Substation Commissioning Engineer

Job Description

Role Overview
The Commissioning Engineer supports project-based works, portfolios of projects, and ad-hoc repairs, ensuring the commissioning and integration of protection, control, and SCADA systems across all distribution asset classes (overhead lines, underground cables, substations, civil works, and work programmes). The role involves undertaking all aspects of commissioning activities to ensure assets are fit for purpose and meet regulatory and customer obligations.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform pre-commissioning inspection prior to off-load commissioning tests.
• Check detailed schematics against connections, protection, and tripping logic diagrams.
• Attend Factory Acceptance Testing and project-specific meetings as required.
• Conduct off-load commissioning checks, including:
• Witness testing of primary substation plant (circuit breakers, switches/disconnectors, transformers, voltage and current transformers).
• Insulation resistance, primary and secondary injection tests.
• Circuit logic tests against DC schematic diagrams.
• Testing integral relay logic.
• Protection relay checks (distance relays, feeder differential, transformer differential, frequency, G99 type, high impedance busbar, blocked busbar protection).
• Auto-reclose scheme checks.
• Intertripping and signalling equipment checks.
• Testing integration of protection systems with control and SCADA using DNP3 and IEC61850 protocols.
• Testing and proving relay programmable logic files, relay setting files, and DNP3 communication files.
• Interface with customers, internal and external resources.
• Complete all work in line with company objectives (time, cost, quality).
• Accurately record all time spent on projects and provide timely reports on progress and status.
• Provide guidance and support to other members of the Protection Commissioning Team.
• Use and update company data and information systems, including comprehensive commissioning records and on-site fault/defect investigations.
• Undertake duties under the CDM Regulations as Designer and/or Contractor.

Qualifications

Knowledge & Qualifications

• Minimum Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Electrical Engineering.
• TP141 OR SR141 OR CE141 Certification Essential
• Proven working history in the electricity distribution/transmission industry delivering protection commissioning, typically with 10+ years’ experience practicing as a Commissioning Engineer.
• Skills, experience, and detailed knowledge of protection on all distribution asset classes of switchgear, transformers, and feeders at all voltages up to and including 400Kv.
• High level of professionalism, able to work under pressure and to tight timescales.
• Strong preference for recent experience in commissioning protection systems associated with generation connections, including integration with legacy protection and control systems.
• Must either possess or be capable to successfully obtain and maintain the following Company Operational Authorisation requirements:
• A1 Access and Supervision to substations controlled by a level 3 key.
• A2.1 and A2.4 Access and Supervision to open compounds.
• O11.11 Testing & Commissioning of all Primary S/S & Bulk Supply Point protection up to & including 132kV.
• O11.18 Work on protection, control, and equipment including assisting an engineer with the testing & operation of relays and isolated plant.
• Willingness to travel between work locations, sites, and company/supplier offices.
• Current and valid UK driving licence.

Additional Information

Additional Information

• Services are delivered nationally.
• Expenses for travel and accommodation incurred for company needs will be paid separately, subject to company allowances and contract terms.
• The allocation and mix of project work may vary and will be determined by company priorities.
• All work should be performed in strict accordance with company processes, procedures, and industry best practice.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

We at EGIS are an Equal Opportunities employer and we recognise the value of a Diverse Organisation. EGIS appreciates all job applications. If you decide to apply for an opportunity at EGIS, your application will be assessed based purely on your experience, the essential and desirable criteria, and your suitability for the role. We value each and everyone’s contribution as this builds our culture and means, if you work for EGIS, you will be included, listened to, and respected.