At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the design of high-voltage substations and mentor junior engineers.
- Company: Global engineering consultancy with a focus on renewable energy and infrastructure.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and impactful projects.
- Other info: On-site role in Manchester, offering excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and shape the future of energy solutions.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in power systems engineering and leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
A global engineering and consulting organisation with a long-standing heritage in delivering technical advisory, design, and assurance services across the renewable energy and infrastructure sectors. They support developers, utilities, investors, and lenders through the full project lifecycle—ranging from early‑stage feasibility through to detailed design, construction, and commissioning.
This is a senior‑level role focused on the design of high‑voltage substations and power systems, working across a diverse portfolio of UK and international renewable energy, infrastructure, and utility projects. You will play a key part in delivering technically robust solutions while mentoring junior engineers and contributing to complex, multi‑disciplinary projects.
Please note: This role requires on‑site attendance in Manchester at least 3 days per week and candidates must already hold full UK right to work.
Key Responsibilities- Lead and deliver electro‑mechanical design of substations across distribution, transmission, and industrial networks.
- Manage a team of consultants.
- Produce and review primary substation designs, including layouts and single‑line diagrams.
- Design and specify Protection & Control systems, including SCADA interfaces.
- Undertake CT/VT selection and system calculations.
- Design auxiliary AC/DC power systems.
- Ensure designs comply with UK legislation, safety requirements, and industry standards.
- Collaborate with multi‑disciplinary internal teams and external stakeholders.
- Support and mentor graduate and junior engineers.
- Contribute to technical reports, client documentation, and design reviews.
- 8+ years experience in Transmission & Distribution engineering (or 7+ years with MSc / PhD in Electrical Engineering or similar).
- Minimum of 2 years of leadership experience, with at least 7 direct reports.
- Strong power systems design experience up to 132 kV (experience to 400 kV highly desirable).
- Proven background in utility‑scale substation engineering.
- In‑depth understanding of UK electrical engineering standards and regulations.
- Experience delivering engineering solutions across industrial, distribution, and transmission networks.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Professional registration (e.g. IEng, or working towards).
- Formal Health & Safety qualifications (IOSH, NEBOSH, NVQ, etc.).
- Substation safety & access training (e.g. NSI 30, BESC / AIM).
- Knowledge of CDM 2015 and construction safety.
- Prior involvement in installation and commissioning activities.
- Exposure to technical consultancy or business development support.
Full UK working rights required – no sponsorship available.
Principal Engineer in Bolton employer: JD Ross Energy
As a global engineering and consulting organisation, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture that empowers our employees to excel in their careers. Located in Manchester, our team enjoys the unique advantage of working on impactful renewable energy projects while benefiting from flexible working arrangements and opportunities for professional development. Join us to be part of a supportive environment where your expertise will shape the future of sustainable infrastructure.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer in Bolton
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the industry! Attend events, join 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 in power systems design and leadership. Share specific examples of projects you've worked on and how you’ve mentored others. We want to see your passion and expertise shine through!
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before interviews! Research the company’s recent projects and challenges in the renewable energy sector. We recommend preparing thoughtful questions to ask them too—this shows you’re genuinely interested and engaged.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly 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 that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer in Bolton
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your power systems design experience and leadership roles to show us you’re the right fit for this Principal Engineer position.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about renewable energy and how your background aligns with our projects. Don’t forget to mention any relevant certifications or qualifications that make you stand out.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to detail your experience with high-voltage substations and any specific software or tools you’ve used. We want to see how you can contribute to our team’s success in delivering robust engineering solutions.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at JD Ross Energy
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of high-voltage substations and power systems. Be ready to discuss your experience with designs, layouts, and single-line diagrams. The more specific examples you can provide from your past projects, the better!
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves managing a team, be prepared to talk about your leadership style and experiences. Think of instances where you've mentored junior engineers or led a project. Highlight how you foster collaboration and support within your team.
✨Understand the Regulations
Familiarise yourself with UK electrical engineering standards and safety requirements. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in your previous roles. This shows that you not only design well but also prioritise safety and regulations.
✨Communicate Clearly
Excellent communication skills are key for this position. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Whether it's discussing technical reports or client documentation, being able to convey complex ideas simply will set you apart.
