At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex electrical protection projects from design to commissioning across the UK and internationally.
- Company: Join a leading global energy and grid solutions provider with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, flexible working, and opportunities for international travel.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the energy sector while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: BSc in Electrical Engineering and 5+ years in protection and electrical design engineering.
- Other info: Dynamic role with excellent career growth and exposure to cutting-edge technology.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 77000 £ per year.
Vickerstock are proud to be working in partnership with a leading global energy and grid solutions provider to recruit a Lead Electrical Protection Engineer on a contract basis. This is a high-impact role offering exposure to complex grid automation and substation protection projects, with responsibility spanning design, testing, and commissioning across the UK and international sites.
The Role
As Lead Electrical Protection Engineer, you will take technical ownership of protection system design and delivery, acting as the key technical interface between customers and the wider engineering community. Reporting directly to the Engineering Team Leader, you will lead engineering activities from initial design through to site commissioning.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead technical project activities from customer kick-off through to commissioning
- Act as technical lead on protection and scheme design for electrical substations
- Analyse customer specifications and develop compliant technical solutions
- Prepare, review, and approve project technical documentation
- Manage engineering man-day budgets and provide regular progress updates
- Participate in project risk reviews and technical decision-making
- Specify protection software and IEDs in line with project requirements
- Ensure compliance with safety and quality standards
- Resolve technical deviations and manage fault reports
- Lead Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and Site Acceptance Tests (SATs)
- Support site engineers both remotely and on-site during commissioning phases
Essential Criteria
- BSc in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent)
- Minimum 5 years’ experience in protection and electrical design engineering
- Strong knowledge of protection functions, electrical schemes, and cubicle design
- Proven experience designing and configuring protection relays
- Experience carrying out network studies
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Willingness to travel within the UK and internationally
Desirable Experience
- In-depth knowledge of LV, MV, and HV protection systems
- Experience with automation and protection electrical schemes
- Exposure to substation automation solutions
- Strong problem-solving and organisational skills
- Ability to work independently in a project-driven environment
- Flexible approach to working hours
Contract Details
- Contract duration: December 2025 – June 2026
- Rate: £440 per day Inside IR35
- Remote / hybrid working model
- UK and international travel required
- 40 hours per week
To speak in absolute confidence about this opportunity please send an up to date CV via the link provided or contact Ruairi McCann, Recruitment Manager at Vickerstock 02890 313720. Even if this position is not right for you, we may have others that are. Please visit Vickerstock to view a wide selection of our current jobs. All conversations will be treated in the strictest of confidence.
Lead Electrical Project Engineer employer: Vickerstock
Contact Detail:
Vickerstock Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Lead Electrical Project Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the energy and engineering sectors. Attend industry events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your previous projects, especially those related to protection systems and electrical design. This will give potential employers a clear view of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on technical knowledge and common interview questions in your field. Practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms, as communication is key in this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got a range of opportunities that might just be perfect for you. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Lead Electrical Project Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. Highlight your expertise in protection system design and any relevant projects you've led, as this will show us you're a great fit for the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us why you're passionate about this position. Share specific examples of your experience with electrical design engineering and how you've successfully managed projects from start to finish.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong written and verbal communication skills are essential, make sure your application is clear and concise. Use professional language but keep it friendly – we want to see your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. This ensures your application gets to the right people quickly and helps us keep track of all applicants efficiently. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vickerstock
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of protection systems and electrical design. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving grid automation and substation protection. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to face technical questions related to protection relays and electrical schemes. Review common scenarios and be prepared to explain how you would approach design challenges or fault management. This is your chance to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and technical expertise.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Lead Electrical Protection Engineer, you'll need to liaise with customers and the engineering team. Practice articulating complex ideas clearly and concisely. Think about examples where you've successfully communicated technical information to non-technical stakeholders.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Management Experience
Be ready to discuss how you've managed engineering budgets and timelines in past projects. Highlight your experience with Factory Acceptance Tests (FATs) and Site Acceptance Tests (SATs). This will illustrate your ability to lead projects from design through to commissioning effectively.