I'm partnering with a long-established UK engineering company in the power systems sector to appoint a Technical Director specialising in high-voltage (HV) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) substation testing and commissioning.
Remember to check your CV before applying Also, ensure you read through all the requirements related to this role.
This is a senior leadership position acting as the technical authority across grid infrastructure projects, combining strategic oversight with deep, hands-on expertise. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping engineering standards, leading commissioning activities, and ensuring the successful delivery of complex AIS and GIS substation projects across transmission and distribution (T&D) networks.
Key responsibilities:
Technical Governance & Strategy
* Define and implement engineering strategies, protection philosophies, and commissioning procedures
* Ensure alignment with international standards and UK utility requirements (e.g. National Grid, SSE, Scottish Power)
* Act as the ultimate technical authority across HV/EHV projects
Project Oversight
* Provide leadership from FEED (Front End Engineering Design) through detailed design, construction, and final commissioning
* Oversee technical delivery across the full project lifecycle within transmission and distribution networks
Site & Commissioning Support
* Lead and support complex testing and commissioning activities on HV/EHV substations
* Resolve critical site issues, technical queries, and design deviations
* Provide expert input on AIS (Air Insulated Switchgear) and GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) systems
Quality & Safety Assurance
* Ensure all Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) meet stringent quality, safety, and environmental standards
* Champion a "safety in design" and commissioning culture across all projects
Leadership & Mentorship
* Mentor and develop engineering teams, including commissioning engineers and design staff
* Act as a subject matter expert in client and stakeholder engagements
* Drive continuous improvement in technical delivery and engineering excellence
Requirements:
* Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
* Extensive experience in HV/EHV substation design, testing, and commissioning within T&D environments
* Deep knowledge of:
* Protection & Control (P&C) systems
* Primary plant (transformers, switchgear, CTs/VTs)
* Secondary systems and substation automation
* Strong experience with AIS and GIS substations
* Proven ability to develop test procedures, analyse protection relay settings xxuwjjq, and lead commissioning teams on major infrastructure projects
* Demonstrated leadership experience in senior or principal engineering roles
Desirable:
* Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or equivalent
* Experience working with National Grid, SSE, Scottish Power, or similar utilities
* Familiarity with IEC standards and modern substation automation protocols (e.g. IEC 61850)
* Track record of leading large-scale or multi-site commissioning programmes
What's on offer:
* Executive-level technical leadership role within a specialist engineering business
* Opportunity to shape and influence delivery of critical UK energy infrastructure
* High-impact role combining strategy, leadership, and hands-on engineering
* Flexible working with site exposure across major grid projects
The salary is £80,000 to £100,000 plus car allowance and an annual bonus.