Jacobs
Associate Director Protection & Control (P&C) Design Engineer - UK Grid Network

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Lead Associate Director – Protection & Control Engineer, Power & Energy (UK & Continental Europe)
About the Role
At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery, and cutting-edge manufacturing. We turn abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
As our UK and Continental Europe Power & Energy team expands, we’re seeking an Associate Director – Protection & Control Engineer to drive high-profile Protection & Control (P&C) projects across transmission, renewable energy, and advanced infrastructure. This role will include high-voltage AIS and GIS Substations, transmission assets, HVDC interconnectors, and energy storage systems.
Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership & Technical Delivery
- Lead FEED (Front-End Engineering and Design) and detailed design workstreams for Protection & Control systems across transmission, renewable energy, and energy storage projects.
- Oversee interface design, protection schemes, control philosophies, and settings coordination to ensure seamless integration.
- Ensure high-quality, timely delivery of design packages, bids, and client deliverables, adhering to industry standards and safety regulations.
Team Management & Development
- Manage and grow the P&C engineering team, including recruitment, onboarding, and capability development.
- Monitor and improve team billability, utilisation, and performance metrics to drive efficiency.
- Provide mentorship and strategic direction to senior engineers and technical specialists.
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I’m in my final year doing Economics and I don’t know whether to apply for grad schemes now or do a masters first. What do you think?
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StrongYour economics background and your summer at a regional bank line up with what PwC looks for on the consulting scheme. Applications close in four weeks.
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Business Development & Client Engagement
- Support major bids and proposals, contributing to technical strategy and resource planning.
- Undertake site visits and non-intrusive surveys to inform design decisions.
- Chair design reviews, hazard reviews, and technical assurance meetings to maintain project integrity.
- Identify and manage technical risks, ensuring compliance with CDM (Construction Design and Management) and safety standards.
- Maintain and grow client relationships, aligning P&C expertise with business development goals and market positioning.
Requirements
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
- Chartered Engineer (IET).
- Extensive experience in P&C FEED and detailed design for high-voltage installations (132kV–400kV).
- Strong knowledge of National Grid and SSE design processes and standards.
- Full project lifecycle experience, from feasibility studies to detailed design.
- Familiarity with Protection & Control systems for:
- DNOs (Distribution Network Operators)
- BESS (Battery Energy Storage Systems)
- Windfarms
- HVDC (High-Voltage Direct Current)
- Ability to work flexibly across multiple projects, balancing competing priorities.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Why Join Jacobs?
People-First Culture & Benefits
Jacobs thrives on the strength of its people. We offer a competitive benefits package, including:
- Free single medical cover and digital GP service.
- Family-friendly benefits, such as enhanced parental leave pay and subsidised memberships to employee assistance/newsletter programs.
- Professional development funding for relevant certifications and memberships.
- Collectively program: Matched-funding for charitable donations, paid volunteering time, and community support.


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Work-Life Balance & Flexibility
Flexibility is at the heart of how we work. We embrace hybrid, part-time, and flexible working arrangements, including:
- Hybrid working (onsite/remote split).
- Tailored schedules based on individual and business needs.
Values & Belonging
- Inclusion, integrity, and belonging are core to our culture.
- Positive mental health and diverse perspectives are encouraged.
- Jacobs Employee Networks foster community, connecting employees across the business.
Global Impact
- Join a global engineering leader with opportunities to shape energy transition initiatives.
- Experience first-class training, career development, and international projects.
- Be part of a disability-confident employer, committed to supporting diverse talent.
Additional Notes
- Flexible working and adaptable recruitment processes are welcomed.
- Meetings and client interactions are often in-person to foster collaboration.
- Accessibility support available—contact Careers Support for adjustments.
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