Head of Commissioning

Head of Commissioning (HV Substations & Power Infrastructure)

Location: UK (with travel to project sites as required)

Salary: Up to £140k 

The Client:
A leading provider of utility and energy infrastructure solutions, delivering complex power projects across the Data Centre, Renewables, Industrial and Commercial sectors. To establish further ownership of projects the client is seeking an experienced Head of Commissioning to lead and develop the commissioning function across high-voltage and extra high-voltage projects.

The Role:
As Head of Commissioning you will take ownership of all commissioning activities across substations and associated cable infrastructure from 11kV to 400kV. Acting as the technical authority for commissioning, you will ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards, from design development through to energisation and final handover. Build, Develop & Lead a team of commissioning engineers, playing a key role in driving technical excellence, maintaining compliance, supporting business growth, and building strong client relationships across multiple projects nationwide.

Key Responsibilities
Lead commissioning activities across multiple power and infrastructure projects from design through to final handover.
Manage, mentor and develop a team of commissioning engineers.
Act as the senior technical authority for commissioning activities up to 400kV.
Develop commissioning strategies, methodologies, and project plans.
Ensure compliance with safety regulations, industry standards, and client requirements.
Collaborate closely with engineering, construction, and project delivery teams.
Provide technical support for tenders, bids, and business development opportunities.
Oversee subcontractor performance and uphold quality and safety standards.
Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, network operators, and key stakeholders.
Drive continuous improvement, innovation, and operational excellence across the commissioning function.About You
Proven experience leading commissioning teams within a DNO, TSO, ICP, EPC contractor, or similar power infrastructure environment.
Extensive commissioning or Senior Authorised Person experience across 11kV to 132kV, with exposure to 400kV highly desirable.
Strong technical knowledge of substations, switchgear, protection & control systems, cable networks, and HV plant.
Excellent understanding of UK Distribution Safety Rules, G81 standards, NERS requirements, and CDM regulations.
Experience delivering large-scale power infrastructure or new connection projects.
Able to influence stakeholders, solve complex technical challenges, and lead high-performing teams.
HNC/HND or Degree in Electrical Engineering (or equivalent).
Full UK Driving Licence.This is an opportunity to shape and lead a growing commissioning function within a forward-thinking infrastructure business delivering some of the UK's most significant energy, data centre, and renewable power projects. You'll have the autonomy to influence standards, develop people, and play a key role in delivering critical infrastructure for the future.

With over 90 years' combined experience, NES Fircroft (NES) is proud to be the world's leading engineering staffing provider spanning the Oil & Gas, Power & Renewables, Chemicals, Construction & Infrastructure, Life Sciences, Mining and Manufacturing sectors worldwide. With more than 80 offices in 45 countries, we are able to provide our clients with the engineering and technical expertise they need, wherever and whenever it is needed. We offer contractors far more than a traditional recruitment service, supporting with everything from securing visas and work permits, to providing market-leading benefits packages and accommodation, ensuring they are safely and compliantly able to support our clients