Operational Engineer

Are you an experienced Operational Engineer ready to take ownership of high‑impact electricity infrastructure projects? UK Power Networks Services is seeking a skilled Operational Engineer to join our Projects East team, based in Bury St Edmunds, supporting critical private and DNO networks across the UKPN footprint. This is a permanent opportunity offering a salary of £65,241, a company car, and a 3% bonus, alongside an industry‑leading benefits package.

Reporting to the Lead Operational Engineer, you will play a central role in delivering construction and maintenance programmes across voltages ranging from 400V to 33kV. Working closely with the Client Delivery Manager, engineers, technicians, apprentices, contractors, and clients, you will help deliver capital construction projects and planned and reactive maintenance safely, efficiently, and with minimal disruption to customers' electricity supplies. You will oversee substation and cabling works, operate and test HV and LV distribution protection systems, carry out commissioning activities on both private and DNO networks, and ensure full compliance with CDM regulations, Distribution Safety Rules, and UK Power Networks Services' health, safety, and quality policies.

This role offers real responsibility and variety within a pressurised, delivery‑focused environment. You will co‑ordinate daily construction and maintenance activities, manage site teams and contractors, develop site‑specific health, safety and environmental procedures, and ensure safe systems of work are followed at all times. You will investigate faults, deliver repairs, modify equipment and drawings, update asset databases, and collate, approve, and finalise as‑built drawings. You will also contribute to budgeting, procurement, change management, risk identification, continuous improvement initiatives, and the development of ongoing maintenance and asset management plans. Participation in a standby rota, working unsocial hours, and travelling across the UKPN footprint are essential parts of maintaining resilient client infrastructure.

To succeed, you will be a Senior Authorised Person up to 11kV with an ONC in Electrical Engineering or equivalent, a full driving licence, and strong working knowledge of distribution HV systems, building services systems, and engineering drawings. You must be able to work in varied environments, manage multiple priorities, and make sound decisions under pressure, while using tools such as Microsoft Office, Outlook, MS Project, and bespoke systems. Authorisation up to 33kV, an HNC, NEBOSH qualification, and knowledge of UK Power Networks Services processes are desirable. Appointment is subject to medical screening, drugs and alcohol testing, security clearance, and a DBS check.

If you're ready to step into a role where your expertise directly supports vital electrical infrastructure and client satisfaction, apply now. The closing date for applications is 12 April 2026