Jacobs
Principal Engineer Overhead Lines (OHL)

How your CV stacks up
Upload your CV to see how well it fits this job role
?%
Principal Engineer Overhead Lines (OHL)
Principal Engineer - OHL | Jacobs
At Jacobs, we challenge 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—turning ideas into realities that transform the world for good.
Your impact
Jacobs drives the global energy transition. In our expanding UK and Continental Europe power and energy team, we are seeking a Principal Engineer - OHL to support high-profile projects across our Power & Energy portfolio, including:
- High-voltage AIS and GIS substations
- Transmission system assets
- HV Overhead Lines
- HVDC interconnectors
- Energy storage systems
Main responsibilities (but not limited to):
- Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and design documentation using tools such as PLS-CADD, AutoCAD, and MicroStation.
- Oversee technical activities, including line routing, sag-tension calculations, structure analysis, conductor selection, clearance reports, and design documentation.
- Prepare and review proposals and reports detailing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations.
- Engage regularly in client-facing design reviews and technical workshops.
- Lead and mentor a team of specialist design engineers working on overhead transmission line solutions.
- Identify and manage project risks to ensure successful delivery.
- Promote a strong safety culture.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients to drive project success.
Reasons to use Rodeo
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?
Honest answer — it depends on where you want to end up. A lot of top grad schemes (Big 4, civil service, banking) don’t need a masters. Let’s look at the ones you’d be competitive for now, and we can decide if a masters actually adds anything.
Also worth knowing: most autumn 2026 applications are open now. Timing matters more than you think.
Start with a chat, not a search bar
Grad scheme, placement, apprenticeship? Not sure what you want yet — that's fine. Your agent talks it through with you and turns "I have no idea" into a shortlist.
Graduate Consultant — 2026 Scheme
Why you're a good match
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.
See breakdownIt searches the market for you
Every day your agent scans the market matching roles against what actually matters to you, not just keywords on a CV.
Why you're a good match
You’ve got the grades and the economics background, and your bank internship is exactly the experience this scheme looks for. Apply soon — deadlines close within the month.
Experience fit
Your summer at the bank plus your econometrics coursework map directly to the day-one responsibilities on this scheme — client modelling, market briefings, and deal support.
Only hits
No noise. No "maybe this fits." Just roles with a clear explanation of why they're right — and where to focus when applying.
Here's what you'll need
- Proven experience in OHL design (132kV–400kV), ideally within UK transmission and distribution environments.
- Bachelor’s Degree and/or Master’s in Electrical Engineering.
- Familiarity with National Grid and Distribution Network Operator (DNO) standards and processes.
- Strong communication skills and stakeholder engagement ability.
- Ability to manage competing priorities and deliver under pressure.
- Demonstrated ability to lead technical workstreams and contribute to strategic project delivery.
- Proficiency in industry-standard software such as PLS-CADD, PLS-Tower, PLS-Pole, and AutoDesk tools.
Benefits and culture at Jacobs
At Jacobs, we connect locally but impact globally. Founded on core values of safety, integrity, inclusion, and belonging, we prioritise employees’ growth, well-being, and contributions.


Get help with your application
Your very own career expert that helps elevate your application to the next level.
With a hybrid working policy, we follow innovative methods to enhance your potential. You’ll enjoy benefits and opportunities, such as well-being benefits, global giving programs, and unique volunteer activities to help clients achieve impactful change.
We champion inclusion and belonging through Employee Networks, Communities of Practice, and initiatives like "Find Your Community." Our values ensure diverse perspectives drive learning and innovation, creating vibrant, supportive communities.
As a disability confident employer, we encourage applications from diverse backgrounds, including those who require reasonable accommodations or flexible working arrangements. Mediated ambition and representation matter to us—we believe no one should have to compromise who they are to progress.
seek interviews from a wide range of backgrounds with VERCIDA, visit VERCIDA for accessible applications.
Careers Support: For assistance or adjustments regarding the recruitment process (e.g., application format), contact Careers Support.
“It took my CV and asked me questions relevant to understanding what kind of jobs to suggest for me. Suggestions were almost perfect. Jobs were exactly what I’ve been looking for.”
Jessica, London
Skills