I'm partnering with a long-established UK engineering company in the power systems sector to appoint a Technical Director specialising in high-voltage (HV) and extra-high-voltage (EHV) substation testing and commissioning.
This is a senior leadership position acting as the technical authority across grid infrastructure projects, combining strategic oversight with deep, hands-on expertise. You'll play a pivotal role in shaping engineering standards, leading commissioning activities, and ensuring the successful delivery of complex AIS and GIS substation projects across transmission and distribution (T&D) networks.
Key responsibilities:
Technical Governance & Strategy
Define and implement engineering strategies, protection philosophies, and commissioning procedures
Ensure alignment with international standards and UK utility requirements (e.g. National Grid, SSE, Scottish Power)
Act as the ultimate technical authority across HV/EHV projects
Project Oversight
Provide leadership from FEED (Front End Engineering Design) through detailed design, construction, and final commissioning
Oversee technical delivery across the full project lifecycle within transmission and distribution networks
Site & Commissioning Support
Lead and support complex testing and commissioning activities on HV/EHV substations
Resolve critical site issues, technical queries, and design deviations
Provide expert input on AIS (Air Insulated Switchgear) and GIS (Gas Insulated Switchgear) systems
Quality & Safety Assurance
Ensure all Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT) meet stringent quality, safety, and environmental standards
Champion a "safety in design" and commissioning culture across all projects
Leadership & Mentorship
Mentor and develop engineering teams, including commissioning engineers and design staff
Act as a subject matter expert in client and stakeholder engagements
Drive continuous improvement in technical delivery and engineering excellence
Requirements:
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
Extensive experience in HV/EHV substation design, testing, and commissioning within T&D environments
Deep knowledge of:
Protection & Control (P&C) systems
Primary plant (transformers, switchgear, CTs/VTs)
Secondary systems and substation automation
Strong experience with AIS and GIS substations
Proven ability to develop test procedures, analyse protection relay settings, and lead commissioning teams on major infrastructure projects
Demonstrated leadership experience in senior or principal engineering roles
Desirable:
Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or equivalent
Experience working with National Grid, SSE, Scottish Power, or similar utilities
Familiarity with IEC standards and modern substation automation protocols (e.g. IEC 61850)
Track record of leading large-scale or multi-site commissioning programmes
What's on offer:
Executive-level technical leadership role within a specialist engineering business
Opportunity to shape and influence delivery of critical UK energy infrastructure
High-impact role combining strategy, leadership, and hands-on engineering
Flexible working with site exposure across major grid projects
Competitive salary and benefits package
The salary is £80,000 to £100,000 (flex on this) plus car allowance and an annual bonus.
