Senior/Principal Secondary Design Engineer – UK

Be an Expert in Secondary Substation Design

Are you an experienced Electrical Design Engineer with expertise in substation secondary design, including protection and control systems? We are looking for a Senior/Principal Engineer to lead detailed design projects supporting the energy transition and net-zero goals.

About Cundall

Cundall is a global engineering consultancy renowned for its innovative and sustainable design solutions across energy, infrastructure, and the built environment. With a history spanning over four decades, we deliver projects that shape the future of energy systems, from grid transmission and distribution to renewable energy and critical infrastructure.

Our Power Systems team specialises in high-voltage design, protection and control systems, and technical advisory services, delivering cutting-edge solutions for some of the most challenging and prestigious projects in the UK and internationally.

The Role

As a Senior/Principal Secondary Design Engineer, you will lead the design and delivery of protection and control systems, working on projects from concept through detailed design to final commissioning. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, you will design and integrate control and protection schemes for AIS/GIS substations from 33kV to 400kV.

You will act as a technical authority on secondary design, mentor junior engineers, and support clients to deliver robust, compliant, and innovative solutions.

Responsibilities

• Lead and produce designs for secondary systems including protection, control, and SCADA schemes.
• Develop AC/DC schematics, cable schedules, and termination diagrams.
• Produce high-level specifications for protection, control, and SCADA systems, ensuring compliance with UK DNO/TO standards (e.g., National Grid, SSEN).
• Define protection philosophies, including relay settings and system integration for substation projects.
• Oversee and review technical deliverables to ensure designs are safe, compliant, and aligned with client requirements.
• Work with AutoCAD, or equivalent tools to produce detailed schematics and layouts.
• Support the integration of protection and control systems with primary plant design.
• Perform site visits to assess constructability and facilitate smooth project execution.
• Collaborate across disciplines, including civil, structural, and primary plant teams, to deliver fully integrated solutions.
• Develop and maintain relationships with clients, contractors, and suppliers.
• Provide leadership in mentoring and coaching junior engineers.
• Ensure health and safety risks are identified and managed in compliance with CDM regulations.

Key Deliverables

• Detailed Secondary Design Documentation: Deliver comprehensive technical reports, schematics, and protection coordination studies.
• Protection and Control Systems: Develop designs suitable for projects from 33kV to 400kV, including offshore and transmission systems.
• Site Surveys and Constructability: Assess feasibility and address site-specific challenges to ensure successful delivery.

Essential Skills

• Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field.
• Chartered Engineer status (or working towards).
• Experience in secondary substation design for AIS/GIS systems up to 400kV.
• Proficiency in developing protection philosophies, relay settings, and SCADA integration.
• Knowledge of UK DNO/TO standards, including National Grid and SSEN requirements.
• Experience in producing AC/DC schematics, termination schedules, and system integration designs.

Desirable Skills

• Experience with IEC 61850 communication protocols and advanced SCADA systems.
• Proficiency with tools AutoCAD, or similar design software.
• Experience in renewable energy projects such as BESS and offshore wind.
• Familiarity with fault analysis and protection simulation software (e.g., ASPEN, DIgSILENT).
• Scripting knowledge (e.g., Python) for automation of design processes.

Why Join Us?

• Work on prestigious substation projects in the UK and globally.
• Be part of a collaborative team delivering innovation and excellence.
• Enjoy flexible working arrangements and professional development opportunities.
• Play a vital role in supporting the energy transition and net-zero ambitions.

Apply Today!

Take the next step in your career by joining Cundall’s Power Systems team. Apply now to lead the way in designing world-class energy systems.

Job Description

Why Join Cundall?

We know that to be the best at what we do we need a diverse workforce underpinned by an inclusive culture. Creating environments where everyone can find joy doing their best work is also great for everyone. That’s why we positively welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and identities, and encourage, support, and celebrate the diverse voices of our people.

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