Protection & Control Design Engineer

Associate Director – Protection & Control Design Engineer
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced Associate Director – Protection & Control Design Engineer to lead the delivery of major transmission and renewable energy projects across the UK and Continental Europe. This senior leadership role is ideal for a Protection & Control specialist with extensive experience delivering high‑voltage substation projects and supporting engineering teams to achieve technical excellence.


Salary
Competitive + Benefits


Location and Working Pattern
Flexible UK / Hybrid


Responsibilities

• Lead FEED and detailed design activities for Protection & Control systems on transmission and renewable energy projects.
• Develop and oversee protection schemes, control philosophies, interface designs, and settings coordination.
• Ensure high‑quality technical delivery, maintaining compliance with specifications, industry standards, and deadlines.
• Manage and develop a growing Protection & Control engineering team, including recruitment, mentoring, and capability development.
• Monitor utilisation, performance, and delivery across the team while driving operational improvements.
• Support technical input into major bids, tenders, and proposals.
• Conduct site visits and non‑intrusive surveys to support project design and delivery.
• Chair design reviews, technical assurance meetings, and safety workshops.
• Identify and manage technical and project risks, ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory requirements.
• Build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships while supporting business growth activities.

Must‑have Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Chartered Engineer status through the IET.
• Current LCDAE and/or CDAE authorisation.
• Extensive experience delivering FEED and detailed Protection & Control design for high‑voltage systems ranging from 132kV to 400kV.
• Strong understanding of National Grid and SSE standards and design requirements.
• Demonstrable experience across the project lifecycle, from feasibility through to detailed design and delivery.
• Experience in transmission, DNO, BESS, windfarm, and HVDC projects.
• Strong leadership, stakeholder management, and communication skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a dynamic environment.

Nice‑to‑have Skills

• Previous leadership experience within a consultancy, contractor, or utility environment.
• Proven track record of developing teams and expanding engineering capability.
• Experience supporting business development, strategic planning, or framework bids.

The NRL Group connect global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. Supporting contracting companies with energy transition plans and working with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future.
 
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