We’re representing a national infrastructure group delivering major energy projects across the UK’s transmission and distribution network. Their work spans high-voltage substations, grid connections, renewable integration and large-scale decarbonisation schemes – enabling the critical transition to a low-carbon future.
They’re now seeking an experienced Lead Design Protection & Control Engineer to take technical ownership of complex substation projects at voltages up to 400kV. This is a senior design leadership position within a fast-growing engineering team, offering genuine influence on how future networks are designed and delivered.
The Role
As Lead P&C Engineer, you’ll oversee the end-to-end design process for protection and control systems across multiple UK transmission projects. You’ll collaborate closely with HV plant, cabling, civil and commissioning teams to ensure fully integrated, safe and compliant solutions.
Key responsibilities include:

• Leading protection and control design from concept through to construction-ready stage.
• Preparing and reviewing AC/DC schematics, protection diagrams, and tender documentation.
• Specifying relays, CTs, VTs and associated substation equipment.
• Performing protection coordination and relay setting studies using ETAP or DIgSILENT.
• Providing technical assurance and peer review of internal and third-party designs.
• Supporting commissioning plans, FAT/SAT attendance and client design reviews.
• Managing resources and mentoring junior engineers to build team capability.
• Ensuring all designs align with UK standards, client specifications and IEC requirements.

About You

• Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
• Minimum 8 years’ experience in protection and control design, including 4+ years on UK transmission projects (e.g. NGET, SSEN, SPEN).
• In-depth knowledge of HV substations from 132kV to 400kV.
• Strong understanding of CT/VT sizing, relay configuration and AC/DC schematics.
• Skilled in ETAP, DIgSILENT and familiar with IEC 61850, DNP3, and Modbus protocols.
• Proven leadership and communication skills, with a safety-first mindset.
• Comfortable managing multiple concurrent projects and mentoring others.

Why This Role?
This is an opportunity to lead technically demanding, high-value projects that directly shape the UK’s energy future. You’ll join a respected organisation that invests in innovation, supports progression, and empowers engineers to take real ownership of their work.
Package includes:

• Company car or EV/hybrid scheme
• Private healthcare & cash plan
• Discretionary annual bonus
• 25 days’ holiday + bank holidays
• Pension & life assurance
• Enhanced family leave
• Wellbeing and recognition programmes

For more information, please contact Stewart Howl at Tarrant Howl, or apply online to register your interest.