Director Overhead Lines (OHL)

At Jacobs, we are challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission‐critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery and cutting‐edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. Jacobs is playing a leading role in the global energy transition. As our UK and Continental Europe team continues to expand, we are seeking a Senior Associate Director Overhead Lines (OHL) to support a range of high‐profile projects across our Power & Energy portfolio. This includes high voltage AIS and GIS Substations, transmission system assets, HV Overhead Lines, HVDC interconnectors, and energy storage systems.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and design documentation using software tools such as PLS‐CADD, AutoCAD and Microstation.
• Manage and lead HV/EHV Overhead Line designs at all project stages.
• Prepare and review proposals and reports detailing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations.
• Regularly engage in client‐facing design reviews and technical workshops.
• Lead and mentor a team of specialist design engineers working on overhead transmission line solutions.
• Identify and manage project risks to ensure successful delivery.
• Promote a strong safety culture.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients to drive project success.
• Ensure all designs are appropriately reviewed and approved in line with best practice and by an appropriately qualified individual.
• Work with the resource manager to expand the team.
• Work with the existing team to improve/implement efficient design processes.
• Work with the wider team to ensure designs are sustainable and support environmental and planning aspects of the works.
• Deal with any issues arising from the construction teams.
• Ensure that the drawings and specification documents contain sufficient, accurate information for construction of the works.

What You’ll Need

• Proven experience in OHL design (132kV–400kV), ideally within UK transmission and distribution environments.
• Degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Civil or Electrical) or equivalent.
• Chartered Engineer (IET) or working towards chartership.
• Working as CDAE and TP141 authorisation.
• Familiarity with National Grid and DNO standards and processes.
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical workstreams and contribute to strategic project delivery.
• Proficient in industry‐standard software such as PLS‐CADD, PLS‐Tower, PLS‐Pole, and AutoDesk tools.

We value collaboration and believe that in‐person interactions are crucial for both our culture and client delivery. We empower employees with our hybrid working policy, allowing them to split their work week between Jacobs offices/projects and remote locations to deliver their best work.

As a disability‐confident employer, we will interview disabled candidates who best meet the criteria. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role. Your application experience is important to us, and we’re keen to adapt to make every interaction even better. If you require further support or reasonable adjustments with regards to the recruitment process (for example, you require the application form in a different format), please contact the team via Careers Support.