SP Electricity North West
Layout Design Engineer
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Layout Design Engineer
SP Electricity North West manages and invests in the power network that supplies electricity to the 2.4 million homes and businesses across the North West. Our team of 2,400 colleagues manages a vast network:
- 13,000km of overhead lines
- 44,000km of underground cables
- Thousands of electricity substations
to keep power flowing and support green growth. As one of the six distribution network operators (DNOs) in the UK, we are regulated by Ofgem. Recognised as Utility of the Year by Utility Week magazine (December 2024), we focus on innovation to solve some of the industry’s most complex challenges.
We are part of the Iberdrola and ScottishPower group and collectively work towards building smarter, greener electricity networks to support Britain’s growth.
Role Overview
About the Role
We are seeking a motivated and detail-focused Electrical Layout Design Engineer to create high-quality substation layouts for high-voltage networks (up to 132kV) using AutoCAD. The successful candidate will contribute to cost-effective and efficient project delivery in collaboration with Project Managers, Construction Managers, Construction Engineers, and Design Managers.
Please note: Developmental candidates are welcome.
What You'll Be Doing
- Accountable for developing and implementing electrical layouts that support cost-effective solutions for major electricity projects.
- Responsible for designing electrical layouts in an appropriate, consistent format to meet design and project requirements.
- Manage relevant contractors throughout the project lifecycle, liaising with construction, project managers, design and project control sectors.
- Provide accurate project forecasts and reliable progress updates.
- Maintain ENWL drawing archives and the Document Management System.
- Produce technical specifications for plant and associated components, including structures, insulators, busbars, and connectors.
- Develop and agree design standards with the layout team and other departments.
- Oversee the production of lighting and small power designs along with earthing designs.
- Attend Option Approval Group meetings and site surveys, applying the Standard Solutions Methodology.
- Ensuring all projects meet key objectives of time, cost and quality, in alignment with agreed schedules.
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What You’ll Need
Qualifications & Experience
- HNC in Electrical Engineering or equivalent, with demonstrable layout experience.
- Expert-level knowledge of AutoCAD and RasterCAD.
- Strong knowledge of 132kV, 33kV and 11/6.6kV systems and substations, including:
- Switchgear
- Transformers
- Overhead and underground circuits
- Relevant experience in electrical design and engineering practices.
- Familiarity with electricity distribution businesses.
- Experience with CDM (Construction Design and Management) regulations relevant to utility projects.
- Proficiency in AutoCAD drawing techniques, such as:
- Accurate to-scale drawing in model/paper space
- Layering and view manipulation
- Producing plans and elevations from site measurements or archive drawings.
Personal Attributes
- Strong teamwork and communication skills.
- A creative problem-solver, able to anticipate project/schedule issues and adapt to change.
- A UK driving licence and access to your own vehicle.
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What We Offer
We value your expertise and work to provide a rewarding and supportive workplace. Our benefits include:
- Annual bonus scheme
- Salary sacrifice car scheme
- 26 days annual leave (with additional days granted with length of service)
- Employee rewards portal, offering discounts from well-known brands
- Market-leading contributory pension scheme
- Employee assistance programme
- Ongoing professional development through our Learning and Development (L&D) function
Our Commitment to Inclusion
We are proud to foster a workspace where everyone can thrive and celebrate diversity. Our goal is to build a team that reflects the communities we serve. Embracing our differences helps us achieve greater success.
Further Support for Your Application:
For any additional support or adjustments required, please contact our recruitment team at careers@enwl.co.uk or 0845 366 0092 (Option 2).
Offers & Pre-Employment Conditions:
Any offer remains conditional until pre-employment checks are completed to a satisfactory level, at the discretion of SP Electricity North West. For this role, the following checks are required:
- References from previous employers
- Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
- Drug & Alcohol test
Note: This vacancy is subject to closing early.
Agency Information:
Speculative CV submissions will not be accepted, and we reserve the right to assert ownership of any applicants who may come through third-party sources. No fee will be payable in such cases.
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