Principal Consultant - Grid Services

Principal Consultant – Grid Services

London, Bristol, Cardiff, Plymouth, Leeds or Birmingham

Hoare Lea is a human‑centric and planet‑conscious engineering consultancy. We offer intelligent and sustainable solutions to complex design challenges for the built environment throughout the UK and further afield. We provide a wide range of engineering and consultancy services, including acoustics, air quality, building services (MEP), fire, lighting, security and sustainability – just to name a few.

Together, our highly skilled teams use technical expertise and problem‑solving skills to bring buildings to life. We ensure that whatever the building, its design is outstanding, and its operations meet the needs of the communities it serves. We are committed to providing an environment where everyone can realise their unique potential and support each other’s wellbeing, individuality, and professional growth.

Benefits include a 9‑day fortnight scheme, varied social and networking events, extensive professional and technical development programmes, private medical cover, an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, 25 days of annual leave (increasing with service), flexible and hybrid working, and a comprehensive benefits package.

We are looking for a Principal Consultant to join our Advisory & Advocacy (A&A) team – at the forefront of the UK’s energy transition. The role involves prioritising early‑stage development projects, partnering with landowners, developers and energy stakeholders to unlock grid capacity, de‑risk projects and create viable connection strategies within a constrained system.

• Support the transformation of the UK to an all‑electric nation by developing innovative strategies to obtain grid capacity where traditional approaches may fail, liaising closely with network designers and managers.
• Interpret complex utility requirements, identify risks and negotiate favourable terms to ensure infrastructure supports immediate delivery and long‑term asset value.
• Actively contribute to influencing Ofgem consultations and collaborating with UKGBC and Catapult to promote flexible, innovative approaches to grid connections.
• Drive solutions for connecting stranded generation with stranded demand through private wire and community energy models, enabling smarter and decentralised energy systems.

• A 2:1 degree or above in a relevant subject, with strong analytical thinking and an appetite for solving complex problems.
• Understanding of all grid codes and associated studies.
• Experience with PS CAD, DIg SILENT, Power Factory, EMT, Harmonic studies and direct NESO 275 kV and 400 kV applications.
• Proactive, adaptable and resilient approach to evolving project requirements and client needs.
• Enthusiastic about decarbonisation, infrastructure delivery and the transition to low‑carbon energy.
• Independent and comfortable challenging the status quo and exploring innovative utility solutions for new connections and diversions.
• Experience in running projects both independently and as part of a team.
• Proficiency in 2D/3D AutoCAD and/or Revit.

We provide a comprehensive benefits package including private medical cover, an electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme, stock options, 25 days of annual leave (increasing with service), flexible and hybrid working arrangements, and a supportive work culture that encourages wellbeing, learning, and individuality.