Lead Engineer, Electrical Planning and Design

The Lead Engineer, Electrical Planning and Design at National Grid is responsible for key actions like developing system protection and control standards, representing the company in industry forums, and providing technical guidance in IEC 61850 standards. You'll review designs and ensure they meet technical policies while collaborating with various departments to deliver customized solutions, ensuring a cohesive approach to projects.

To qualify for the Lead Engineer, Electrical Planning and Design role at National Grid, candidates need to hold a Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or technology from an accredited institution and have at least 6 years of relevant work experience. Familiarity with industry standards like IEC 61850 and IEEE, along with effective communication skills, is essential for success in this role.

Relevant experience for the Lead Engineer, Electrical Planning and Design position at National Grid includes a strong background in electric power facilities, particularly focused on protection and control systems. Additional skills in electrical panel design, troubleshooting, and familiarity with emerging technologies enhance a candidate's profile and align with the organization's innovative vision.

National Grid emphasizes professional growth by providing a clear career path for the Lead Engineer, Electrical Planning and Design role. As you gain experience and develop technical skills, there are ample opportunities for advancement both within and across bands, ensuring a fulfilling long-term career with the company.

The salary range for a Lead Engineer, Electrical Planning and Design at National Grid is between $150,000 and $176,000, reflecting the level of expertise and experience required for this pivotal role in advancing the company's sustainability goals.

When discussing your experience with IEC 61850, focus on specific projects where you implemented these standards. Explain how your contributions improved system efficiency, met regulatory requirements, or advanced digital substation initiatives, showcasing your technical knowledge and adaptability in this area.

A strong answer would include mentioning collaboration with team members, thorough research on industry best practices, and your approach to balancing safety, reliability, and innovation in developing protection and control standards that align with National Grid's mission.

Emphasize your problem-solving methodology, including identifying key issues, engaging relevant stakeholders for insight, and applying analytical tools or simulations to devise effective, innovative solutions that accentuate your capability as a Lead Engineer.

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning, such as attending professional workshops, participating in industry conferences, or collaborating with peers. Mention any specific journals or publications you follow to ensure your knowledge remains up-to-date and relevant.

Highlight qualities such as effective communication, the ability to inspire and mentor, decision-making skills, and the capacity to foster collaboration within teams. Make sure to illustrate how you have exemplified these traits in your previous roles.

Explain your criteria for project success, which might include metrics such as achieving project milestones on time, adhering to budget constraints, meeting safety standards, and receiving positive feedback from stakeholders and team members regarding effectiveness and communication.

Share a specific instance where you identified a problem, the steps you took to diagnose the issue, the solution you implemented, and the positive outcome. This will demonstrate your practical application of knowledge and your ability to remain calm under pressure.

Discuss your strategies for effective stakeholder communication, emphasizing how you ensure their needs and feedback are considered throughout the project lifecycle and how this leads to successful project delivery and stakeholder satisfaction.

Describe your method for assessing new technologies, considering aspects like compatibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential performance improvements. Include an example of how you've successfully integrated new tools or systems in your past work to highlight your strategic thinking.

Share your passion for innovation, sustainability, and engineering excellence. Discuss how the opportunity to contribute to impactful projects, such as those at National Grid, aligns with your professional aspirations and values, thereby showcasing your genuine interest in the role.