Principal Electrical Engineer – Overhead Lines (OHL)

Overview

As a Principal OHL Design Engineer within AECOM’s Transmission & Distribution team, you lead technically challenging overhead line (OHL) design projects and guide strategic client engagement. You will shape technical standards and digital delivery across high-voltage schemes, including major initiatives like National Grid’s Great Grid Upgrade. You’ll mentor the team, drive feasibility studies, and contribute to business development while delivering safe, compliant, and optimized transmission solutions. This role offers impact at scale in a global, design-led firm committed to a better world.

Pay / Benefits

• hybrid working model
• career development opportunities
• AECOM University
• volunteering days
• flexible working
• well-being programs

Responsibilities

• Lead technical delivery of overhead line design on complex multi-discipline projects
• Support large programmes such as National Grid’s Great Grid Upgrade
• Write proposals with timelines, resources, budgets, objectives
• Provide technical input during project implementation, planning, and public consultations
• Manage design activities including PLS-CADD modelling, line routing, structural analysis, sag-tension, insulator/conductor selection, and clearance reports
• Conduct feasibility studies and conductor thermal ratings ensuring standards compliance
• Develop client-facing technical deliverables and performance reports
• Perform internal quality checks on drawings and calculations
• Mentor and develop capability within cable systems engineering team
• Support business development through proposals, bid reviews, and client presentations

Key requirements

• CEng Chartered Engineer or professionally qualified with recognized electrical engineering institution
• Bachelor in Engineering (electrical or power engineering)
• Experience delivering projects for transmission system operators (e.g., National Grid, SSE, SPT)
• Experience up to 400 kV overhead line projects
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• CDAE accreditation is advantageous

• communication
• mentorship
• team leadership
• PLS-CADD modelling
• overhead line design
• line routing

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