Design engineer

As a Primary Substation Design Engineer, working as part of a growing design team, you will be responsible for the detailed design and technical delivery of high-voltage (HV) primary substation projects, typically ranging from 11kV to 132kV. This includes development of designs from concept through to detailed design, ensuring compliance with industry standards, client specifications, and health & safety regulations.

• Produce and review primary substation layout drawings, equipment specifications, and detailed design packages.
• Deliver designs in line with client standards & specifications. This will include DNO, IDNO & Private network customers.
• Prepare feasibility studies, technical reports, and design risk assessments.
• Coordinate with Civil, Protection & Control, M&E and SCADA design teams to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Support procurement by developing technical specifications and reviewing vendor documents.
• Support estimating by assessing & reviewing tenders. This will include assessing required deliverables & hours required.
• Liaise with clients, project managers, site engineers, and manufacturers to resolve technical queries.
• Ensure all designs meet CDM 2015 regulations and project health & safety requirements.
• Attend and contribute to design review meetings, site surveys, and factory acceptance tests (FATs).
•  Strong understanding of HV substation components (e.g., transformers, switchgear, busbars, earth systems).
• Knowledge of BS EN, IEC, ENA, and DNO design standards.
• Previous experience in designing AIS and/or GIS substations at 33kV to 132kV.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical single line diagrams (SLDs) and general arrangement drawings.
• Experience working in a multi-disciplinary engineering environment.
• Good knowledge of earthing & bonding principles in substation environments.
• Good knowledge of underground cable selection, de-rating calculations & installation methodology.
• Understanding of M&E design requirements in a substation environment.
• Experience of working in a live substation environment.
• Familiarity with substation automation systems, protection philosophies, and interfacing with secondary systems.
• Understanding of environmental and planning considerations in substation projects

• Bachelor’s degree or HND in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems or a related field.
• Professional engineering status (or working towards) such as chartered engineer would be of benefit but is not essential.
• CSCS or EUSR certification would be beneficial, but not essential (Training can be provided)

• Experience in the use of Autocad &/or other similar CAD software.
• Knowledge of BS 7671.
• Knowledge of commercial/contractual issues.
• Good written, verbal communication & interpersonal skills.
• Good personal management, decision making & problem-solving skills.
• Good computer literacy, including use of Microsoft office-based applications (e.g. word, excel & outlook).
• Full UK driving licence.