Primary Design Engineer - Senior / Associate / Director (Energy)

Primary Design Engineer - Senior / Associate / Director (Energy)

Full-Time 51750 - 63250 £ / year (est.) Home office (partial)
WSP Group

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Design and deliver high-voltage substations for cleaner power systems.
  • Company: Join WSP, a leading engineering firm with a culture of innovation.
  • Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health support, and career development opportunities.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to positive community impacts.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's net zero ambitions while working on landmark projects.
  • Qualifications: HNC in Electrical Engineering and experience in HV/EHV substation design.

The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.

What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.

A little more about your role: WSP is at the forefront of delivering the next generation of electricity network infrastructure. As demand for cleaner, more resilient power systems continues to grow, we're expanding our Primary Substation capability and are looking for Engineers, Senior Engineers and Associate's and Associate Director's to join us. Working on nationally significant projects, including programmes supporting the Great Grid Upgrade, you'll contribute to the design and delivery of high-voltage substations that will help connect renewable generation, strengthen network resilience and support the UK's net zero ambitions.

Responsibilities:

  • Produce a comprehensive suite of design drawings for Grid and Primary substations.
  • Prepare technical specifications for Electrical plant and providing associated electrical designs for the substation upgrades, and new substations projects from 11kV up to and including 132kV.
  • Produce substation design feasibility reports, cost estimate, layouts, GA’s as well as the preparation of plant specifications that include transformers, switchgear and battery systems.
  • Reviewing designs produced by suppliers and client to ensure designs are technically compliant and in line with current legislation and policies.
  • Ensure designs are delivered in accordance with the contract to the satisfaction of the client and the specifications.
  • Undertake the role of CDM Designer and/or Principal Designer for developed HV and EHV projects.
  • Ensure that relevant Health and Safety risks and hazards are identified, made known to the project team and properly managed.
  • Attend site meetings to support any design or requirement change during project build.
  • Ensure project design works are aligned with programme, quality, and margin.
  • Actively developing external and internal client relationships.
  • Experience of HV and EHV Plant specification, 11kV up to and including 132kV, design, load calculations and rating studies.
  • Preparing specifications for HV and EHV substation equipment including the evaluation and identification of plant accessories such as CT’s, battery systems and terminations.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate:

  • Minimum qualification HNC Electrical Engineering.
  • Exposure to substation cable design and protection and control.
  • Experience of small, medium and technically complex new substation, retrofit or network reinforcement projects.
  • Proven experience in HV and EHV substation design (both AIS & GIS), from 11kV up to and including 132kV.
  • Knowledge of engineering standards and technical policies for HV and EHV plant, substations (including earthing and electrical clearances).
  • An ability to interpret technical documentation relating to the design of electrical substations.
  • Design cost estimation experience.
  • The ability to travel as per project needs.

Don’t quite meet all the criteria? Apply, and we can see how your experience aligns to this role and other opportunities within the team.

Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?

  • Work-life balance: At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
  • Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP.
  • Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most.
  • Flex your time: To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
  • Your development: We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.

#WeAreWSP Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.

Primary Design Engineer - Senior / Associate / Director (Energy) employer: WSP Group

At WSP, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that values innovation and inclusivity. With a strong commitment to employee development, our team members enjoy opportunities for growth through training and mentoring, while our hybrid working policy ensures a healthy work-life balance. Join us in shaping the future of energy infrastructure and make a meaningful impact in a supportive environment that celebrates diverse perspectives.

WSP Group

Contact Details:

WSP Group Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Primary Design Engineer - Senior / Associate / Director (Energy)

Join Engineering Meetups!

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We think you need these skills to ace Primary Design Engineer - Senior / Associate / Director (Energy)

Electrical Engineering
High Voltage (HV) Design
Extra High Voltage (EHV) Design
Substation Design
Technical Specification Preparation
Cost Estimation
Load Calculations

Some tips for your application 🫡

Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Primary Design Engineer - Senior / Associate / Director (Energy), it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.

Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at WSP Group a clear picture of the value you can bring.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to WSP Group specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!

Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.

How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Group

Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles

Before heading into the interview with WSP Group, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!

Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills

Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.

Relate Your Experience to the Role

In a full-time role, employers like WSP Group want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.

Know Your Tools and Software

Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.