Protection Validation Engineer (Lead/SME)
UK / Europe | Technical Delivery
We’re looking for a Protection Validation Engineer (Lead / SME) to act as our technical authority on protection and control systems across high-voltage (HV) and extra high-voltage (EHV) environments.
This is a senior, high-impact role combining technical leadership, independent validation, and hands-on project involvement. You’ll shape validation strategies, challenge designs, and ensure protection systems perform reliably in some of the most critical infrastructure environments in the world.
Expect a balance of strategic oversight and on-site delivery (25–50%), working closely with commissioning teams during key project phases.
What You’ll Be Doing
You’ll operate as a trusted expert across multiple projects, responsible for:
Leading protection validation strategy, standards, and best practices
Acting as the technical authority for protection engineering across the business
Reviewing and validating
Protection & control designs
Single-line diagrams and schematics
Relay settings and coordination studies
Ensuring compliance with client specs, grid requirements, and industry standards
Providing technical oversight across design, FAT/SAT, and commissioning phases
Supporting site activities, including
Witnessing end-to-end protection testing
Verifying protection scheme functionality
Supporting energisation and switching events
Identifying risks, resolving complex issues, and supporting fault investigations
Advising clients and stakeholders in design reviews and assurance forums
Mentoring engineers and contributing to internal technical capability
What We’re Looking For
Core Experience
Extensive background in HV/EHV protection and control systems
Proven experience in protection validation, design review, and technical assurance
Strong knowledge of
Overcurrent, distance, and differential protection
Protection coordination and selectivity
Experience with relay configuration, testing, and commissioning oversight
Familiarity with tools such as ETAP, DIgSILENT, or similar
Technical & Professional Background
Electrical qualifications (HNC/HND/BEng or equivalent preferred)
HV authorisations or training (essential)
Chartered Engineer status (or working towards) is advantageous
Ability to interpret complex schematics and technical documentation
Experience in data centres, utilities, or mission-critical environments is a plus
How You Work
You’re a technical leader who can influence and challenge decisions
You balance engineering governance with practical delivery
You’re detail-driven, proactive, and solutions-focused
You communicate confidently with clients, contractors, and teams
You prioritise safety and quality in high-voltage environments
You enjoy mentoring and developing others
Please note this role is a combination of 25-50% UK and European travel and the remainder of the time you will be based at our Newcastle Office.