Job Specification - Commissioning Engineer (Substations)

Location: Stevenage (4 days per week on-site, with travel across the East of England)

Industry: Energy & Utilities - High Voltage Substations

Type: Full-time, Permanent

Purpose of the Role

The Commissioning Engineer will play a key role in delivering high-voltage substation projects, working on voltages of 132kV and above. The role involves testing, commissioning, and integrating high-voltage plant and apparatus onto live distribution networks. SAP authorisations are not required on appointment - full training and certification will be provided for the right candidate.

Key Responsibilities

• Undertake commissioning and integration of high-voltage equipment within new and existing substations.
• Prepare and follow commissioning plans and schedules.
• Support the development of switching schedules and permit-to-work documentation.
• Work alongside SAPs to carry out switching operations, isolations, and earthing.
• Ensure works are delivered to the highest safety, quality, and compliance standards.
• Attend site and client meetings, resolving commissioning and operational issues.
• Provide technical input during project design and delivery phases.
• Collaborate with project teams to ensure delivery is on time, within budget, and to specification.

Essential Skills & Experience

• Minimum of 132kV high-voltage experience (wind farm, power station, substation, or similar).
• Proven experience commissioning and/or maintaining high-voltage electrical plant and apparatus.
• Strong understanding of HV electrical systems, protection schemes, and control systems.
• Ability to interpret technical drawings and schematics.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.

Desirable Skills

• Previous experience in UKPN or other DNO environments.
• Knowledge of UK electrical safety rules and legislation (HSWA, EAWR, CDM, etc.).
• Familiarity with NEC contracts.

Qualifications

• HNC/Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent experience).
• Full UK driving licence.

Training Provided

• Full SAP authorisation training (Permit to Work, Sanction for Test, Switching).
• UK Distribution Safety Rules training.

Benefits

• Competitive salary with discretionary bonus scheme.
• Matched/contributory pension scheme.
• Company car and fuel card (choice of EV or hybrid vehicles).
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
• Private healthcare and health cash plan.
• Online GP service (24/7), employee assistance programme, and wellbeing support.
• Enhanced family leave policies.
• Retail discounts via rewards portal.
• Cycle to work and other salary sacrifice schemes.