Overhead Lines Design Engineer
Job Description
Salary: £45,000–£65,000 + overtime + benefits
Location: Derby
Type: Permanent
Overview:
A major power & utilities engineering company in Derby is seeking an Overhead Lines Design Engineer to deliver OHL designs across 11kV, 33kV, 66kV and 132kV networks. You’ll handle full design responsibility — from route feasibility and tower/wood pole design through to structural calculations, technical packs and site support. Huge progression opportunities into Senior/Principal level as the department expands.
Responsibilities:
• Produce detailed overhead line designs for wood pole and steel tower systems (11kV–132kV)
• Complete structural calculations for conductor loads, pole foundations, uplift and clearances
• Conduct route feasibility assessments, constraints analysis and design risk evaluations
• Produce construction drawings, profiles, stringing charts, layout plans and full design packs
• Specify poles, conductors, insulators, fittings, stays, foundations and associated materials
• Liaise with civil, electrical, environmental and project engineering teams
• Ensure compliance with ENA TS standards, DNO specifications and CDM regulations
• Undertake site visits, surveys, tower inspections and client meetings
• Support project managers with variations, design queries and technical decisions
• Contribute to safety improvements, value engineering and continuous improvement
Requirements:
• Experience designing overhead line systems (wood pole and/or steel lattice towers)
• Strong understanding of conductor behaviour, line loading, clearances and OHL design principles
• Proficient with design tools such as PLS-CADD, PLS-Pole, Tower or similar
• Ability to produce calculations, drawings and complete technical documentation
• Strong knowledge of ENA standards, DNO/NG designs and industry safety requirements
• Engineering degree/HNC in electrical, civil or mechanical disciplines
• Strong communication skills and ability to work across multi-disciplinary teams
Benefits:
• Clear progression to Senior, Lead or Principal OHL Design Engineer
• Training on PLS-CADD, PLS-Pole and advanced OHL modelling (if required)
• Hybrid working and flexible hours
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays
• Pension, healthcare and overtime options
• Involvement in major UK power infrastructure projects
• Long-term job security within a growing power engineering business
