Design Engineer
This company provides tailored automation and control system solutions to clients operating in industrial and critical infrastructure sectors. With over two decades of experience, the organisation brings strong technical expertise across areas such as power systems, switchgear, industrial networking, SCADA, protection and control, and substation cybersecurity.
Its engineering team is made up of experienced professionals who work across a variety of automation platforms. The business promotes a collaborative culture, supports continuous learning, and encourages professional development to help both employees and the organisation succeed.
Position Overview
The Design Engineer role is a technically focused position centred on engineering ownership, system design, and technical decision-making.
This individual is responsible for developing engineering solutions, defining system architecture, and providing clear technical direction to drafting teams who produce detailed documentation. The Design Engineer ensures all deliverables meet required standards for quality, accuracy, and compliance.
The role also involves regular interaction with clients and internal teams to translate requirements into practical, buildable solutions.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering Design & Technical Leadership
- Develop electrical and control system designs across areas such as automation, power systems, SCADA, protection systems, and industrial networks
- Define system architecture, select appropriate equipment, and ensure compliance with recognised industry standards (e.g. IEC, IEEE, ANSI, UL, NFPA)
- Convert functional and contractual requirements into detailed engineering designs and specifications
- Act as the technical lead for design-related discussions with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders
- Lead design reviews and contribute to technical decision-making throughout project lifecycle
- Identify technical risks, gaps, or ambiguities and implement effective solutions
Drafting Oversight
- Provide clear design intent and technical guidance to drafting teams
- Review and approve drawings to ensure accuracy, completeness, and alignment with project requirements
- Ensure all documentation reflects approved engineering decisions
- Support the development of junior engineers and drafters through mentorship and knowledge sharing
Project Execution Support
- Participate in project kickoff meetings, design reviews, and handovers
- Work closely with project management teams to align engineering deliverables with schedules and milestones
- Support manufacturing and field teams by resolving technical queries and clarifying design intent
- Assist with testing, inspections, and commissioning activities when required
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Conduct technical discussions with clients to define requirements and resolve design-related issues
- Support proposal development and change evaluations from a technical standpoint
- Maintain a professional presence in all external interactions
Cybersecurity & Compliance
- Follow internal policies relating to information security and system access
- Ensure secure handling of design documents, configurations, and sensitive data
- Protect system credentials and engineering files from unauthorised access
- Collaborate with quality and security teams to ensure compliance with relevant standards
- Report potential risks or security concerns in a timely manner
- Incorporate cybersecurity best practices into system design and reviews
Training & Development
- Participate in ongoing training to stay current with industry standards and emerging technologies
- Complete required information security and compliance training
- Engage in technical workshops, certifications, and internal knowledge-sharing sessions
- Maintain records of completed training activities for quality and audit purposes
Preferred Technical Background
Experience in one or more of the following areas is advantageous:
- Substation design and protection & control systems
- Medium and low voltage switchgear
- Industrial control panel design
- Protection relays and intelligent electronic devices (IEDs)
- SCADA systems, RTUs, and control architectures
- Power distribution and monitoring systems
- Projects within regulated or critical infrastructure environments
Tools & Documentation
- Experience reviewing and approving technical drawings and engineering documentation
- Familiarity with controlled document environments and revision processes
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools for documentation and communication
Role Expectations
- Ability to work independently on most design tasks
- Seek guidance for complex or high-risk technical challenges
- Provide technical support and guidance to junior team members
Core Competencies
- Strong engineering judgement and analytical skills
- Technical leadership and ownership mindset
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to collaborate across multiple teams
- Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
- Adaptability and problem-solving capability
Additional Skills (Testing & Troubleshooting)
- Understanding of electrical safety practices
- Experience using testing equipment
- Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics
- Strong troubleshooting capability
- Attention to detail
Travel Requirements
- Occasional local travel may be required
Working Environment
- Office-based environment with moderate noise levels
Physical Requirements
- Primarily desk-based work involving computer use
- Occasional standing, walking, and reaching may be required
- Close visual focus required for detailed engineering work
Additional Information
- Responsibilities may change depending on project and business needs
Benefits
- Competitive benefits package including paid time off and holidays
- Health, dental, and vision coverage
- Retirement plan with employer contribution
- Life insurance and disability benefits
- Additional employee support offerings
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your CV and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organisations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
Yes, we help with CV and interview preparation. From customised support on how to optimise your CV to interview preparation and compensation negotiations, we advocate for you throughout your next career move.