Job ref: 260909Location: Manchester, Greater Manchester, EnglandContract: PermanentSalary: 60,000 - 80,000 per yearSector: ["Power", "Nuclear and Utilities"]Posted: 2026-09-02
Job Purpose
The Primary / HV Plant Design Engineer is responsible for the design, engineering, and technical delivery of high-voltage substation plant systems for transmission and distribution projects. The role involves developing compliant designs in accordance with National Grid standards, particularly SR188 (Substation Layout Design Guidance), ensuring safe, reliable, and cost-effective solutions for new-build, refurbishment, and extension projects.
Key Responsibilities
- Design & Engineering
- Produce HV substation plant designs for transmission voltage levels up to 400kV.
- Develop substation layouts in compliance with National Grid SR188 requirements.
- Prepare and review:
- General arrangement drawings
- Substation layouts
- Equipment installation drawings
- Electrical clearance studies
- Earthing layouts
- Busbar arrangements
- Cable routing drawings
- Design layouts for AIS and GIS substations.
- Ensure plant designs comply with:
- National Grid Technical Specifications
- Electricity Transmission standards IEC, BS EN, and industry regulations
- CDM Regulations
- Technical Leadership
- Provide technical guidance to engineers and designers.
- Participate in design reviews, HAZID, HAZOP, and constructability assessments.
- Resolve technical queries during engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning phases.
- Review vendor drawings and equipment data for compliance.
- Project Delivery
- Support project teams through FEED, detailed design, construction, and commissioning stages.
- Coordinate multidisciplinary engineering interfaces (Civil, Protection & Control, Mechanical, and Primary Design).
- Ensure deliverables are completed on time, within budget, and to required quality standards.
- Stakeholder Management
- Liaise with National Grid, DNOs, consultants, contractors, and equipment manufacturers.
- Attend technical meetings and client design review workshops.
- Support project approvals and design submissions.
Essential Qualifications
- Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent engineering discipline.
- Membership of a professional institution (IET preferred).
- Working towards or holding Chartered Engineer (CEng) status.
Essential Experience
- Significant experience in HV substation primary plant design.
- Proven experience on National Grid transmission projects.
- Strong knowledge and practical application of National Grid SR188 Substation Layout Design Guidance.
- Experience designing substations within 132kV 275kV 400kV transmission networks.
- Experience with AIS and GIS substations.
- Familiarity with National Grid design standards and policies.
- Experience reviewing supplier and contractor designs.
Technical Skills
- National Grid Standards SR188 Substation Layout Design Engineering
- Technical Specifications (ETS) National Grid Transmission procedures
- Electrical safety clearances and insulation coordination
- Design Knowledge Primary plant design
- Busbar configurations
- Switchgear layouts
- Power transformers
- Reactors CTs, VTs, CVTs
- Disconnectors and circuit breakers
- Surge arresters
- Earthing systems
- Software AutoCAD MicroStation (preferred)
- Autodesk products CYMCAP (desirable)
- CDEGS (desirable)
- MS Office Suite
Key Competencies
Strong analytical and engineering problem-solving skills. Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities. Ability to work independently and lead technical work packages. Strong understanding of safety-by-design principles. Attention to detail and commitment to engineering quality.
Desirable Experience
- National Grid EPC or framework projects.
- Offshore or renewable grid connection projects.
- Protection and Control interface knowledge.
- BIM and digital engineering experience.
- Experience supporting construction and commissioning activities.
Typical Deliverables
- Substation General Arrangement Drawings
- SR188-Compliant Layouts
- Equipment Clearance Studies
- Earthing Layouts
- Design Risk Assessments
- Technical Specifications
- Bill of Materials
- Design Reports
- Construction Support Documentation
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Primary / HV Plant Design Engineer in Manchester employer: The Abbey
At dentsu Optimisation Manchester, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture. Our team-oriented environment encourages professional growth through continuous training and development opportunities, ensuring that every employee can thrive in their role. Located in the vibrant Bonded Warehouse, we offer unique advantages such as a dynamic workspace and access to cutting-edge resources, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment in the field of CRO.
