At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-profile overhead line projects and mentor a team of design engineers.
- Company: Join Jacobs, a leader in the global energy transition.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic work environment with a strong focus on safety and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy solutions while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Experience in OHL design and a degree in Engineering required.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
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.
- Preparing and reviewing proposals and reports detailing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations.
- Regularly engaging in client‑facing design reviews and technical workshops.
- Leading and mentoring a team of specialist design engineers working on overhead transmission line solutions.
- Identifying and managing project risks to ensure successful delivery.
- Promoting a strong safety culture.
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients to drive project success.
- Ensuring 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.
Qualifications
- Ensure that the drawings and specification documents contain sufficient, accurate information for construction of the works.
- 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.
As a disability confident employer, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for a vacancy. We welcome applications from candidates who are seeking flexible working and from those who may not meet all the listed requirements for a role.
Director Overhead Lines (OHL) employer: Jacobs
Jacobs is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration in the energy sector. With a strong commitment to employee development, we provide ample opportunities for growth and mentorship, particularly for those in leadership roles like the Director Overhead Lines. Our inclusive culture prioritises safety and sustainability, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in the transition to renewable energy across the UK and Continental Europe.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director Overhead Lines (OHL)
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know that can help land that dream job.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience with OHL design and the software tools mentioned in the job description. We want to see how you can bring your expertise to the table, so don’t hold back!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Familiarise yourself with Jacobs’ projects and values, especially in the Power & Energy sector. We recommend preparing some questions to ask about their approach to safety and sustainability – it shows you’re genuinely interested!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Let’s make it happen!
We think you need these skills to ace Director Overhead Lines (OHL)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in OHL design and project management. We want to see how your skills align with the specific responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:Don’t forget to mention your proficiency in software like PLS-CADD and AutoCAD. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve used these tools in past projects.
Highlight Leadership Experience:Since this role involves leading a team, share examples of how you've mentored or managed others in your previous roles. We love seeing candidates who can inspire and guide their teams to success.
Engage with Us:Feel free to reach out if you have any questions before applying! We encourage you to submit your application through our website, as it’s the best way for us to get to know you.
How to prepare for a job interview at Jacobs
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of OHL design, especially in the context of high voltage systems. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you used software like PLS-CADD or AutoCAD to create detailed engineering drawings.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director, you'll be leading a team of engineers. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, mentored junior staff, and navigated project challenges. Highlight your ability to foster a strong safety culture and build relationships with stakeholders.
✨Prepare for Client Engagement
Since client-facing design reviews are part of the role, think about how you can demonstrate your communication skills. Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms and be ready to discuss how you've handled client feedback in previous projects.
✨Understand Project Management
Familiarise yourself with project scope, timelines, and budgets. Be prepared to discuss how you've identified and managed project risks in the past. Showing that you can deliver under pressure while managing competing priorities will set you apart.
