Grid & Primary Design Manager

Electricity North West Construction & Maintenance Limited (ENWCML) is the specialist engineering arm of the Electricity North West Group. We deliver high and low voltage infrastructure services across the UK, operating independently from the regulated network business. Our expertise spans the design, construction, operation, and maintenance of private electrical networks for commercial and industrial clients. With a growing national footprint and a reputation for technical excellence, ENWCML plays a vital role in supporting the UK’s energy transition and infrastructure resilience.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Grid & Primary Design Engineer to join our team and work client-side on critical grid and primary substation projects. You’ll take ownership from initial concept and feasibility through to procurement, construction, and commissioning, ensuring delivery of high-quality solutions for private networks.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all aspects of design from outline to detail across the project lifecycle.
• Develop and approve designs for 33kV up to 132kV Grid and Primary substations.
• Sign off protection studies, block cable diagrams, set files, and key line diagrams.
• Oversee compliance with specifications and approve pre-manufacturing drawings.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, Construction Managers, and Design Teams to meet programme objectives on time, within budget, and to the highest quality.
• Manage third-party design inputs and ensure alignment with company processes.
• Provide accurate project information and maintain flexibility to adapt to change.
• Travel to UK sites for meetings when required.

What we’re looking for

• HNC or higher in a relevant subject.
• Proven expertise in primary substation design (11kV–132kV) in a lead role.
• Knowledge of Power Transformer design and procurement.
• Strong understanding of electrical engineering design and distribution networks.
• Experience with CDM regulations for utility projects.
• Hands-on experience in planning, design, and commissioning of 132kV substation projects.
• Proficiency in ETAP, DigSilent, or similar software.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel.

What we’re offering

• Competitive salary + annual bonus scheme.
• 25 days annual leave (increasing with service).
• Company vehicle.
• Private healthcare.
• Employee rewards portal with discounts on top brands.
• Market-leading contributory pension scheme.
• Access to professional development through our L&D function.
• Employee assistance programme.

Our Commitment to Inclusion

We’re proud to foster a workplace where everyone can thrive. We celebrate diversity and are committed to building a team that reflects the communities we serve. We believe that embracing our differences makes us stronger.

Should you require any additional support with your application, or any adjustments please contact our Recruitment team at careers@enwl.co.uk or on 0845 366 0092 (option 2).

Any offer made will remain conditional until pre-employment checks are complete to a level deemed satisfactory by Electricity North West. Due to the nature of this role, the following pre-employment checks will be required; references from previous employers, a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and a Drug & Alcohol test.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early. We don’t accept speculative CVs from agencies. Any received we will assert ownership of the candidate and no fee will be payable.