About the Role
We are seeking an EC&I Hardware Designer to support the delivery of complex control and automation systems within the nuclear sector.
This role focuses on the design and development of control system hardware, including enclosures, panels, and interface systems. You will work as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team, contributing to high-quality, safety-critical projects from concept through to manufacture and installation.
Why This Role?
Work on safety-critical, high-integrity projects
Be involved in end-to-end hardware design, not just drawing updates
Collaborate with experienced engineers across electrical, control, and mechanical disciplines
Hybrid working with flexibility around office days and working hours
Opportunity to build experience within a highly regulated engineering environment
What You’ll Be Doing
• Design and develop electrical enclosures, control panels, and interface systems
• Produce detailed AutoCAD drawings and design packages
• Develop and manage:
o General Assemblies
o I/O schedules
o Cable calculations and routing
o Power load and heat calculations
Support design reviews, site visits, and engineering assessments
Work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are delivered to a high standard
Produce supporting documentation including:
o Test specifications
o Installation method statements
o Inspection reports
o Testing of manufactured equipment against drawings
o Quality records
Essential
Strong experience using AutoCAD for electrical design
EC&I hardware design experience within engineering projects
Experience designing control panels, MCCs, or electrical enclosures
Knowledge of IET Wiring Regulations and CDM Regulations
Understanding of cable routing, panel layouts, and system integration
Strong communication skills and ability to work within a project team
Desirable
Experience with PLC / HMI / SCADA systems
Experience in regulated industries (nuclear, defence, pharma)
Familiarity with functional safety standards (e.g. IEC 61508)
Knowledge of Sellafield standards
Qualifications
Degree / HNC (or equivalent experience) in Electrical / EC&I Engineering
Additional Information
Hybrid working (typically 2–3 days per week in the office, depending on project needs)
Flexible working hours to support work-life balance
UK travel required at key project stages (e.g. site visits and commissioning)
Security clearance: BPSS required (SC eligible)
Company information
At First Recruitment Group we understand just how important it is to secure the right people. That is why our Recruitment Consultants always take the time to understand requirements in detail and offer sound advice to both clients and candidates. We actively recruit at all levels and this is a superb opportunity for any Hardware Designer looking for new employment.
As part of putting people first, we strive to be an equal opportunities employer and we are always looking to increase the diversity of our workforce, working closely with our clients to ensure everyone is included