Job Description
Lead Civil Substation Designer – Electricity Transmission
Remote/Hybrid with site and office visits as required
Salary: £70,000 - £85,000 + Car/Car Allowance + Bonus + Benefits
I’m currently recruiting for a Lead Civil Substation Designer to join a growing team delivering complex substation and transmission infrastructure across the UK. This is a key role within the electricity transmission sector, supporting major 132kV–400kV National Grid projects. If you’ve worked as a CDAE or in a similar role on civil substation design, I’d like to hear from you.
The Role:
You’ll take a lead role in shaping design solutions across the full project lifecycle—from feasibility and tender through to construction support and commissioning. Your remit will include substation buildings, foundations, drainage, earthworks, and structural steel design. You'll advise on constructability, manage design interfaces, and collaborate with internal designers and external stakeholders to ensure safety, efficiency, and compliance with national and client-specific standards. You’ll also contribute to bid development, drive process improvement, and act as a mentor to junior engineers.
Key Responsibilities:
* Lead the design of civil elements across substation projects (including GIS buildings, concrete foundations, drainage, and steelwork)
* Act as a Contractor Design Approval Engineer (CDAE) or equivalent on National Grid projects
* Produce high-quality design documentation and ensure alignment with BS/Eurocodes and ENA standards
* Use tools such as STAAD Pro, Tekla Tedds, Tekla Structural Designer, Civil 3D, AutoCAD, and Revit
* Undertake 3D earthworks modelling, cut-and-fill assessments, and site layout planning
* Liaise with project managers, contractors, and multidisciplinary teams to deliver technically robust and constructible solutions
What You’ll Bring:
* Proven experience acting as CDAE or equivalent on electricity transmission projects
* Strong background in substation civil design (132kV–400kV preferred)
* Hands-on experience with design and analysis software including STAAD Pro, Tekla Tedds, Revit, AutoCAD, Civil 3D, and Tekla Structural Designer
* Understanding of CDM regulations and temporary works
* Ability to challenge design inputs and drive innovative, practical engineering solutions
* HNC/Degree in Civil or Structural Engineering
What’s on Offer:
* Competitive salary (DOE)
* Company car or car allowance (with EV/hybrid options)
* Private healthcare and healthcare cash plan
* Discretionary bonus scheme
* Matched or contributory pension
* 25 days holiday + bank holidays
* Life assurance and enhanced family leave
* Reward and recognition schemes
* Retail discounts, cycle to work, and employee wellbeing services
Why Apply?
This is a company that’s investing heavily in its people and its projects, offering long-term stability, development, and progression. You'll join a team that’s collaborative, forward-thinking, and genuinely committed to delivering essential infrastructure services that power homes, businesses, and communities.