At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the commissioning of large-scale solar projects across the UK.
- Company: Join a leading renewable energy company focused on solar development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company van, and professional growth opportunities.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with travel opportunities and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the renewable energy sector while travelling and working flexibly.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical/Power Engineering or equivalent experience required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 55200 £ per year.
Astute's Renewables team is partnering with a UK based renewable energy company who specialises in the development, construction and operation of both Commercial and utility scale solar projects, to recruit a Commissioning Engineer to work flexibly hybrid on sites around the UK. The Commissioning Engineer role comes with a competitive salary depending on experience plus benefits package including car allowance. If you have experience as a Commissioning Engineer taking ownership of the commissioning process for large-scale Solar projects and are ready for your next career move, we'd love to hear from you, apply today by submitting your CV.
Responsibilities and Duties:
- Lead commissioning of utility-scale solar farms from initial testing to grid connection and handover.
- Operate and commission HV/LV switchgear, including circuit breakers, CT/VT measurements, and LV cold commissioning.
- Manage commissioning plans, schedules, and documentation to ensure full project and regulatory compliance.
- Perform G99/G100 testing and configure protection relays, including fault analysis and DNO approvals.
- Conduct point-to-point testing of control and communications cables and verify SCADA, metering, and comms systems.
- Review and support electrical designs, recommending improvements as needed.
- Coordinate testing and approvals with ICPs, DNOs, and grid operators.
- Maintain accurate commissioning records and ensure all work meets safety and industry standards.
Professional qualifications:
- Electrical or Power Engineering degree or HND, or equivalent hands-on experience.
- HV operational authorisation (SAP or AP level) preferred.
- Trained and certified in protection relay testing and configuration.
- Valid ECS/CSCS card and relevant HV/LV site authorisations.
- Proven experience commissioning utility-scale solar PV or large renewable energy projects.
- Strong understanding of HV systems up to 132kV, including protection, control, and switching operations.
- Experience with grid connection processes and liaising with DNOs and ICPs.
- Full UK driving licence.
Personal skills:
- Excellent communication skills combined with a hands-on, practical approach to problem solving.
- Willingness to travel frequently to sites around the UK and stay away when needed.
- Strong collaboration skills, able to work effectively with project engineers, ICP contractors, and local DNOs to ensure safe and timely project delivery.
Salary and benefits of the Commissioning Engineer role:
- Competitive salary + Company Van/Allowance
- Company Benefits including Income protection
- Company Laptop and Phone provided
- Professional growth support and development opportunities.
- Flexible and dynamic work environment with travel opportunities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Commissioning Engineer in Manchester
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughAstute People's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through Astute People's website for the full-time Commissioning Engineer role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Commissioning Engineer in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Astute People. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Astute People
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of Astute People.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to Astute People.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
