HV Electrical Specialist

 
Vacancy Number:  27609
Category:  Engineering - Electrical
Job Type:  Full-time
 

Are you an experienced HV Electrical Specialist seeking a dynamic and impactful role? Join us in driving ESB’s ambitious Net Zero 2040 strategy as part of our DSO Site Acquisitions and Planning programme—a multimillion-euro capital investment initiative that will shape the future of Ireland’s energy infrastructure. In this pivotal position, you will play a key role in the technical assessment, planning, and development of cutting-edge substation infrastructure, grid connections, and associated offloading projects.

You will provide crucial leadership and expert guidance to the Site Acquisitions and Planning team, collaborating closely with local authorities, statutory bodies, customers, external consultants, land agents, and landowners. Your influence will extend from site identification through to project delivery, ensuring seamless coordination and the highest standards of quality and safety.

We are looking for someone with a solid foundation in project management and technical design, in-depth knowledge of safety procedures, and proven stakeholder management and communication skills. You will champion both innovative solutions and standardisation to consistently deliver exceptional results that meet evolving business needs.

As a valued member of our collaborative team, you’ll face new challenges daily, have the autonomy to determine your approach, and enjoy the support of dedicated colleagues. If you thrive on solving complex problems and want to make a tangible difference in the energy transition, we invite you to build your career with us.

We are looking for the following skills;

  • Strong technical knowledge in the design of high voltage substations, underground cables and overhead lines for transmission and distribution network infrastructure.
  • A proven track record and understanding for the complete lifecycle of a project from concept to delivery and handover to the client is key.
  • Strong Safety awareness and competency.

 

Key Responsibilities

  • Provide overall leadership in delivering technical solutions to support both the site acquisition and planning phases of new DSO projects.
  • Identify and implement best international practices for the planning and design of new grid infrastructure, covering applications from medium voltage to high voltage.
  • Represent the Site Acquisition & Planning Group as a subject matter expert in HV Electrical Design for Network Infrastructure as required, and participate in technical conferences to remain current with new technology developments.
  • Identify opportunities to improve current standard designs and report these insights to the standards team.
  • Fulfil the role of Project Supervisor Design Process (PSDP), preparing design risk assessments and preliminary health and safety documentation where necessary.
  • Update the design risk registers as needed throughout the project development phase.
  • Prepare specifications for new tenders, review designs, calculations, and reports, and manage technical requirements for procuring specialist services from contractors or consultants.
  • Work within a multi-disciplinary engineering team, providing proactive technical guidance to team members to deliver high-quality design solutions supporting the DSO Site Acquisitions and Planning programme.
  • Operate in accordance with agreed guidelines, policies, and procedures.

 

Experience and Qualifications 

Essential

  • Either level 8 in Electrical Engineering or equivalent work experience is essential.
  • A minimum of 8 years’ relevant experience.
  • A proven track record for delivery of designs for new transmission and distribution network infrastructure, with a strong understanding for the full lifecycle of a project including but not limited to, design, construction, commissioning and maintenance practices.
  • A strong understanding for the planning requirements relating to the route selection and installation of high voltage underground cables and overhead lines.
  • A good knowledge of international standards applicable to high voltage substations, cables and overhead lines (e.g. IEC, CIGRE).
  • Ability to work and share knowledge and competencies within a team structure, both through developing formal training and through on-the-job coaching /supervision of junior staff.
  • Experience and competency in the role of PSDP and fulfilling the required duties.
  • Strong project management capabilities and stakeholder management skills.
  • A flexible approach to work, and the demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities. 
  • Hold a full driving licence and have own car.

 

Desirable

  • Chartered Engineer Status

 

Location

This role is based in the ESB E&MP Dublin or Cork office but regular travel to project locations as required is a key requirement of the role.  

ESB is committed to smart working – combining digital tools with a culture of trust and empowerment to enable flexible ways of working. The successful candidate may work flexibly within their jurisdiction with attendance at the workplace for in-person collaboration on at least one anchor day per week. All smart working arrangements are subject to manager approval and ongoing review, based on the operational requirements of the role, the team, and the individual.

 

Reporting to 

Electrical Manager, Physical Design Team, Site Acquisitions & Planning Group, ESB Engineering and Major Projects. 

 

Why Work with Us? 

  • Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future 
  • Progressive, hybrid working model 
  • Career development through mentoring and training  
  • Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities 
  • Sports and Social Clubs 
  • Networking opportunities 
  • Credit Union 
  • Generous Pension 
  • Access to staff well-being programmes 
  • Generous parental leave entitlements 
  • Strong values-based and inclusive culture  
  • Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion  
  • Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted 

 

Salary 

€69,000 to €81,000 per annum 

 

Closing Date

23rd December 2025

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Statement

ESB is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applications from all sections of society and ensure that no one is discriminated against on the grounds of race, religion or belief, ethnicity or nationality, disability, age, citizenship, marital status, domestic or civil partnership status, sexual orientation or gender identity, or any other basis as protected by law. 

Applicants who anticipate requiring assistance or reasonable accommodations for any part of the application or interview process may contact, in confidence, recruitment@esb.ie.  

About ESB

Join us in our mission to achieve a net-zero electricity system by 2040. ESB is Ireland’s leading energy utility, with activities spanning electricity generation, transmission and distribution, energy supply, energy services and international consultancy. Operating in Ireland, Northern Ireland and Great Britain, we invest over €1 billion each year to deliver a new energy future based on reliable, affordable zero-carbon electricity.