Lead Control Automation System Engineer

Job Description Summary

Become part of a winning team and help to deliver the Green Energy transition.

As a Lead Control Automation System Engineer, you will be responsible to lead the requirement, design, implementation, and development of digital control system of the HVDC Control & Protection system.

As part of this role, you will be working closely across various engineering disciplines within HVDC business. Solution and engineering centre (NPI, ITO, OTR and Product Care) in all aspects of HVDC Control & Protection system, this includes developing organizational talent and Engineering process management, provide technical guidance, mentoring, drive consistent design practices, common global processes for projects implementation and also provide technical solution that meets the NPI, project delivery and Tender objectives.


In this pivotal technical leadership role, you will oversee everything from IEC 61850 architecture design and cybersecurity integration to Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and site commissioning.

We are looking for a hands-on technical leader with significant and demonstrated years of experience in control and protection design, deep expertise in IEC 61850 configuration, SCL file generation, and industrial networking (Layer 2/3 protocols), and a proven track record of mentoring engineering talent and delivering complex power system projects on time and within budget.

This role offer hybrid working (3 days onsite in Stafford required)

Job Description

Technical Leadership & Architecture

• Lead the overall requirements definition, design, implementation, and testing of digital control systems for HVDC Control & Protection, including network and cybersecurity architectures.
• Oversee the design of LAN networks and communication architectures, including the configuration of industrial Ethernet switches/routers and satellite clocks.
• Define and analyze main I/O lists and signal interfaces to ensure complete compatibility between the HVDC Control System, Balance of Plant (BoP) equipment, and SCADA systems.
• Actively collaborate with New Product Introduction (NPI) teams to configure Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), Bay Controllers (BCUs), and Merging Units for signal acquisition in digital substation environments.
• Provide technical leadership, coaching, and talent development for engineering team members.

Engineering & System Configuration

• Lead the configuration of IEC 61850 IEDs using vendor-specific tools and System Configuration Tools for complete system integration.
• Lead the generation of Substation Configuration Description Language (SCL) files.
• Apply deep knowledge of sequencing and interlocking principles in substation automation systems and their implementation on IEC 61850 IEDs.
• Define Control Panel requirements and produce detailed design documentation using standard design blocks and tools (e.g., Engineering Base), including:
  • Panel Electrical Schematics
  • Wire/Cable Schedules
  • Routine Test Specifications
  • General Assembly Drawings
  • Bill of Materials (BOM)
• Ensure adherence to departmental standard design practices, engineering reviews, and quality guidelines.

Testing, Commissioning & Support

• Lead the testing, debugging, and analysis of complex IEC 61850 communication systems using industry-standard tools (e.g., IEDScout, Wireshark).
• Oversee hardware design, configuration, and testing required to deliver the HVDC Control System on schedule and within budget.
• Oversee Factory Acceptance Testing (FAT) and lead customer witness testing.
• Assist site teams with installation, commissioning, and troubleshooting activities.
• Prepare and present technical information regarding Substation Control Systems to internal and external stakeholders.

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Review and approve design documents, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective deliverables on time.
• Continuously improve products and processes in terms of delivery speed, stability, and reliability.
• Ensure proper documentation and management of technical data generated for assigned projects in compliance with engineering policies and procedures.

Required Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Electrical/Electronics Engineering or a related technical field.

• Experience: significant and demonstrated progressive experience in control and protection system design and substation automation.

• Technical Expertise:
  • Strong background in configuring Substation Bay Controllers, Merging Units, IEC 61850 IEDs, and HMI/SCADA technologies.
  • In-depth knowledge of industrial communication networks, Ethernet-based protocols, and Control & Protection Relay logic design techniques.
  • Strong working knowledge of industrial and utility electrical control systems, Digital Control Systems (DCS), and Substation Automation.
  • Solid understanding of communication network security, hardening, and cybersecurity best practices.
  • Excellent knowledge of Layer 2 & Layer 3 protocols (e.g., IPv4, OSPF, LACP, DMZ, VPN, DNP3, IEC 60870-5-104, Modbus).

Desired Characteristics

• Leadership & Project Management: Proven technical leadership in a complex systems engineering environment; ability to independently make decisions, pull in cross-functional experts as needed, and execute programs on schedule.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Strong oral and written communication skills; proven ability to foster open dialogue, share engineering knowledge, and present complex concepts clearly to customers and leadership.

• Problem-Solving: Demonstrated analytical mindset with a strong track record of troubleshooting complex technical issues and exceeding reliability, quality, and cost targets.

About GE Grid Solutions:

At GE Grid Solutions we are electrifying the world with advanced grid technologies. As leaders in the energy space our goal is to accelerate the transition for a more energy efficient grid to full fill the needs of tomorrow. With a focus on growth and sustainability GE Grid Solutions plays a pivotable role in integrating Renewables onto the grid to drive to carbon neutral. In Grid Solutions we help enable the transition for a greener more reliable Grid. GE Grid Solutions has the most advanced and comprehensive product and solutions portfolio within the energy sector.

Why we come to work: At GE Renewable Energy, our engineers are always up for the challenge - and we’re always driven to find the best solution. Our projects are unique and interesting, and you’ll need to bring a solution-focused, positive approach to each one to do your best. Surrounded by committed, loyal colleagues, if you can dare to bring your ingenuity and desire to make an impact, you’ll be exposed to game-changing, diverse projects that truly allow you to play your part in the energy transition.

What we offer:

• Working in an international team which is part of global Engineering HVDC Centre of Excellence within Grid Integration based in Stafford.
• A key role in a dynamic, international working environment with a large degree of flexibility of work agreements
• Competitive benefits, and great development opportunities

Additional Information