Principal Development Engineer

About the role

Be part of something world-changing. 

National Grid Interconnectors is at the heart of UK’s transition to our net zero energy future. We operate a number of HVDC interconnectors that connect the UK’s energy system to some of our closest neighbours, allowing energy to be imported to and exported from the UK. As well as already owning a portfolio of HVDC Interconnectors, we’re working on developing new projects in order to ensure that we are able to meet the UK’s future demands for greener energy solutions. 

The HVDC Engineering team provides technical expertise and asset management support to our portfolio of operational interconnectors (including IFA1, IFA2, NSL and Viking Link) to ensure efficient, safe and reliable assets throughout their life cycle.

As a Principal Development Engineer, you'll have a critical role driving optioneering and development works on our operational interconnectors to ensure optimal-cost, fit-for-purpose and safe asset intervention solutions are planned and prepared ready for delivery that support the business’ regulatory, stakeholder and customer commitments.

In this role you can enjoy our hybrid working from office and home. You'll be flexible to travelling to our IFA (Sellindge, Kent) Interconnector site and other UK Interconnector sites as required. There will also be a requirement to travel to our Head Office in Warwick, on a regular basis. We’re happy to discuss any additional flexibility in working patterns or requirements that you feel could help to make this job work for you! 

Key accountabilities

• Lead multiple high-profile asset intervention projects for our operational interconnectors, from Needs Case sign-off through to delivery / Construction handover.
• Appoint and lead scheme teams during pre-construction phases, actively managing key stakeholders to ensure their timely input and agreement to the selection and development of asset investments, pursuant to timely approvals.
• Assess asset intervention options, with a view to selecting an option to take forward for development.
• Provide comprehensive scope information for developed asset intervention solutions.
• Develop an optimal, efficient and safe solution for asset interventions in line with CDM and SHESQ requirements, documenting all residual design issues, hazards and risks.
• Assess the need for Front End Engineering Design (FEED) or other specialist engineering / consultant support. Monitor and control the FEED / consultant budget and resolve any associated contractual issues in a timely manner.

About you

What we do isn’t just important – it’s essential. That’s why we look to recruit experts in their field. In this case, we’re looking for someone who has: 

• Experience and knowledge of HVDC interconnectors and associated systems including converter stations, onshore & offshore cables and associated infrastructure.
• Experience of successful project delivery experience on multi-interface projects.
• Experience of different engineering concepts that could be used for developing asset intervention solutions across the different asset families.
• Broad knowledge of SHESQ procedures, policies and legislation and their application, including the application and enactment of CDM.
• The ability to communicate issues associated within area of expertise in a clear and concise manner, both verbally and in writing.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of gaining a high degree of credibility and influencing teams.
• Educated to a minimum of HND or Degree (equivalent) in an appropriate engineering discipline.

Don’t meet every single requirement? If you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t match the job description exactly, we encourage you to apply anyway. You might just be the right person for our growing business in this role or another one.

What you'll get

• A competitive salary between £58,000 – £74,000 dependent on capability.
• Established market supplement of £4,500 per annum (paid monthly).
• Job requirement car.
• An annual performance bonus.
• 26 days annual leave (plus bank holidays).
• The option to buy additional or sell holiday days.
• Generous contributory pension scheme - we will double-match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%.
• Financial support to help cover the cost of professional membership subscriptions, course fees, books, exam fees and time off for study leave - so long as it's relevant to your role.
• Access to flexible benefits such as a share incentive plan, salary sacrifice car and technology schemes, support via employee assistance lines and matched charity giving to name a few.
• Family care benefits including a back-up care service for when your usual care arrangements fall through (six paid days each year as standard with the option to purchase further days).
• Access to apps that support health, fitness and wellbeing.

About us

National Grid Ventures (NGV) is at the forefront of the energy transition. We operate across the UK, Europe and US, developing, operating, and investing in large-scale clean energy infrastructure. We’re helping to accelerate society’s drive towards net zero while maintaining security of supply today.

More information

This role closes on 3 January 2025 at 23:59, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary. Interviews to be held week commencing 13 and 20 January. 

At National Grid, we work towards the highest standards in everything we do, including how we support, value and develop our people. Our aim is to encourage and support employees to thrive and be the best they can be. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds, and offer flexible and tailored support, at home and in the office.

Our goal is to drive, develop and operate our business in a way that results in a more inclusive culture. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, the innovation from diverse teams & perspectives and business need. We are committed to building a workforce so we can represent the communities we serve and have a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential.

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