Lead Protection & Control Engineer – Contract – Hybrid – Glasgow – Outside IR35
We're supporting a major engineering consultancy delivering large-scale substation upgrades, grid modernisation and digital substation programmes across Scotland and the wider UK. They're seeking an experienced Lead Protection & Control Engineer to take ownership of design governance, client engagement and technical assurance on multiple Transmission and Distribution workstreams.
This is a senior, highly influential contract position suited to a P&C specialist with a strong background working to UK utility standards.
What You'll Be Leading
Own Protection & Control strategy and design direction across multiple HV substation projects (typically 132kV–400kV).
Lead the production, review and approval of SLDs, KLDs, schematics, wiring diagrams, cable schedules and full secondary system design packs.
Define protection philosophies, interface specifications and scheme designs to meet UK T&D standards.
Provide technical leadership on IEC 61850 engineering: GOOSE messaging, station bus architecture, IED configuration and interoperability.
Oversee relay/IED selection and configuration across major OEM platforms (Siemens, ABB, GE, SEL).
Chair design reviews and lead client-facing sessions with key stakeholders.
Guide project teams on design assurance, deliverables, FAT/SAT readiness and site integration considerations.
Mentor other engineers and steer the overall quality and consistency of P&C outputs across the programme.
What We're Looking For
Extensive experience as a Lead Protection & Control Engineer in the UK Transmission & Distribution sector.
Strong working knowledge of SP Energy Networks, National Grid, SSEN or other DNO/PTO technical standards and governance processes.
Deep understanding of protection schemes (distance, differential, transformer, feeder), secondary systems and CT/VT application.
Hands-on IEC 61850 delivery experience — ideally including engineering, testing and system integration.
Excellent communicator able to lead workshops, manage technical interfaces and influence design decisions.
Role details:
Role: Lead Protection & Control Engineer
Type: Contract (Outside IR35)
Duration: 6–12 months
Location: Hybrid – 3 days per week on-site in Glasgow
Apply now for the Lead Protection & Control Engineer role to speak with VIQU IT in confidence. Or reach out to Suzie Stone via the VIQU IT website.
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