Head of Commissioning

Description:

Organisation Overview

* An established provider of integrated utility infrastructure solutions, delivering end-to-end technical expertise across energy and communications. The organisation supports next-generation infrastructure for customers across the UK and international markets, with a focus on safety, service quality, workplace culture and social responsibility.

Role Purpose

* We are seeking an experienced Head of Commissioning to take operational ownership of the commissioning process for extra-high-voltage substations and associated underground cable circuits from 11kV to 400kV.

* The role ensures commissioning works are executed safely and efficiently, in compliance with relevant standards, client specifications and programme requirements, delivering systems ready for energisation and final handover.

* The Head of Commissioning acts as the technical authority and single point of accountability for commissioning across multiple projects in the data centre, renewable, and industrial and commercial new-connections and infrastructure energy markets within the UK.

* This is a key role within the engineering team, accountable for safety, quality, programme, cost and client satisfaction, while leading a team of commissioning engineers. The postholder will lead the development and implementation of commissioning plans from initial design through construction and final handover.

* A strong background in substation commissioning is essential, with the confidence to lead complex projects through challenging site constraints, stakeholder demands and operational interfaces. Significant experience delivering large-scale engineering or infrastructure projects from 11kV to 132kV is required; transmission-connected project experience is preferred.

* The role sits within the Engineering team, part of the wider Operations function, and reports to the Engineering Director.

Key Responsibilities

* Lead and manage commissioning activities across multiple new-connections or infrastructure projects, from design development through construction and final handover.

* Lead, manage and mentor a team of Commissioning Engineers, including setting objectives, managing performance and creating structured development pathways.

* Oversee subcontractor and supply-chain performance, ensuring delivery quality, commercial compliance and safety standards.

* Ensure commissioning teams comply with the organisation’s SHEQ procedures, the Distribution Safety Rules and CDM regulations.

* Provide senior technical authority across commissioning matters up to 400kV, acting as the primary point of contact for internal teams and external stakeholders.

* Define commissioning strategy for 11kV–400kV projects, from design through final commissioning, ensuring alignment with engineering policies and procedures.

* Troubleshoot and resolve issues identified during commissioning, and prepare technical reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders.

* Develop commissioning plans and methodologies aligned with project requirements, integrating commissioning activities into the overall project programme.

* Work with the Engineering Standards team to define and maintain engineering standards, processes and assurance frameworks across the business.

* Facilitate attendance at Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), ensuring commissioning inputs are incorporated into project deliverables.

* Provide technical input into bids and tenders, ensuring commissioning methodologies and programmes support competitive, commercially sound submissions.

* Ensure appropriate resource planning, team structure and capability are in place to meet business needs.

Skills, Qualifications & Experience

* Proven experience leading commissioning engineers for a UK Distribution Network Operator (DNO), Transmission System Operator (TSO) or Independent Connection Provider (ICP).

* At least five years’ experience as a Senior Authorised Person or Commissioning Engineer working from 11kV up to 132kV in the UK; 400kV experience is desirable.

* Deep technical knowledge of HV plant and switchgear, substation design, cable systems, civil engineering, and protection and control.

* Ability to interpret and apply engineering standards across a broad portfolio of projects.

* Strong understanding of the UK Distribution Safety Rules.

* Strong understanding of DNO G81 technical standards, the NERS scheme and the requirements of other statutory bodies.

* Experience supporting tendering, estimation and work-winning activities.

* Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, including the ability to interpret complex data and identify root causes.

* Minimum HNC in Electrical or Civil Engineering, or equivalent.

* Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to collaborate across departments and present confidently.

* Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to sites as required