At a Glance
- Tasks: Design and analyse high-voltage substations and renewable energy projects.
- Company: Cundall, a global engineering consultancy with a focus on sustainable design.
- Benefits: Flexible working, professional development, and a collaborative environment.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace encouraging applications from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Join a team shaping the future of energy systems and tackle exciting challenges.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; 2-4 years experience in power systems.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
Cundall is a global engineering consultancy known for innovative and sustainable design across energy, infrastructure and the built environment. With a 50-year history, 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, power system studies and technical advisory services, delivering technically demanding projects in the UK and internationally.
We are looking for a Power Systems Engineer with a developing background in high-voltage power engineering. The role is intentionally broad and will provide exposure across our three core technical strands: primary substation design, protection and control, and power system studies. You may already have stronger experience in one of these areas. We do not expect an engineer at this stage to be a specialist in all three. You will work across different project types and technical workstreams, with the opportunity over time to develop deeper expertise in the areas that best align with your strengths, interests and project needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Contribute to the design and delivery of HV/MV substations, grid connections, BESS, renewable energy and critical-infrastructure projects.
- Support primary design activities such as SLDs, substation layouts, plant selection, specifications and design calculations.
- Support P&C activities such as protection philosophies, schematics, interfaces, equipment schedules and design reviews, appropriate to experience.
- Undertake or support power system studies using recognised analysis tools, appropriate to experience and project needs.
- Prepare technical reports, calculations, specifications, drawings and other design documentation.
- Coordinate with colleagues across primary, P&C, studies, civil, structural, building services and digital delivery teams.
- Attend client, utility, contractor and project meetings and contribute to resolving technical queries.
- Participate in site surveys and design reviews and manage assigned work packages to agreed quality and programme requirements.
QualificationsEssential Experience and Capabilities
- Degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering or a related discipline.
- Typically 2–4 years’ relevant post-graduate experience in power systems, electricity networks, substations, renewables, an OEM, EPC contractor or a related engineering environment.
- Practical experience in at least one of the following: primary substation design; P&C / secondary design; or power system studies.
- A good grounding in electrical power engineering and an interest in developing broader knowledge across the complete power system.
- Ability to produce clear engineering calculations, drawings, reports or specifications relevant to current experience.
- Good communication, problem-solving and collaborative working skills.
Desirable Experience
- Experience of HV systems at 33kV or above.
- Exposure to UK DNO/TO requirements, grid connections or utility projects.
- Experience with relevant engineering tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, DIgSILENT PowerFactory, ETAP or equivalent, depending on technical background.
- Experience of BESS, renewables, data centres or other critical infrastructure.
- Progress towards professional registration or an interest in working towards Chartered Engineer status.
What Success Looks Like
- Assigned design and study work is accurate, coordinated and delivered to programme.
- The engineer develops broader understanding across primary design, P&C and studies while building depth in a chosen area.
- Technical queries and multidisciplinary interfaces are identified and resolved collaboratively.
- Clients and colleagues receive clear, responsive and well-structured technical input.
Work on technically challenging power and grid infrastructure projects. Develop Cundall’s growing substation design capability while working alongside specialists in primary design, P&C and studies. Work within an integrated multidisciplinary consultancy across energy, BESS, data centres and critical infrastructure. Access flexible working arrangements and structured professional development.
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.
Substation Design Engineer – Primary / HV Plant in Manchester employer: Cundall
Cundall is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Bristol where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of our mission. Our collaborative culture fosters professional growth through skill development and training opportunities, ensuring that every team member can contribute to exciting local and international projects while working towards our goal of Zero Carbon Design by 2030. Join us to be part of a diverse team that values creativity and inclusivity, making a meaningful impact in the built environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Substation Design Engineer – Primary / HV Plant in Manchester
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Substation Design Engineer – Primary / HV Plant role you’re after at Cundall.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Cundall a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Cundall.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Substation Design Engineer – Primary / HV Plant at Cundall, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Substation Design Engineer – Primary / HV Plant in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Substation Design Engineer – Primary / HV Plant, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Cundall a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Cundall specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cundall
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Cundall, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Cundall want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
