Principal Substation (Primary Design) Engineer - UK Grid Network
At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‑critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‑edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
Your Impact
Jacobs is playing a leading role in the global energy transition. As our UK and Continental Europe team continues to expand, we are seeking a Principal Primary Substation Engineer to support a range of high‑profile projects across our Power & Energy portfolio. This includes high voltage AIS and GIS Substations, transmission system assets, HVDC interconnectors, and energy storage systems.
Key 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 offersMaintain strong client relationships and support business development
Here’s 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 processesStrong 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. In addition to the benefits you’d expect, UK employees also receive free single medical cover and digital GP service, family‑friendly benefits such as enhanced parental leave pay and free membership of employee assistance and parental programmes, plus reimbursement towards relevant professional development and memberships.
We also give back to our communities through our Collectively program which incorporates matched‑funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations.
Work‑life balance and flexibility is a key focus area. We’re happy to discuss hybrid, part‑time and flexible working hours, patterns and locations to suit you and our business.
We value positive mental health and a sense of belonging for all employees. We embed inclusion and belonging in everything we do. We accept people for who they are, and we champion the richness of different perspectives, lived experiences and backgrounds in the workplace, as a source of learning and innovation.
As a disability confident employer, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimal criteria for a vacancy. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process, please contact the team via Careers Support.
#J-18808-Ljbffr