Lead Protection & Control Engineer - Contract - Hybrid - Glasgow - Outside IR35
We're supporting a major engineering consultancy delivering large-scale substation upgrades, grid modernisation and digital substation programmes across Scotland and the wider UK. They're seeking an experienced Lead Protection & Control Engineer to take ownership of design governance, client engagement and technical assurance on multiple Transmission and Distribution workstreams.
This is a senior, highly influential contract position suited to a P&C specialist with a strong background working to UK utility standards.
What You'll Be Leading
* Own Protection & Control strategy and design direction across multiple HV substation projects (typically 132kV-400kV).
* Lead the production, review and approval of SLDs, KLDs, schematics, wiring diagrams, cable schedules and full secondary system design packs.
* Define protection philosophies, interface specifications and scheme designs to meet UK T&D standards.
* Provide technical leadership on IEC 61850 engineering: GOOSE messaging, station bus architecture, IED configuration and interoperability.
* Oversee relay/IED selection and configuration across major OEM platforms (Siemens, ABB, GE, SEL).
* Chair design reviews and lead client-facing sessions with key stakeholders.
* Guide project teams on design assurance, deliverables, FAT/SAT readiness and site integration considerations.
* Mentor other engineers and steer the overall quality and consistency of P&C outputs across the programme.
What We're Looking For
* Extensive experience as a Lead Protection & Control Engineer in the UK Transmission & Distribution sector.
* Strong working knowledge of SP Energy Networks, National Grid, SSEN or other DNO/PTO technical standards and governance processes.
* Deep understanding of protection schemes (distance, differential, transformer, feeder), secondary systems and CT/VT application.
* Hands-on IEC 61850 delivery experience - ideally including engineering, testing and system integration.
* Excellent communicator able to lead workshops, manage technical interfaces and influence design decisions.
Role details:
* Role: Lead Protection & Control Engineer
* Type: Contract (Outside IR35)
* Duration: 6-12 months
* Location: Hybrid - 3 days per week on-site in Glasgow
Apply now for the Lead Protection & Control Engineer role to speak with VIQU IT in confidence. Or reach out to Suzie Stone via the VIQU IT website.
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