Principal Electrical Engineer

Our Client, a major Rail, Highways, Power and Tunnels consultancy are seeking a highly skilled and experienced and forward-thinking Head of Electrical Engineering to spearhead and develop our Electrical Engineering and Design function.

This is a critical leadership role where you will drive technical excellence, support major infrastructure projects, and mentor the next generation of engineers.

As the Head of Electrical Engineering, you will be responsible for building and managing our Electrical Engineering team, developing our in-house design capabilities, and ensuring all works are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards.

Responsibilities:



* Lead, develop, and mentor the Electrical Engineering team.


* Establish and grow VVB's Electrical design capabilities.


* Provide technical leadership on all electrical systems (LV, HV up to 33kV, lighting, CMS, earthing, UPS, VSDs, DCS, PLC, SCADA, BMS, etc.).


* Ensure engineering works comply with HSE regulations and standards.


* Develop and maintain engineering processes and procedures.


* Support business growth through technical input into tenders and client relationships.


* Ensure robust peer-review and audit processes for project compliance and learning.


* Support accident investigations and oversee project safety from a technical perspective.


* Champion continuous improvement, knowledge sharing, and CPD across the company.

Skills and Experience:



* Strong technical knowledge of Electrical and Process Design, installation standards, BIM, DSEAR and HSE legislation.


* Proficiency in Electrical design software (e.g., Amtech, E-tap, Dialux).


* Hands-on experience with low and high voltage systems up to 33kV.


* Strong leadership, mentoring, and people development skills.


* Experience with hazardous area design (ATEX compliance).


* Sound understanding of design risk assessment and compliance requirements.


Qualifications:



* Degree in Electrical Engineering.


* NEBOSH Construction Health and Safety Certificate.


* Chartered Engineer (CEng) registered with the Engineering Council.


* Membership of a recognised institution (IMechE, CIBSE, IET or equivalent).


* BS 7671 (18th Edition Wiring Regulations).


* C&G Inspection and Testing 2391-52 qualification.


* Full UK Driving Licence.

Desired:



* Master's Degree in Electrical Engineering.


* Project management qualification (APM, Prince2 or equivalent).


* Sustainability awareness.


* Authorised Engineer training.

Competencies:



* Collaborative and forward-thinking leader.


* Decisive under pressure, able to prioritise and delegate effectively.


* Flexible, with a positive ‘can do' attitude.


* Experienced mentor for graduate and junior engineers.


* Strong leadership and excellent communication skills.


* Fluent in English, both written and verbal, at a technical level.


* Builds strong relationships at all levels of the business and with clients.


* Balances client needs with business objectives.


* Self-motivated with a drive for both personal and company development.


* Willingness to travel nationally and stay overnight if required.


* IT proficient (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Experience:



* Minimum 15 years' experience in an infrastructure or heavy industrial environment.


* Hands-on experience as a Design Engineer, Project Engineer, and Commissioning Engineer.


* Experience working for both M&E contractors and client/main contractors.


* Network Rail CRE (Contractor's Responsible Engineer) experience.

If you are interested in this job, please send over your cv and get in touch with Jamie at Unity Recruitment.

Alternatively if you know anyone who might be interested in this job opportunity, please send over for a referral fee.