Principal Substation (Primary Design) Engineer - UK Grid Network

Jacobs Technology Inc.; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering firm based in Leeds is seeking a Principal Substation Engineer for its UK Grid Network. The ideal candidate will lead design workstreams for National Grid and DNO clients, ensure quality and timely delivery, and provide technical leadership. Strong experience in HV substation design and a degree in Electrical Engineering are required. The company offers a competitive package, including medical cover and flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Medical cover

Digital GP service

Parental leave pay

Professional development reimbursement

Volunteering programs

Qualifications

• Proven experience in HV substation design (132kV–400kV), ideally in UK transmission and distribution.
• Familiarity with National Grid and DNO standards and processes.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical workstreams.

Responsibilities

• Lead FEED and detailed design workstreams for National Grid and DNO clients.
• Ensure quality assurance and timely delivery of design packages and bids.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior engineers.

Skills

HV substation design

Electrical Engineering

Communication skills

Stakeholder engagement

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent

Job description

Overview

Principal Substation (Primary Design) Engineer - UK Grid Network at Jacobs

Responsibilities

• Lead FEED and detailed design workstreams for National Grid and DNO clients
• Ensure quality assurance and timely delivery of design packages and bids
• Review HV plant aspects including layouts, earthing, interlocking, busbar calculations, and specifications
• Coordinate with back-office engineers, suppliers, and subcontractors
• Attend and contribute to design reviews, hazard reviews, FAT and SAT
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior engineers
• Support tendering activities and contribute to technical offers
• Maintain strong client relationships and support business development

What you’ll need

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
• Proven experience in HV substation design (132kV–400kV), ideally within UK transmission and distribution environments
• Familiarity with National Grid and DNO standards and processes
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical workstreams and contribute to strategic project delivery

Why Jacobs?

People are Jacobs’ greatest asset, and we offer a competitive package to retain and attract the best talent. UK employees also receive benefits such as medical cover, digital GP service, parental leave pay, employee assistance programs, professional development reimbursement, and community support through our Collectively program including matched funding and volunteering. We support work-life balance with hybrid, part-time and flexible working options where possible.

We’re committed to inclusion and belonging, with programs and employee networks to support diverse perspectives. Jacobs partners with VERCIDA to attract talent from diverse backgrounds. We are proud to be a disability-confident employer and welcome applications from candidates seeking flexible working arrangements.

Other details

• Seniority level: Not Applicable
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Design, Art/Creative, and IT
• Industries: Civil Engineering, Design Services, and IT Services and IT Consulting