At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-profile projects in power and energy, focusing on substations and transmission systems.
- Company: Join Jacobs, a leader in innovative energy solutions with a commitment to inclusion.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive pay, flexible working, medical cover, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team shaping industry standards and best practices.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy while advancing your career in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and extensive HV substation engineering experience required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
We are seeking an Associate Director – Substations (Primary Design) to support a range of high-profile projects across the Power & Energy portfolio, including high voltage AIS and GIS Substations, transmission system assets, HVDC interconnectors, and energy storage systems.
Responsibilities
- Provide leadership on FEED and detailed design workstreams for National Grid and DNO clients
- Oversee quality assurance, resource planning, and capability development across multiple projects
- Lead technical reviews of HV plant aspects including layouts, earthing design and reports, mechanical interlocking, HV busbar calculations, and equipment specifications
- Coordinate with back-office engineers, sub-contractors, and suppliers to ensure seamless delivery
- Manage and contribute to tender packages, including technical and commercial submissions
- Chair design and hazard review meetings and ensure technical assurance of HV plant design
- Attend site visits, FAT and SAT as required
- Mentor senior engineers and contribute to succession planning and capability growth
- Maintain and grow client relationships, supporting strategic business development and market positioning
- Represent Jacobs in industry forums and contribute to shaping technical standards and best practices
Qualifications
- Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent
- Extensive experience in HV substation engineering (132kV–400kV), including AIS/GIS and HVDC systems
- Proven leadership in delivering complex, multi-disciplinary infrastructure projects
- Strong understanding of UK transmission and distribution standards and client expectations
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and team leadership skills
- Strategic thinking with commercial acumen and a track record of business development
Why Jacobs
Jacobs offers a competitive package and opportunities to work on impactful energy projects. We support flexible working arrangements and hybrid models where possible, and provide benefits including medical cover, parental leave pay, wellbeing and volunteering programs, and professional development support. We are committed to inclusion and belonging, with programs and networks to support diverse teams. Jacobs partners with external accessibility and inclusion initiatives to attract a wide range of talent.
Associate Director – Substations (Primary Design) - UK Grid Network in Manchester employer: Jacobs
Jacobs is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Manchester where innovation meets impact. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide extensive professional development support and flexible working arrangements, ensuring that our team members thrive both personally and professionally. Our inclusive culture fosters collaboration and diversity, making Jacobs a rewarding place to contribute to high-profile energy projects while building meaningful relationships within the industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director – Substations (Primary Design) - UK Grid Network in Manchester
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughJacobs's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through Jacobs's website for the full-time Associate Director – Substations (Primary Design) - UK Grid Network role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director – Substations (Primary Design) - UK Grid Network in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Jacobs. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of Jacobs.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to Jacobs.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
