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- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of advanced control systems for smart grid applications.
- Company: Join UK Networks Services, a leader in the UK's energy transition.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus scheme, enhanced pension, and 25 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy with innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering or related field; 8+ years in control systems engineering.
- Other info: Mentorship opportunities and a dynamic work environment focused on innovation.
The predicted salary is between 70000 - 90000 £ per year.
UK Networks Services (UKNS) is an engineering company at the forefront of the UKs transition to a smarter, more flexible electricity system. Technical grid consulting advising on complex grid connections, regulatory strategy, and power system planning for some of the UKs most significant infrastructure projects.
Smart grid control systems designing and deploying advanced automation, monitoring, and control solutions that enable customers to connect, manage and optimise energy assets across large, distributed networks. Within the smart grid side of the business, we design and integrate systems that combine PLC-based control, SCADA, metering, protection, and real-time data platforms. These systems are deployed on projects such as grid-scale load management, site-wide export limitation, substation automation and dynamic network control.
This is a high-responsibility engineering leadership role focused on technical governance, design quality, and full lifecycle ownership of control system engineering. The Lead Controls Engineer will provide technical leadership across all PLC-based control system and panel designs delivered by UKNS. You will define engineering standards, oversee hardware and software design quality, and ensure robust, compliant and fully documented control solutions are delivered across the project lifecycle.
You will work closely with the CTO, automation engineers, and panel build team providing oversight, mentorship and structured engineering discipline to ensure designs are right-first-time and high quality.
- Setting engineering standards
- Working across both software and hardware domains
- Lead the detailed design of PLC-based control systems for smart grid applications.
- Conduct structured design reviews prior to issue for manufacture (IFC).
- Hardware & Electrical Design Oversight
- Oversee production of panel layouts, terminal plans, protection coordination, I/O schedules, and wiring schematics.
- Specify and validate PLC hardware, network components, metering interfaces and field instrumentation.
- Software & System Architecture
- Provide technical oversight of PLC programming (ladder logic, structured text, function block).
- Project Lifecycle Leadership
- Lead engineering through concept design, detailed design, build support, FAT, SAT and commissioning.
- O&M manuals
- Support client technical discussions and resolve design queries.
- Mentor and develop automation engineers and drafting engineers.
- Improve consistency and technical maturity across the engineering team.
- Help shape the future direction of UKNS control system capability.
Degree in Electrical Engineering, Control Systems, Automation or related discipline (HNC/HND considered with significant experience). 815+ years experience in control systems engineering or automation design. Proven experience leading control system design on industrial or infrastructure projects. Strong background in LV control panel design and electrical schematics. Proficiency with major PLC platforms (Schneider, Siemens, Allen-Bradley). Strong understanding of networked control systems and industrial protocols. Experience in power networks, grid connections, renewables, or HV/LV infrastructure. Experience developing internal engineering standards.
70,000 £90,000 salary depending on experience. Opportunity to lead engineering on some of the UKs most advanced smart grid control projects. Strategic technical influence within a growing, innovation-focused company. Company bonus scheme. Enhanced employers contribution pension scheme. Death in Service benefit policy. Salary sacrifice schemes (Bike2work, Electric Vehicles). 25 Days of annual leave plus local bank holidays. Days available to volunteer for local clubs/charities. £300 available for sponsorship of local club or charity. Professional registration fees paid annually. On-site parking. Training & Development.
UKNS values diversity in the workplace and is a fair and equal-opportunity employer. We currently do not sponsor applications for employment visa status.
Controls Lead Engineer (Permanent) in Watford employer: UK Networks Services
Contact Detail:
UK Networks Services Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Controls Lead Engineer (Permanent) in Watford
✨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
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your past projects, especially those related to PLC-based control systems or smart grid applications. This will give potential employers a clear idea of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on technical questions related to control systems engineering. Be ready to discuss your experience with major PLC platforms and how you've tackled complex design challenges in the past.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Controls Lead Engineer (Permanent) in Watford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the role of Lead Controls Engineer. Highlight your experience with PLC-based control systems and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about smart grid technology and how your background makes you the perfect fit for our team. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality!
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Don’t forget to showcase your technical expertise in your application. Mention specific PLC platforms you’ve worked with and any experience in power networks or grid connections. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you get the best chance to show us what you’ve got. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Networks Services
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of PLC-based control systems and smart grid applications. Familiarise yourself with the specific technologies mentioned in the job description, like Schneider, Siemens, and Allen-Bradley PLCs. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just a candidate, but a potential leader in the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Lead Controls Engineer, you'll be expected to mentor and guide others. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight how you ensured design quality and compliance, as this will resonate well with the interviewers looking for someone who can take charge.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to dive deep into technical discussions during your interview. Be ready to explain your approach to designing control systems, conducting structured design reviews, and overseeing hardware and software integration. Practising common technical questions related to control systems engineering will help you articulate your thought process clearly.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research UK Networks Services and their role in the UK's transition to smarter energy systems. Understanding their projects and values will allow you to align your answers with their goals. This shows genuine interest and helps you connect your experience with their mission, making you a more appealing candidate.