Senior HV Substation Project Manager

About the role

Designer Group is looking for an experienced Senior HV Substation Project Manager to lead a major high-voltage infrastructure project: the construction of a 380/13.8kV substation. The project includes installation and commissioning of HV/MV transformers, switchgear, protection and control systems, plus extensive civil and electrical works, and is scheduled through to Q3 2028. The successful candidate will deliver the project safely, on time and within budget, leading multidisciplinary teams and managing client, supplier and stakeholder relationships.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the project from mobilisation through energisation and final handover, accountable for safety, quality, commercial and programme objectives.
• Develop execution strategies, delivery plans and resource requirements.
• Manage multidisciplinary teams covering engineering, construction, commercial, commissioning and support functions.
• Maintain a strong safety culture and comply with company, client and statutory health and safety requirements.
• Manage budgets, forecasts, cost control, variations and contractual obligations.
• Oversee detailed project programmes and key milestones.
• Act as primary interface with the client and communicate regularly with senior management.
• Coordinate subcontractors, specialist contractors, equipment manufacturers and suppliers.
• Provide technical leadership on transformers, switchgear, protection and control systems.
• Drive procurement of long-lead equipment and critical materials.
• Lead risk identification, mitigation and issue resolution.
• Chair project review meetings and report on safety, commercial performance, programme status, risks and opportunities.
• Ensure construction, testing, commissioning and energisation follow specifications and standards, and mentor team members.

Required profile

• Proven experience delivering HV substation projects at 110kV and above.
• Track record managing major EPC infrastructure projects from inception to completion.
• Experience leading multidisciplinary teams and managing clients, subcontractors, OEM suppliers and stakeholders.
• Utility, transmission, renewable integration or grid infrastructure experience.
• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, Building Services Engineering or a related discipline.
• Professional Project Management qualification desirable; Health & Safety qualifications advantageous; Chartered Engineer status or working towards it beneficial.

Required skills

• HV substation construction, testing, commissioning and energisation.
• EPC contracting models, project controls and commercial management.

What we offer

• One of the most significant HV infrastructure projects currently under delivery, with long-term certainty through Q3 2028 and beyond.
• A growing Energy & Utilities division with a strong project pipeline.
• Competitive salary, benefits package and career development opportunities.