At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex grid and substation projects across Europe, shaping power strategies.
- Company: Specialist energy and digital infrastructure advisory practice with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, dynamic work environment, and opportunities for international exposure.
- Other info: Join a lean, high-calibre team with genuine autonomy and excellent career growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the energy sector while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering and experience in data centre electrical design required.
The predicted salary is between 56250 - 68750 £ per year.
Datacenter People are currently supporting a specialist energy & digital infrastructure advisory practice in the appointment of a Principal Power Systems Engineer to help lead complex grid and substation mandates across Europe and wider international markets.
This is not a traditional consultancy design role.
The business operates at the intersection of
- Grid intelligence & TSO/DSO engagement
- HV substation strategy (11-132k V+)
- Private wire & connection optimisation
- Renewable PPAs & commercial energy modelling
- Hyperscale data centre power strategy
They advise on multi-GW infrastructure developments and support clients from early feasibility and connection strategy through to RIBA Stage 2 design oversight, tender management and energisation.
- Why This Role Stands Out…
- Operates upstream - shaping power strategy, not just delivering drawings
- Direct engagement with hyperscalers, developers and infrastructure investors
- Multi-country exposure across Europe & international markets
- Influence across grid, generation, storage and PPA structures
- Lean, high-calibre technical team with genuine autonomy
This is particularly well suited to engineers currently within utilities, EPCs, data centre design teams or HV contractors who want to step into a more strategic, system-level advisory position.
What the Job Involves...
- Review and assessment of both DSO and TSO electricity grids across Europe to identify optimal connection opportunities (mostly demand focused)
- Advise on appropriate grid connections based on end Client requirements
- Make grid applications and manage the grid connection process on behalf of clients from application stage through to energisation
- Advise on DSO and TSO tariff structures in European markets. Advise on electricity prices including negotiation of PPAs
- Production of RIBA Workstage 2 substation design packages which shall include integration with identified temporary power opportunities
- Technical and commercial input to development (Data Centre and Energy Centre) master planning, including generation, storage, and site wide energy distribution considerations
- Tender for delivery of substation infrastructures. Review and recommend preferred bidders to end Client based on technical and/or commercial tender return assessment
- Review of substation delivery partners designs in accordance with RIBA Workstage 2
- Complete power strategy reviews for clients depending on their DC requirements (based on country, voltage level, required dates, revenue mechanisms, end customer requirements)
- Design reviews against Hyperscaler specifications and sustainability and ESG targets
- Client and workload management to anticipate bottlenecks and manage internal and external risks
We're Looking for Someone Who...
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, from an accredited university or college
- Good level of experience in data centre electrical design and/or construction required
- Knowledge of UK/EU substation design practices/principles
- Experience of running tenders for HV Substations including scoring and review of tender returns (Technical and Commercial)
- Experience of management and technical review of HV delivery contractors during the design (RIBA stages 3/4) and delivery (RIBA stages 5/6/7) project phases
- Knowledge of HV Substation Testing and Commissioning
- Strong working knowledge of HV distribution systems and alternative power generation technologies
- Technical report writing
- Knowledge of Revit, Auto CAD, MS Office, BIM
- Awareness and Experience of Generation (engine and or turbine) selection and delivery
- Project Management
- Contracts management (FIDIC and NEC as a minimum)
We regret that due to the high volume of applications we are unable to acknowledge each one.
Please bear in mind that if you are selected for interview we will contact you within the next seven days.
Principal Engineer - Power Systems in Warrington employer: Datacenter People
Join a dynamic and innovative team at one of Europe's leading data center developers, where your expertise will directly contribute to the growth of cutting-edge facilities. With a flexible part-time contract, you will enjoy a supportive work culture that prioritises employee development and offers unique opportunities for professional growth in a rapidly evolving industry. Experience the advantage of working in a collaborative environment that values your contributions and fosters a strong sense of community.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer - Power Systems in Warrington
✨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 Principal Engineer - Power Systems role you’re after at Datacenter People.
✨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 Datacenter People 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 Datacenter People.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Principal Engineer - Power Systems at Datacenter People, 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 Principal Engineer - Power Systems in Warrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Engineer - Power Systems, 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 Datacenter People 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 Datacenter People 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 Datacenter People
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Datacenter People, 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 Datacenter People 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.