Role: Lead Control Engineer / Network Manager - Network Operations
Salary: Up to £90,000
Location: London, Hybrid
Role type: Full-time
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Lead Control Engineer / Senior Authorised Person (SAP) to take a key role in the safe and efficient operation of LV, HV and EHV distribution networks across the UK.
This is a senior technical leadership role, responsible for overseeing control room operations, network switching, and safety from a control perspective, ensuring all work is delivered in accordance with Distribution Safety Rules and company operational standards.
You will provide expert guidance on network operation, fault response, and SCADA systems. The role will also contribute to developing operational procedures, control strategies, and network management systems to support a growing national network business.
Key Responsibilities
Network Operations & Control
* Lead day-to-day network control activities, ensuring all operational switching and control operations are carried out safely and efficiently.
* Act as Senior Authorised Person (SAP) for the company, issuing and receiving safety documents in accordance with Distribution Safety Rules.
* Oversee the coordination of planned and unplanned network operations, including isolations, energisations, and fault restorations.
* Manage and mentor Control Engineers and Technicians to maintain 24/7 operational capability.
* Ensure real-time system monitoring and fault response through SCADA and Distribution Management Systems.
Safety, Compliance & Assurance
* Ensure all operations are conducted in compliance with the Electricity Safety, Quality and Continuity Regulations (ESQCR), Health & Safety at Work Act, and Distribution Safety Rules.
* Support and manage investigations into incidents, faults, and non-conformances.
* Maintain and develop safety management systems and technical procedures related to network control.
* Produce technical and safety bulletins, network instructions, and operational guidance documentation.
Network Performance & Systems
* Support the development and implementation of network control and automation strategies.
* Contribute to the development and configuration of SCADA and telemetry systems, ensuring operational integrity and cyber security compliance.
* Analyse system performance data to identify operational risks and recommend improvements in network reliability and resilience.
* Manage and maintain Distribution Information and Notification System (DINS) processes for operational communication and regulatory reporting.
Stakeholder Engagement
* Liaise with Independent Connection Providers (ICPs), customers, and service partners to ensure safe and compliant asset operation.
* Support coordination with Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) during inter-network operations or shared boundary management.
* Provide expert input during design, commissioning, and energisation of new connections.
Leadership & Development
* Lead and develop a high-performing team of Control Engineers, ensuring consistent application of operational standards.
* Deliver technical mentoring, authorisation assessments, and ongoing training for operational personnel.
* Support operational resource planning and contribute to business continuity and resilience planning.
Skills and Qualifications
Essential:
* Extensive experience working in an electrical distribution control environment (DNO, IDNO, or private network operator).
* Current or recent Senior Authorised Person (SAP) status up to 33kV (ideally to 132kV).
* Proven experience in network control, switching, and operational safety management.
* Strong understanding of Distribution Safety Rules, operational documentation, and electrical safety governance.
* Practical knowledge of SCADA, DMS, and network automation systems.
* Excellent communication, analytical, and decision-making skills.
Desirable:
* Degree or HNC/HND in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience).
* Chartered Engineer or working toward professional registration.
* Experience of leading a control or operations team within a regulated network environment.
* Familiarity with ISO systems (9001, 14001, 45001) and asset management principles (ISO 55001).
* Full UK driving licence.
Key Attributes
* Calm and decisive under pressure, particularly during faults or operational incidents.
* Strong leadership and mentoring capability.
* Excellent attention to detail with a focus on safety and reliability.
* Adaptable to evolving technologies and regulatory change.
* Collaborative communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders.