We are seeking a Design & Engineering Manager (EM) to lead the delivery of Offshore Substation Topside projects across concept, FEED and detailed design phases. This is a senior leadership role at the heart of offshore wind project execution, where you will drive engineering excellence, integration, and delivery performance for complex, multidisciplinary topside platforms. You will play a critical role in enabling the energy transition by leading the design and integration of HV substations offshore, ensuring safe, efficient, and buildable solutions aligned with client and project requirements.
Engineering Leadership & Delivery
Lead the end-to-end engineering delivery of offshore substation topsides (OSS), from concept through FEED to detailed design. Act as the single point of accountability for engineering scope, quality, and technical assurance. Manage and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams (structural, electrical, process, layout, safety, etc.). Ensure delivery in line with programme, budget, and project KPIs.
Topside Design & Integration
Oversee the design and integration of: Primary and secondary steel structures (deck, modules, support frames). HV/MV electrical equipment layouts and interfaces. Weight control and centre of gravity management. Lifting, transportation, and installation strategies. Drive modularisation strategies to optimise fabrication and offshore installation. Ensure alignment between topside, jacket/foundation, and export systems.
Technical Governance & Assurance
Maintain compliance with codes, standards (DNV, IEC, ISO) and project specifications. Lead design reviews, HAZIDs, HAZOPs, and constructability assessments. Ensure all engineering deliverables are checked, approved, and fit for purpose.
Stakeholder & Commercial Interface
Act as the primary engineering interface with clients, fabricators, certifying bodies, and installation contractors. Support procurement activities, including technical bid evaluations and vendor management. Contribute to commercial strategy, risk management, and change control.
Team Leadership & Capability Development
Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing engineering team. Promote a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Support development of digital engineering and advanced analysis capabilities.
Qualifications
You are a highly experienced offshore engineering leader with strong topside expertise and delivery mindset. Proven experience delivering Offshore Substation Topside (OSS) design within offshore wind projects. Strong background in structural engineering (primary or secondary steel for topsides or similar offshore facilities). Experience in multidisciplinary integration, especially structural‑electrical interfaces. Demonstrated experience leading FEED and detailed design phases. Strong knowledge of offshore design standards and regulatory frameworks. Experience with fabrication, transport & installation (T&I) considerations.
Technical Expertise
Deep understanding of structural systems for offshore platforms. Load cases including wave, wind, lifting, and transportation. Weight management and constructability. Familiarity with engineering tools such as: SESAM, SACS, STAAD, ANSYS. Understanding of HV substation systems integration is highly desirable.
Leadership & Professional Skills
Chartered Engineer (or equivalent) preferred. Strong leadership and team management experience. Excellent stakeholder communication and client-facing skills. Ability to operate effectively in complex, fast-paced project environments.
EEO & Inclusion
At AtkinsRéalis, we seek to hire individuals with diverse characteristics, backgrounds and perspectives. We strongly believe that world-class talent makes no distinctions based on gender, ethnic or national origin, sexual identity and orientation, age, religion or disability, but enriches itself through these differences.
Benefits
- Competitive salaries and employee rewards
- Flexible holiday allowances and hybrid working culture
- Opportunities for training and professional development
- Health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle benefits tailored to your needs
Offshore Substation Topside Layout Design Lead employer: AtkinsRéalis
AtkinsRéalis is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and development, particularly in the dynamic field of environmental consultancy. Located in London, our collaborative work culture fosters innovation and sustainability, providing team members with the opportunity to engage in meaningful projects while working alongside industry experts. We are committed to supporting your journey towards chartership and offer a range of benefits that enhance work-life balance and professional advancement.
