Overview

Electrical Design Engineer - Overhead Lines (OHL) – Jacobs, Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and design documentation using software tools such as PLS-CADD, AutoCAD and Microstation
• Overseeing technical activities, line routing, sag-tension calculations, structure analysis, conductor selection, clearance reports, and design documentation
• Preparing and reviewing proposals and reports detailing project scope, timelines, budgets, and resource allocations
• Regularly engaging in client-facing design reviews and technical workshops
• Leading and mentoring a team of specialist design engineers working on overhead transmission line solutions
• Identifying and manage project risks to ensure successful delivery
• Promoting a strong safety culture
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with internal teams, stakeholders, and clients to drive project success

What you'll need

• Proven expertise in managing end-to-end overhead line projects—from route selection through to detailed design (particularly with National Grid)
• Lead engineer overseeing all technical aspects of overhead line design, including towers, poles, and foundations, from proposal to execution phases
• Proficient in industry-standard software such as PLS-CADD, PLS-Tower, PLS-Pole, and AutoDesk tools
• Strong background in key design activities including sag-tension calculations, load analysis, definition of insulator based on loads, structure weight optimization, and foundation design
• Experienced in conducting a wide range of field activities such as walkover surveys, foundation testing, route optimization, and site inspections
• Competent in cost and quantity estimation, vendor coordination, supply chain management, and proposal hour estimation

Why Jacobs?

People are Jacobs’ greatest asset, and we offer a competitive package to retain and attract the best talent. In addition to the benefits you’d expect, UK employees also receive free single medical cover and digital GP service, family-friendly benefits such as enhanced parental leave pay and free membership of employee assistance and parental programmes, plus reimbursement towards relevant professional development and memberships. We also give back to our communities through our Collectively program which incorporates matched-funding, paid volunteering time and charitable donations. Work-life balance and flexibility is a key focus area for Jacobs. We’re happy to discuss hybrid, part-time and flexible working hours, patterns and locations to suit you and our business.