At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering on major power substation projects and mentor a team of engineers.
- Company: Join Laing O'Rourke, a leader in innovative construction and engineering.
- Benefits: Long-term stability, clear career progression, and a supportive culture focused on safety.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of the UK's power infrastructure and drive innovation in construction.
- Qualifications: Experience in civil or structural engineering with a passion for digital innovation.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: High Marnham UK (Near Lincoln) – Project-based with further national opportunities
Sector: Power / Major Infrastructure
Type: Full-time, Permanent
Be part of one of the largest upgrades to the UK power network in decades. This is a career-defining opportunity to shape complex power infrastructure while influencing engineering standards, innovation and delivery excellence across major projects.
What is a Principal Engineer? Think number 2 on a project at delivery stage. You are the go-to subject matter expert for all Civils and Structural deliverables. You look after a team of Project, Senior, Section and Site Engineers, sitting with the senior leaders on the project.
We are looking for an experienced Principal Engineer to provide technical leadership on high-value substation projects, supporting delivery teams from early design through construction and commissioning.
The role:
- You will act as a recognised technical authority, working closely with project leadership, design managers, clients and supply chain partners.
- You will guide engineering decisions, ensure buildability and safety are embedded in designs, and influence quality standards across permanent and temporary works.
- You will support delivery of substation civil and structural works including foundations, structures, steelwork, cladding and associated non-HV mechanical and electrical interfaces, while helping drive innovation, digital engineering and continuous improvement.
Key responsibilities:
- You will provide technical leadership across engineering methods, procedures and standards, ensuring they are fit for complex project environments.
- You will collaborate with design teams to resolve interface issues, challenge solutions constructively and improve buildability, safety and efficiency.
- You will influence quality processes at project and business level, supporting audits, specifications and right-first-time delivery.
- You will contribute expert input into construction methods, materials, products and systems, identifying opportunities for value engineering, innovation and waste reduction.
- You will support the safe selection and implementation of temporary works, lifting operations and specialist construction systems.
- You will also play an active role in developing and mentoring engineers, sharing best practice and contributing to technical guidance and training.
What we're looking for:
- You will have strong experience in civil or structural engineering within major infrastructure or power environments, with confidence operating as a technical authority on complex projects.
- You will bring experience of influencing engineering delivery, strong construction and temporary works knowledge, a quality-focused mindset, and the ability to collaborate effectively with designers, clients and subcontractors.
- A passion for innovation, digital engineering and continuous improvement is essential.
- A relevant engineering qualification is required, supported by strong practical experience.
- Chartership or progress toward chartership is desirable.
Why join us?
You’ll work on nationally significant power infrastructure with long-term stability and clear progression. You’ll have real influence over how projects are engineered and delivered, within a supportive, forward-thinking culture focused on safety, sustainability and professional development. This is a chance to work with Laing O'Rourke and drive innovation to push construction into a new era and way of working. Utilise the latest digital techniques and DFMA methods to enhance and future proof your career. The project is based at High Marnham near Lincoln. It offers long term career prospects in one of the UK's largest and fastest growing sectors.
Lead Power Substation Engineering & Delivery employer: Laing O'Rourke
Join a forward-thinking company that is at the forefront of the UK's power infrastructure upgrades, offering you the chance to influence engineering standards and drive innovation in a supportive work culture. With a focus on safety, sustainability, and professional development, you'll have access to long-term career prospects and opportunities for mentorship and growth in one of the fastest-growing sectors. Located in High Marnham near Lincoln, this role provides a unique opportunity to shape complex projects while utilising the latest digital techniques and methods.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Power Substation Engineering & Delivery
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and recent developments in the power sector. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your responses. Focus on articulating your experience in civil and structural engineering, especially in major infrastructure projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Power Substation Engineering & Delivery
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the job description. Highlight your technical leadership in civil or structural engineering, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've worked on!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about power infrastructure and how your experience aligns with our goals at StudySmarter. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements:When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your ability to influence engineering delivery and drive innovation. Numbers and outcomes speak volumes, so don’t hold back!
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Laing O'Rourke
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your civil and structural engineering knowledge, especially in relation to power infrastructure. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how you've influenced engineering delivery.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Engineer, you'll be leading a team. Highlight your experience in mentoring and guiding engineers. Share examples of how you've resolved conflicts or improved team performance in past projects.
✨Emphasise Innovation and Improvement
This role is all about driving innovation and continuous improvement. Come ready with ideas on how to enhance buildability, safety, and efficiency in engineering processes. Discuss any digital techniques or value engineering methods you've implemented.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions that assess your problem-solving skills and knowledge of construction methods. Practice articulating your thought process clearly and confidently, as this will demonstrate your expertise and authority in the field.
