At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead EC&I design on exciting energy and nuclear projects from concept to delivery.
- Company: Join a major engineering client focused on innovative energy solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, flexible hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy future while collaborating with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical/Control/Instrumentation Engineering and 15+ years of relevant experience required.
- Other info: This role is outside IR35, offering a unique contract opportunity.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 84000 £ per year.
Location: Manchester (Hybrid – 2/3 days in office with dynamic working)
Contract Type: Contract (Outside IR35 pending Determination)
Sector: Nuclear or Defence
We’re working with a major engineering client in the Energy and Nuclear sectors to recruit a Senior & Principal EC&I Design Engineer to support multi-disciplinary project delivery across high-profile programmes including brownfield oil & gas assets, hydrogen production/storage, and major nuclear infrastructure.
This is a brilliant opportunity to lead EC&I design on projects from concept through to FEED and EPCm, while developing and mentoring a growing team within a supportive, technically strong environment. Senior EC&I Engineers who are ready to step up into a lead role are also encouraged to apply with development plans tailored to support your transition.
The Role: As Senior / Principal EC&I Design Engineer, you’ll be the primary discipline lead on projects, responsible for technical delivery, coordination, and design integrity. You’ll work across the full lifecycle of control, instrumentation and electrical systems in regulated environments, with a strong focus on quality, compliance and safety.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead EC&I technical delivery across multiple projects and work phases (concept/FEED/EPCm)
- Prepare, check and approve engineering documentation, including datasheets, specifications, wiring diagrams and cable schedules
- Mentor junior engineers and support their development
- Produce material and equipment requisitions for field instrumentation, control panels, safety systems, analyser packages, etc.
- Develop installation scopes of work and interface with suppliers and vendors
- Contribute to functional safety assessments and SIL determinations
- Support cyber security assessments and development of safety cases
- Ensure compliance with all relevant national and international standards, ATEX/DSEAR regulations, and client specifications
- Review supplier quotes and support bid assessments
Technical Expertise (Required):
- Full life-cycle design (hardware and software) of EC&I systems
- Specification and qualification of PLCs, SCADA, SMART devices and field instrumentation
- Understanding of Functional Safety and Cyber Security (IEC 61508 / 61511)
- EC&I installation practices in potentially explosive or high-hazard areas
- Working knowledge of UK regulations, CDM 2015, and hazardous area classifications (ATEX, IECEx)
Required Experience:
- Degree in Electrical / Control / Instrumentation Engineering (or related discipline)
- Chartered or Incorporated Engineer (or working towards)
- 15+ years' experience in EC&I design across Nuclear, Oil & Gas, Water, or Energy projects
- Strong understanding of design working practices, site installation, and verification
- Experience working in client-facing environments across multi-discipline projects
- Up-to-date with UK and international codes and standards
- Familiarity with delivering under highly regulated conditions and quality systems
Why Apply?
This is a great opportunity to join a business delivering technically complex, meaningful work in support of the UK’s energy future. You’ll work on a varied project pipeline, enjoy hybrid working flexibility, and be part of a collaborative team that supports development and innovation at every level.
Senior/ Principal EC&I Engineer (Outside of scope of IR35 pending determination) employer: Scantec
Contact Detail:
Scantec Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/ Principal EC&I Engineer (Outside of scope of IR35 pending determination)
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the Energy and Nuclear sectors. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to connect with potential colleagues and employers. This can help you gain insights into the company culture and current projects, making you a more informed candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest technologies and regulations in EC&I design, especially those related to functional safety and cyber security. Being well-versed in these areas will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving field.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in leading multi-disciplinary projects. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed technical delivery and mentored junior engineers, as this aligns closely with the responsibilities of the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the company’s recent projects and initiatives in the nuclear and defence sectors. Understanding their current focus areas will allow you to tailor your discussions during interviews, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/ Principal EC&I Engineer (Outside of scope of IR35 pending determination)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in EC&I design, particularly in the Energy, Nuclear, or Defence sectors. Emphasise your technical expertise and any leadership roles you've held.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the key responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description. Mention your experience with full life-cycle design and your understanding of compliance and safety standards.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: In your application, clearly outline your technical skills related to PLCs, SCADA, and functional safety. Provide examples of projects where you have successfully led EC&I design and mentored junior engineers.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Ensure you mention your degree in Electrical/Control/Instrumentation Engineering and any professional qualifications, such as being a Chartered Engineer. This will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your readiness for a senior role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scantec
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your experience with EC&I systems in detail. Highlight specific projects where you led technical delivery, focusing on your role in the design and implementation phases. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
✨Emphasise Leadership and Mentoring Skills
Since the role involves mentoring junior engineers, share examples of how you've supported team development in the past. Discuss any leadership roles you've taken on and how you've contributed to a collaborative work environment.
✨Understand Regulatory Standards
Familiarise yourself with relevant UK regulations and international standards mentioned in the job description, such as ATEX and IEC 61508. Be ready to discuss how you've ensured compliance in previous projects, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Prepare Questions for the Interviewers
Think of insightful questions to ask about the company's projects, team dynamics, and future challenges in the energy sector. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.