Principal engineer overhead lines (ohl)

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.

Principal Engineer – OHL – Role Overview

We are seeking a Principal Engineer – OHL to support a range of high‑profile projects across our Power & Energy portfolio, including high‑voltage AIS and GIS substations, transmission system assets, HV overhead lines, HVDC interconnectors, and energy storage systems.

Main Responsibilities

• Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and design documentation using software tools such as PLS‑CADD, AutoCAD and Microstation.
• Oversee technical activities, line routing, sag‑tension calculations, structure analysis, conductor selection, clearance reports, and design documentation.
• Prepare and review proposals and reports detailing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations.
• Regularly engage in client‑facing design reviews and technical workshops.
• Lead and mentor a team of specialist design engineers working on overhead transmission line solutions.
• Identify and manage project risks to ensure successful delivery.
• Promote a strong safety culture.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients to drive project success.

Key Qualifications

• Proven experience in OHL design (132kV–400kV), ideally within UK transmission and distribution environments.
• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in electrical engineering.
• Familiarity with National Grid and DNO standards and processes.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical workstreams and contribute to strategic project delivery.
• Proficiency in industry‑standard software such as PLS‑CADD, PLS‑Tower, PLS‑Pole, and AutoDesk tools.

EEO and Accessibility

We value collaboration and believe that in‑person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations enabling them to deliver their best work.

As a disability confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.

Benefits and Culture

With safety and flexibility always top of mind, we’ve gone beyond traditional ways of working so you have the support, means and space to maximise your potential. You’ll uncover flexible working arrangements, benefits, and opportunities, from well‑being benefits to our global giving and volunteering programme, to exploring new and inventive ways to help our clients make the world a better place. We aim to embed inclusion and belonging in everything we do and champion the richness of different perspectives, lived experiences and backgrounds in the workplace.