At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in utilities and energy economics, shaping the future of infrastructure.
- Company: Join Hoare Lea, a human-centric engineering consultancy committed to sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 25 days annual leave, private medical cover, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborate with diverse teams and engage in community-focused projects for maximum social impact.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy transition while developing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 2:1 degree or above, strong analytical skills, and experience in utilities or infrastructure.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
About us
Hoare Lea is a human-centric and planet-conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield. We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability to name but a few. Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem-solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves.
We are as committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential. So, in joining Hoare Lea, you will experience a business that enriches your knowledge, supports your wellbeing, and welcomes your individuality. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in our 9-day fortnight scheme, thriving community groups, varied social and networking events, and extensive professional and technical development schemes. We also offer an extensive benefits package, including private medical cover, an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, and 25 days of annual leave (increasing with service), alongside flexible and hybrid working.
Whatever your ambitions or circumstances, our aim is to enable everyone to develop their knowledge, give their best, and enjoy what they do.
About the team and role
We’re looking for a Principal Consultant to join our Advisory & Advocacy (A&A) team, at the forefront of utilities, infrastructure, and the UK’s energy transition. For over 150 years, we’ve shaped the built environment. Today, we’re redefining how it’s delivered and powered, where utilities and grid access are critical to success.
A&A operates at the earliest stages of large, multi-phase developments, helping clients unlock infrastructure strategies, secure capacity, and de-risk delivery in constrained systems. This role bridges utilities consultancy and grid strategy. You’ll understand connections, diversions (OHL, HP gas and more), and infrastructure delivery. You’ll know how to unlock solutions where standard approaches fall short. We work across the full lifecycle: moving, protecting, and enabling infrastructure, while coordinating across architects, engineers, and other key stakeholders. We sit at the centre of complex projects to keep everything aligned and moving.
Our work demands scale, experience, and creativity. From early strategy to delivery, you’ll shape outcomes where utilities are often the critical path.
The primary areas you would be working in within the Advisory and Advocacy team are:
- Utilities & Infrastructure - Our team combines deep technical expertise with strategic insight to support clients in securing timely, cost-effective, and futureproof connections. We specialise in interpreting complex utility requirements, identifying risks, and negotiating favourable terms—ensuring infrastructure supports both immediate delivery and long-term asset value.
- Energy Economics - Achieving Net Zero Carbon is intrinsically linked to an energy transition that, depending on your outlook, presents challenge and opportunity in equal measure. One of the key challenges being access to power.
- Grid Services - Supporting the transformation of the UK to an all electric nation, working in a challenging environment to get the best from our electrical network. Liaising closely with the network designers and managers to develop innovative strategies to obtain grid capacity where traditional approaches may fail.
Due to the nature of our large-scale infrastructure projects you would also likely work with the Societal Insights team. They draw on expertise in psychology and the social sciences to provide clients with the best-in-class community engagement and co-production. They also deploy specialist knowledge and experience to help projects realise maximum positive social impact and offer a suite of methodologies and tools to measure and monitor impact.
About you
To be successful in this role you will need:
- A 2:1 degree or above in a relevant subject, you will bring strong analytical thinking and an appetite for solving complex problems.
- Proactive and adaptable approach, with the resilience to navigate evolving project requirements and client needs.
- Enthusiastic about engaging with the challenges of decarbonisation, infrastructure delivery, and the transition to low-carbon energy.
- Proven experience in utilities, in a related infrastructure field, and/or grid codes and connection processes is required.
- Proficient in 2D/3D AutoCAD and or Revit.
- Proactive and independent.
- Experience in running projects both independently and in a team environment.
- Comfortable challenging the status quo and exploring innovative utility solutions for new connections and diversions.
- Happy to work across both EE and UI to help realise flexible new connections for electricity.
How to apply
To apply simply complete a CV profile and submit your application, or for further information please contact. If shortlisted, one of our recruitment team will be in touch to arrange an introductory call (about 30 minutes) to discuss the role and your experience in more detail. From there, successful candidates will be invited to attend a panel interview, either via Microsoft Teams or in person at one of our offices.
Adjustments and accommodations
If there are adjustments or accommodations that we can put in place to help you participate and give your best at any stage of the recruitment process (whether relating to disability, neurodivergence or anything else) please let us know.
Data privacy
We have updated our terms and conditions for candidates, click here to find out more.
Recruitment agencies
We have a Preferred Supplier List of trusted partners who assist us when required. We do not acknowledge speculative CVs or unsolicited candidate introductions from agencies not on the list.
Locations
Principal Consultant – Utilities and Energy Economics Services in Newport, Wales employer: Hoare Lea
Hoare Lea is an exceptional employer that prioritises the well-being and professional growth of its employees, offering a supportive work culture that values individuality and collaboration. With a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical cover and flexible working arrangements, alongside opportunities for participation in community groups and extensive development schemes, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles. Located in vibrant cities like London, Southwest, or Birmingham, Hoare Lea provides a dynamic environment where innovative solutions to energy and infrastructure challenges are at the forefront of its mission.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Consultant – Utilities and Energy Economics Services in Newport, Wales
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Hoare Lea and understand their projects, values, and the role you're applying for. Tailor your answers to show how your skills align with their mission of delivering sustainable solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples where you've tackled complex challenges in utilities or energy economics. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and adaptability.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're genuinely interested in joining our team at Hoare Lea.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Consultant – Utilities and Energy Economics Services in Newport, Wales
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that align with the Principal Consultant role. Highlight your analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities, especially in utilities and energy economics.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about decarbonisation and infrastructure delivery. Share specific examples of how you've tackled similar challenges in the past.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in 2D/3D AutoCAD or Revit. These technical skills are crucial for the role, so make them stand out in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands and shows us you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Hoare Lea
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of utilities, energy economics, and infrastructure delivery. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in decarbonisation and how they impact the industry. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare to discuss specific examples where you've tackled complex problems in previous roles. Think about times when you had to challenge the status quo or come up with innovative solutions for utility connections. This will demonstrate your analytical thinking and proactive approach.
✨Engage with the Team's Values
Hoare Lea values a human-centric and planet-conscious approach. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding sustainability and community engagement. Showing that you resonate with their mission can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Practice Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be liaising with various stakeholders, it's crucial to communicate clearly and effectively. Practice articulating your thoughts on complex topics in a straightforward manner. This will help you during the panel interview, whether it's in person or via Microsoft Teams.
