Senior RTS Design Engineer

Are you a specialist in real time systems and operational communications for high‑voltage networks? Do you want to play a key role in designing the SCADA and communications infrastructure that enables safe, reliable operation of substations across the DNO network? We are seeking a Senior RTS Design Engineer to join our electrical design function, delivering Real Time Systems (RTS) and SCADA network designs for HV and EHV substation projects. This role spans feasibility through to commissioning support and handover, ensuring that all RTS solutions are robust, secure, and compliant with DNO standards.

As a senior technical authority within RTS, you will lead the design of SCADA architectures, RTU systems, substation LANs, and communications interfaces, working closely with primary electrical designers, protection engineers, IT/OT specialists, and the DNO design authority. Projects will typically cover 11kV to 132kV substations, including new builds, refurbishments, and extensions, incorporating modern digital substations, fibre‑based communications, and OTN connectivity.

• RTS & SCADA Design: Lead the development of real time systems designs, including SCADA architectures, RTU solutions, substation LANs, and communications topologies. Produce and review RTS design deliverables such as system architecture diagrams, communications topologies, LAN layouts, IED integration diagrams, and RTS design specifications. Define RTS requirements during early project stages and support feasibility and option selection.
• Standards & Compliance: Ensure all RTS designs comply with DNO policies, RTS standards, cyber and operational requirements, and project specifications. Interface with the DNO design authority to achieve timely approvals across all RTS submissions. Apply a consistent, auditable approach to design assurance and technical governance.
• Communications & OTN Interfaces: Design and coordinate RTS interfaces with operational telecommunications networks, including fibre, IP‑based communications, and OTN interfaces where applicable. Define requirements for data, protection, and control communications, ensuring resilience, redundancy, and operational security. Coordinate with telecoms and OT specialists to ensure end‑to‑end connectivity is achieved and documented.
• RTUs, Panels & Integration: Specify and integrate RTUs, control panels, communications equipment, DC supplies, and associated interfaces. Define I/O requirements, data mappings, and integration principles to support SCADA monitoring and control. Review and support configuration strategies to ensure consistency between design intent and deployed systems.
• Multi‑Disciplinary Coordination: Work collaboratively with primary electrical, protection, civil, and construction teams to deliver fully integrated substation designs. Provide RTS input to construction sequencing and commissioning strategies. Support technical queries during delivery and resolve RTS‑related design issues.
• Construction, Testing & Commissioning Support: Provide technical support during installation, testing, and commissioning of RTS equipment. Review test documentation, commissioning results, and as‑built information for RTS systems. Support system integration and handover to ensure RTS operates as intended within the wider network.
• Technical Leadership: Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior RTS engineers. Review third‑party RTS designs and deliverables produced by sub‑consultants. Contribute to continuous improvement of RTS design processes, standards, and templates.

• Degree (or equivalent) in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Communications, or a related discipline.
• Strong experience delivering RTS / SCADA designs for HV and EHV substations within a DNO or ICP environment.
• Proven background in substation communications, RTUs, SCADA integration, and operational networks.
• Experience working through full project lifecycles, from feasibility and detailed design to commissioning and handover.
• In‑depth understanding of Real Time Systems architectures in electrical substations.
• Strong knowledge of SCADA systems, RTUs, substation LANs, IP networking, and OTN interfaces.
• Ability to interpret and apply DNO RTS and telecommunications standards.
• Clear, confident communicator able to explain technically complex systems to non‑specialists.
• Strong attention to detail in producing and checking RTS drawings, specifications, and documentation.
• Able to work independently while contributing effectively within a multi‑disciplinary team.
• Well‑organised, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a delivery‑focused environment.