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- Tasks: Lead innovative HV/EHV cable system projects and ensure technical excellence.
- Company: Join AECOM, a global leader in infrastructure consulting.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid working, career development, and personalised benefits.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the energy transition and shape the grid of tomorrow.
- Qualifications: Experience in HV/EHV cable design and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team with excellent growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
At AECOM, we’re delivering a better world. Whether improving your commute, keeping the lights on, providing access to clean water, or transforming skylines, our work helps people and communities thrive. We are the world’s trusted infrastructure consulting firm, partnering with clients to solve the world’s most complex challenges and build legacies for future generations.
We are seeking a Principal Cable System Design Engineer to join our expanding Transmission & Distribution (T&D) team within AECOM. This is a senior role within the business, with responsibility for driving technical excellence, leading complex projects, and supporting strategic client engagement across a broad portfolio of high-voltage infrastructure schemes.
As a Principal Engineer, you will play a critical role in the planning, design, and delivery of cable systems across multiple voltage levels. Our clients include Transmission System Operators, Distribution Network Operators, private developers, and international energy majors across the UK and globally.
You will lead multidisciplinary project teams, act as a trusted advisor to clients, and contribute to developing our technical standards, innovation strategy, and digital delivery approach within the cable engineering space.
Here’s what you will do:
- Lead the technical delivery of large-scale HV/EHV cable system projects from concept to completion, ensuring quality, safety, and innovation throughout the lifecycle.
- Develop and oversee HV cable system designs, including routing, burial risk assessments, thermal, electromagnetic, and mechanical performance modelling.
- Provide expert-level input into cable system ratings, installation methodologies, jointing arrangements, cleating design, and system integration in challenging environments.
- Guide and validate complex calculations including ampacity, short circuit forces, EMC, induced voltages, and thermomechanical forces to meet compliance with National Grid TPs, IEC, and CIGRÉ standards.
- Lead client and stakeholder engagement, providing technical assurance, strategic direction, and value-engineered solutions on high-profile infrastructure programmes.
- Manage coordination between disciplines, including civil, structural, OHL, substation, and marine engineering inputs, to ensure cohesive and integrated design solutions.
- Drive project execution, managing technical risks, interfaces, and quality reviews while supporting procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.
- Conduct 3rd-party inspections, FAT/SAT witnessing and vendor oversight for cable and ancillary equipment.
- Champion mentorship, knowledge-sharing, and technical development within the wider team, supporting capability growth in cable systems engineering.
- Support business development activities, including proposals, bid reviews, and client presentations.
Here’s what we’re looking for:
- Demonstrated experience as a technical leader in HV/EHV cable system design.
- Proven track record in design, specification, and installation of complex cable systems including tunnel, urban, and constrained environments.
- In-depth understanding of international and UK-specific standards, particularly National Grid TPs, IEC, and CIGRÉ guidelines.
- Experience working in regulated, quality-assured environments—preferably with National Grid, SSE, EirGrid, or equivalent TSO/DNOs.
- Strong ability to coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams and engage with senior stakeholders across the project lifecycle.
- Excellent communication, client-facing, and team leadership/mentorship skills.
- Commitment to fostering innovation, digital delivery, and sustainability in design.
Desirable Certifications & Qualifications:
- Degree-qualified in Electrical Engineering or related field; MSc/MEng advantageous.
- Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or working towards.
- National Grid CDAE certification or similar.
- Experience with cable system software (e.g., CYMCAP, WinCable) and advanced analysis tools.
We celebrate diversity, including neurodiversity, and believe it enriches our team. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and abilities. If you are an applicant with a disability that requires reasonable accommodation to complete the application process, please contact us.
At AECOM, we value everyone's unique contributions and perspectives. If you meet some of the requirements above or have transferable skills you believe would benefit us, we would be delighted to hear from you!
Principal Cable System Design Engineer in Edinburgh employer: AECOM
Contact Detail:
AECOM Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Cable System Design Engineer in Edinburgh
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching AECOM and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for their mission to deliver a better world and how your skills align with their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience in HV/EHV cable system design clearly and confidently. Highlight specific projects where you’ve led teams or solved complex problems.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after interviews! A quick thank-you email can keep you top of mind and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why you’d be a perfect fit for AECOM.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Cable System Design Engineer in Edinburgh
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Cable System Design Engineer role. Highlight your experience in HV/EHV cable system design and any relevant projects you've led. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about this role and how you can contribute to our team. Be sure to mention any specific projects or experiences that relate to the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Expertise: In your application, don't shy away from showcasing your technical skills. Mention your familiarity with standards like National Grid TPs, IEC, and CIGRÉ, as well as any software tools you’ve used. We love seeing candidates who are technically savvy!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of being noticed. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes directly to our recruitment team. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at AECOM
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of HV/EHV cable systems and the relevant standards like National Grid TPs, IEC, and CIGRÉ. Be ready to discuss your past projects and how you've tackled complex challenges in cable system design.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Engineer, you'll be leading multidisciplinary teams. Prepare examples that highlight your experience in managing teams, engaging with clients, and driving project success. Think about times when you’ve had to coordinate between different engineering disciplines.
✨Engage with Enthusiasm
AECOM values innovation and collaboration, so show your passion for the industry! Be prepared to discuss your ideas for improving cable system designs and how you can contribute to their mission of delivering a better world.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about AECOM's projects, culture, and future direction. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals and values.
