Lead Engineer - Protection and Control
Lead Engineer - Protection and Control

Lead Engineer - Protection and Control

Full-Time 60000 - 76000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead a team to design and deliver Protection & Control engineering solutions for major projects.
  • Company: Join SP Energy Networks, a leader in renewable energy and part of the Iberdrola Group.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, 36 days annual leave, and a competitive pension scheme.
  • Why this job: Be at the forefront of the UK's Net Zero ambition while developing your engineering skills.
  • Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent experience; ideally working towards Chartered Engineer status.
  • Other info: Diverse opportunities and a commitment to inclusion and personal development await you.

The predicted salary is between 60000 - 76000 £ per year.

Location: Edinburgh

Salary From £60,800 to £76,000 + benefits

Flexible Working Pattern, if relevant

Help us create a better future, quicker. SP Energy Networks (SPEN) will be delivering over £10 bn of investment in the GB electricity grid over the next 5 years, contributing to the UK's target of Net Zero. A major part of this is delivery of the EGL4 HVDC link in Joint Venture with National Grid.

Reporting to the Engineering Section Head, you will be responsible for developing and delivering Protection & Control engineering solutions, from feasibility to detailed engineering design of EGL4 project. To also provide the necessary basic and detailed engineering specifications and designs for project(s), innovation, effective technical support, advice, coaching and input throughout the lifecycle of a portfolio of other projects. Responsible for developing less experienced staff within the department or project team.

Leading the Protection & Control assessment of the contract bids for the EGL4 and other portfolio of projects and across all relevant network interfaces.

What you'll be doing:

  • Leading and managing a group of professional Design and Senior Design engineers for the engineering Design Delivery for Protection and Control for the HVDC converter station and its interfaces.
  • Assess engineering documentation, feasibility and compliance with client requirements and support the preparation of accurate budgets for new projects.
  • Responsible for preparing basic and detailed engineering specifications and designs for Substation Protection and Control systems.
  • Responsible for overseeing technical assessment of tender submissions and reporting recommendations.
  • Define Protection and Control apparatus requirements for input to System Construction Authorisation (SCA), Project Technical Specifications and BETTA documentation.
  • Co-ordinate the preparation/Review of substation protection and control drawings and specifications for construction/procurement.
  • Control of correspondence and drawings to be issued to the Project Development and Delivery Teams.
  • Ensure all substation designs and equipment are in accordance with current legislation, policies and operational requirements.
  • Provide technical support to the Project Development and Project Delivery teams on matters concerning the design, construction and operation of power systems substations and associated equipment.
  • Delegate the technical resolution of site/ construction main plant issues.
  • Lead and contribute to training needs assessment for new products or similar and the development and delivery of technical, operational and safety packages for such products.
  • Support Protection and Control Section Head in the development of national and international standards or other regulatory matters related to protection and control engineering.
  • Attend meetings and deputise for the Section Head as required including at senior industry and public consultations.
  • Act as the key technical interface with EPC and OEM contractors.
  • Lead on technical initiatives for new engineering opportunities.

There are many functions external to the job holder's teams that need to be effectively co-ordinated to deliver the work programme successfully. The job holder must be able to engage with fellow colleagues and senior managers around the Business and associated corporate functions to ensure that all of these functions are aligned.

What you'll bring:

  • A degree in Electrical Engineering discipline or equivalent experience, ideally be a Chartered Engineer or working towards to it.
  • Experience in engineering EPC environments for large strategic electrical infrastructure projects.
  • Proven experience in design of P&C equipment for HVDC and/or AC voltages up to 400kV.
  • Proven Protection, Substation and Network Control, Automation, Telecommunications and Metering Experience.
  • Ability to manage tasks and make decisions in uncertain and fast paced environment.
  • Experience in dynamic environments ensuring engineering output delivery.
  • Excellent presentation and persuasive skills.
  • Good interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to form effective working relationships with other individuals, departments and businesses.
  • Knowledge of Transmission Operator Networks health and safety and technical requirements and compliance.
  • Proven experience and knowledge of CDM regulations and Designer risk assessment.
  • Working knowledge or previous experience in use of multi discipline BIM.

What's in it for you:

As well as a competitive salary which is reviewed annually, you can also enjoy a number of other benefits. With our pension scheme, we'll double match your contribution up to a company contribution of 10%.

At ScottishPower, we believe it's the little things we do in life that make a big difference. From helping you look after your family's wellbeing, save for your future and take personal steps for climate action - our benefits are designed to help you do just that - so that you have everything you need to take care of your world - today and tomorrow.

That's why our benefits include:

  • 36 days annual leave
  • Holiday Purchase - perfect your work/life balance with extra annual leave
  • Share Schemes
  • Payroll Giving and Charity Matched Funding
  • Technology Vouchers - save more and spread the cost of your technology purchases
  • Electric Vehicle Schemes - to help you transition to green/clean driving
  • Cycle to Work scheme and Public Transport Season Ticket Loans
  • Healthcare benefit options including: Dental Insurance, Private Medical Insurance, Health Cash Plan and annual Health Assessments
  • Life Assurance (4x salary)
  • Access to Savesmart financial wellbeing support
  • Plus shopping, leisure, restaurant and gym discounts, and unique employee deals on travel insurance and more.

Why SP Energy Networks:

SP Energy Networks is part of the Iberdrola Group, one of the world's largest integrated utility companies and a world leader in wind energy. We keep electricity flowing to homes and businesses through Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales and in the North West of England. We operate over 4000km of cables and lines that make-up the transmission network - connecting infrastructure like wind farms into the electricity system. It's a role that puts us right at the heart of Scotland's ambition to be Net Zero by 2044. And we're taking it very seriously. We're investing >£5.5 billion into our transmission network, directly supporting the rapid growth needed in renewable energy.

With diverse opportunities across our businesses and a commitment to invest in our own internal talent, ScottishPower can offer people real career opportunities that meet personal and professional goals, in a global organisation.

Inclusion, diversity, and a social purpose are at the heart of everything we do. Together with our values, they bring us together into a stronger, more sustainable business with direct links to the communities we serve. It takes all kinds of people to build a large-scale business like ours, so whatever your background, you'll fit right in.

We are committed to providing reasonable support or adjustments in our recruiting processes for candidates with disabilities, long term conditions, mental health conditions, or who are neurodivergent or require pregnancy-related support. If you need support, please reach out to Mobility.

Please note that any applicant who is not a citizen of the country of the vacancy will be subject to compliance with the applicable immigration requirements to legally work in that country. If/when required, the Company will support the employee with the necessary Immigration requirements.

IMPORTANT: Advert will close at 23:59 GMT the day before Job Posting End Date below July-15-2025.

Lead Engineer - Protection and Control employer: Iberdrola

At SP Energy Networks, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the heart of Edinburgh. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive training opportunities and a supportive environment that values diversity and inclusion. Our competitive benefits package, including generous annual leave, healthcare options, and initiatives for sustainable living, ensures that our employees can thrive both personally and professionally while contributing to a greener future.
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Contact Detail:

Iberdrola Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Lead Engineer - Protection and Control

✨Tip Number 1

Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in Protection and Control engineering. This will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a fast-paced industry.

✨Tip Number 2

Network with professionals in the field, especially those who have experience with HVDC projects. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections that could provide insights or even referrals for the role.

✨Tip Number 3

Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to HVDC systems or substation design. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you contributed to successful outcomes.

✨Tip Number 4

Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any experience you have in mentoring or managing teams. Highlight how you've developed less experienced staff, as this is a key aspect of the Lead Engineer role.

We think you need these skills to ace Lead Engineer - Protection and Control

Electrical Engineering Degree
Chartered Engineer Status or Working Towards
Experience in EPC Environments
Design of Protection and Control Equipment for HVDC and AC Voltages
Knowledge of Substation and Network Control Systems
Automation and Telecommunications Experience
Strong Decision-Making Skills
Ability to Manage Tasks in Fast-Paced Environments
Excellent Presentation Skills
Interpersonal and Communication Skills
Knowledge of Health and Safety Regulations
Understanding of CDM Regulations and Risk Assessment
Experience with Multi-Discipline BIM
Technical Specification Development
Project Management Skills

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in Protection and Control engineering, particularly in HVDC systems. Use specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage complex projects.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the role and the company's mission towards Net Zero. Mention how your skills align with the job requirements and provide examples of your leadership in engineering projects.

Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree in Electrical Engineering and any relevant certifications, such as being a Chartered Engineer or working towards it. Emphasise your experience in EPC environments and your knowledge of CDM regulations.

Showcase Soft Skills: Don't forget to mention your interpersonal and communication skills. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with cross-functional teams and managed stakeholder relationships in previous roles.

How to prepare for a job interview at Iberdrola

✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise

As a Lead Engineer in Protection and Control, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of HVDC systems and substation design. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.

✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions

Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills in dynamic environments. Think of examples where you had to make quick decisions or manage tasks under pressure, and be ready to explain your thought process.

✨Highlight Leadership Experience

Since this role involves leading a team, emphasise your experience in managing engineers and developing less experienced staff. Share examples of how you've successfully guided teams through complex projects and fostered a collaborative environment.

✨Understand the Company’s Vision

Familiarise yourself with SP Energy Networks' commitment to Net Zero and their investment in renewable energy. Be ready to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their goals in the role.

Lead Engineer - Protection and Control
Iberdrola
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  • Lead Engineer - Protection and Control

    Full-Time
    60000 - 76000 £ / year (est.)

    Application deadline: 2027-07-15

  • I

    Iberdrola

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