HV Main Plant Design Engineer

About Kirby Group Engineering
Kirby Group Engineering is an international multi-disciplinary engineering services contractor and leading provider of high-value engineering services to a number of ‘blue chip’ companies. Operating across Ireland, the UK and Europe, Kirby has become the engineering service provider of choice in growth segments such as pharmaceuticals, data centres and power transmission and distribution. Our culture is innovative, collaborative and performance focused. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to grow and develop in a company committed to developing talent and rewarding performance.
Job Summary
We are seeking a highly skilled HV Main Plant Design Engineer to join our engineering team. In this role, you will be responsible for the design and development of high-voltage (HV) substation primary plant systems. Your work will be essential to the successful delivery of substation projects that enable the reliable transmission and distribution of electrical power across the grid.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and deliver the primary plant design for high-voltage substations (typically 33kV to 400kV).
• Develop design drawings, layouts, and technical specifications for busbars, circuit breakers, disconnectors, instrument transformers, and associated steelwork and foundations.
• Produce detailed substation layouts including general arrangements, equipment elevations, and cable/conduit routing.
• Coordinate with civil, protection, control, and secondary systems teams to ensure an integrated and accurate design approach.
• Perform technical assessments and feasibility studies during early project phases.
• Support procurement by preparing technical specifications and evaluating vendor documentation.
• Participate in design reviews, HAZID/HAZOP workshops, and ensure designs comply with client specifications, national standards, and safety regulations.
• Provide technical support during construction, commissioning, and handover phases.
• Interface with clients, project managers, and stakeholders to ensure clarity and alignment throughout project delivery.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in HV substation primary plant design.
• Solid understanding of the layout and operation of high-voltage substations, including AIS and GIS technologies.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., AutoCAD, Primtech) and other design tools.
• Familiarity with UK National Grid, IEC, or other relevant standards.
• Strong knowledge of electrical safety, grounding, clearances, and insulation coordination.
• Excellent communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
• Chartered Engineer status (or working towards it) is preferred.