Controls Hardware Engineer in Stafford

The successful candidate will be part of a highly motivated, dynamic team of engineers working on the delivery and application engineering of existing and new Controls engineering applications, focusing on the design of Control and Protection functions for LCC and VSC HVDC schemes, particularly for HVDC converters and the forthcoming “HVDC Grid”. This is a very exciting and dynamic field of power engineering in which GE’s leading contribution has worldwide recognition. The role of Controls Hardware Engineer gives an excellent opportunity for a motivated candidate to expand their design skills and personal development within an internationally recognised company in this exciting field. The role has some autonomy but is focused on execution of activities within an operating discipline covered by standard functional practices and procedures. Some judgment may be required but this is typically with guidance.

Role Responsibilities

• Support the design, development, and testing of Control & Protection hardware systems for HVDC applications.
• Produce and maintain engineering documentation including schematics, wiring diagrams, interconnection drawings, and test records.
• Assist with component selection, hardware verification, and qualification testing activities.
• Support laboratory testing, fault investigation, and analysis of hardware and system-level issues.
• Participate in Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and other verification activities to ensure compliance with technical requirements.
• Support maintenance, updates, and lifecycle management activities for existing Control & Protection products and equipment.
• Contribute to technical problem-solving and root cause analysis activities using structured engineering methods.
• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary engineering teams including hardware, software, systems, and commissioning engineers.
• Ensure work is completed safely, accurately, and in accordance with project quality and EHS requirements.
• Support continuous improvement activities within the laboratory and engineering environment.

Skills and Experience

• Understanding of Control & Protection hardware systems and associated electrical engineering principles.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, and technical drawings.
• Familiarity with panel wiring, interconnections, and low-voltage power distribution.
• Awareness of industrial communication protocols and standards including IEC 61850.
• Familiarity with protection relays, SCADA systems, RTUs, and industrial automation equipment.
• Knowledge of component-level testing, fault finding, and basic hardware troubleshooting techniques.
• Understanding of engineering documentation, technical specifications, and reporting practices.
• Aware of cybersecurity principles within industrial control systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary engineering team.
• Good communication and organisational skills with the ability to work to deadlines.

Desirable Experience

• Experience within HVDC, power transmission, substations, or industrial control systems environments.
• Experience working in a laboratory, test, or development environment.
• Familiarity with IEC and IEEE standards relevant to Control & Protection systems.
• Exposure to Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT), hardware validation, or commissioning activities.
• Experience supporting legacy product updates, obsolescence management, or lifecycle support activities.
• Aware of structured problem-solving methodologies such as 8D or Root Cause Analysis (RCA).
• Basic understanding of power system protection principles and fault analysis.