Primary Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Primary Design Manager

Company: GE Vernova

Location: Glasgow, United Kingdom (with potential for Stafford, England)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering Management / Operations (focused on Project Design & Delivery)

Date Posted: 2026-09-25

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and coordinate global engineering teams in the design and delivery of high-voltage (HV/EHV) substation projects, focusing on primary plant design.

• Ensure engineering outputs meet stringent quality, safety, and regulatory standards, particularly within the UK's energy transmission and distribution frameworks.

• Drive the development and review of integrated 3D models, general arrangement drawings, and layout designs, leveraging CAD and BIM technologies.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers, fostering a culture of engineering excellence and continuous improvement.

• Act as a key liaison between clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to resolve technical queries and ensure successful project execution.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Primary Design Manager," the responsibilities and required experience lean heavily into a Senior Design Engineering role with significant leadership and coordination duties. The "Manager" aspect appears to be more about leading design efforts and teams rather than direct people management in a traditional HR sense, especially given the global, remote team coordination. The role is critical for the Green Energy transition, emphasizing the strategic importance of robust substation design.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate remote global engineering teams within the GE Vernova Global Engineering Centre to ensure timely and high-quality delivery of engineering outputs.

• Spearhead the primary plant design for High Voltage (HV) and Extra High Voltage (EHV) substations, encompassing Air Insulated Switchgear (AIS), Gas Insulated Switchgear (GIS), and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) systems, ensuring strict adherence to relevant standards.

• Develop, review, and approve comprehensive integrated 3D models, general arrangement drawings, section drawings, and detailed layout designs to meet project specifications.

• Meticulously review and approve vendor drawings and specifications, verifying their alignment with project technical requirements and quality standards.

• Ensure strict compliance with all applicable national regulations, with a specific emphasis on UK Health & Safety regulations such as the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations 2015 (CDM 2015).

• Implement and champion best practices in design for safety and robust quality assurance throughout the entire project lifecycle, from conception to completion.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional engineering disciplines, including civil, protection & control, system studies, valves, and building services teams, to achieve a fully integrated and optimized substation design.

• Provide strong technical leadership, mentorship, and guidance to junior engineers, fostering their professional development and enhancing the team's overall capabilities.

• Act as a primary technical point of contact, liaising effectively with clients, project stakeholders, and suppliers to proactively resolve technical queries and challenges.

• Uphold rigorous quality assurance processes and design governance protocols across all project phases to maintain the highest standards of engineering delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design expertise and team coordination, emphasizing leadership in delivering complex HV/EHV substation projects. The focus on UK regulations (CDM 2015) and specific client types (UK Transmission and Distribution) suggests a need for deep domain knowledge within that specific market.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or an equivalent engineering discipline. Experience:

• Significant demonstrated experience in the end-to-end design of High Voltage (HV) substations, covering both tender/bidding and project execution phases.

• Proven track record in leading and coordinating engineering efforts, ideally with exposure to global or remote teams. Required Skills:

• HV/EHV Substation Design: Deep understanding of primary plant design principles for AIS, GIS, and potentially HVDC substations.

• UK Grid Standards: Strong knowledge of UK Transmission (e.g., National Grid, SSE, SPEN, NGED, UKPN) and Distribution standards and practices.

• CAD & 3D Modeling: Proficiency in Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software and practical experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) and 3D modeling tools such as Revit and Navisworks.

• Regulatory Compliance: Familiarity with UK Health & Safety regulations, specifically CDM 2015, and a strong understanding of safe-by-design principles.

• Technical Leadership: Ability to provide technical direction, mentorship, and support to engineering teams.

• Quality Assurance & Governance: Experience in implementing and maintaining quality assurance processes and design governance throughout a project lifecycle.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Proven ability to work effectively with diverse engineering disciplines (civil, protection & control, etc.).

• Communication & Stakeholder Management: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage effectively with clients, stakeholders, and suppliers.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with specific GE Vernova or industry-standard project management methodologies.

• Awareness of system studies related to power systems.

• Experience with valve and building services integration in substation design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on UK grid standards and CDM 2015 is a critical differentiator, suggesting that candidates with direct experience in the UK market will be highly preferred. Proficiency in BIM/3D tools is noted as advantageous, implying that while CAD is required, advanced modeling skills will set candidates apart.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase detailed case studies of past HV/EHV substation primary design projects, highlighting your specific contributions and technical solutions.

• Include examples of complex 3D models, general arrangement drawings, and layout designs that demonstrate your proficiency in CAD and BIM tools.

• Present documentation that illustrates your understanding and application of UK regulatory standards, such as CDM 2015, and safety-by-design principles.

• Demonstrate how you have reviewed and approved vendor technical documentation, ensuring alignment with project requirements and quality standards.

• Provide evidence of your experience in coordinating with cross-functional engineering teams to achieve integrated substation designs. Process Documentation:

• Documented workflows for the primary design phase of HV/EHV substations, from concept to detailed design.

• Examples of quality assurance checks and design governance processes implemented during the design lifecycle.

• Case studies detailing the resolution of technical queries or challenges involving clients, stakeholders, or suppliers.

• Evidence of mentorship and technical guidance provided to junior engineers within a project context.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role of this nature, a portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate the process and impact. Candidates should be prepared to walk through a design process, explain their decision-making, and highlight how their work contributed to project success, safety, and compliance. The emphasis on UK standards means portfolio items should reflect this specific context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the role's seniority, location (Glasgow, UK), and specialized engineering expertise in HV/EHV substations, a competitive salary is expected. Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Design Engineers and Engineering Managers in the UK power sector, the estimated annual salary range is likely between £65,000 and £90,000. This estimate accounts for the required experience level (5-10 years), technical specialization, leadership responsibilities, and the specific demands of the UK energy market.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health insurance package, likely including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Generous paid time off (PTO), including annual leave, public holidays, and potential for sick leave.

• Pension scheme with company contributions, aligning with UK employment standards.

• Professional development opportunities, including training, certifications, and access to industry conferences.

• Potential for performance-based bonuses or incentives.

• Access to GE Vernova's employee assistance programs and well-being initiatives.

• Opportunities to contribute to significant projects within the global energy transition. Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• While on-site, there may be flexibility depending on project demands, with potential for occasional overtime to meet critical project milestones.

• The role requires coordination with global teams, which might necessitate occasional adjustments to working hours to accommodate different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on general UK engineering management roles with specialized power sector experience. Actual compensation will depend on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and negotiation. Benefits are standard for large, multinational engineering firms in the UK.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy Sector, specifically Grid System Integration (GSI) and Power Technologies. GE Vernova is a major player in the global energy transition, focusing on clean energy solutions.

Company Size: GE Vernova is a large, multinational corporation, likely employing thousands globally. This provides stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for career advancement.

Founded: GE Vernova was established as a distinct entity from GE in 2024, though its legacy and operations are built upon decades of experience within GE's energy businesses. This implies a blend of established practices and a forward-looking, agile approach to the evolving energy market.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within the North Europe Grid System Integration (GSI) team, which focuses on turnkey high voltage AC and DC transmission projects.

• This team likely comprises a diverse group of engineers (electrical, civil, mechanical, control & instrumentation), project managers, and technical specialists.

• The Primary Design Manager will lead and coordinate remote global engineering teams, suggesting a matrixed reporting structure where direct reports might be in different geographical locations.

• Close collaboration with other internal functions like civil, protection & control, system studies, and building services teams is essential for integrated design. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on leveraging data from system studies, client requirements, and regulatory standards to inform design decisions.

• Integrated Design Approach: A strong focus on ensuring all engineering disciplines are aligned and contribute to a cohesive, optimized substation design.

• Safety and Quality First: A culture that prioritizes safety in design (safe-by-design) and rigorous quality assurance processes throughout the project lifecycle.

• Global Collaboration: Utilization of digital tools and communication strategies to effectively manage and coordinate teams across different time zones and locations.

Company Website: https://www.ge.com/verniva/

📝 Enhancement Note: GE Vernova's mission in the energy transition is a significant cultural driver. Candidates should align with this vision and demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and opportunities within the renewable energy integration space. The global team coordination aspect implies a need for strong remote collaboration skills and cultural awareness.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level within the engineering and project delivery framework. It requires substantial technical expertise in HV/EHV substation design and demonstrated leadership in coordinating engineering efforts. The "Manager" title suggests a step up from a pure individual contributor role, involving oversight, mentorship, and strategic input into design processes.

Reporting Structure: The Primary Design Manager will likely report to a Head of Engineering, a Senior Project Manager, or a Director of Engineering within the GSI team. They will, in turn, lead and coordinate teams of engineers, potentially distributed globally.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the successful delivery of critical energy infrastructure projects. High-quality, compliant, and efficient primary substation designs are foundational to the reliable integration of renewable energy sources and the overall stability of the power grid. This role directly contributes to GE Vernova's mission of electrifying the world and accelerating the energy transition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas of HV/EHV substation design (e.g., GIS technology, HVDC systems, advanced grid integration solutions).

• Project Leadership: Progress into more senior project management roles or lead larger, more complex turnkey projects.

• Team Management: Transition into formal people management roles with direct reports, focusing on team development and strategic resource allocation.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or in different GE Vernova global engineering centers.

• Industry Influence: Become a subject matter expert, contributing to industry standards development or technical publications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Primary Design Manager can diverge towards technical leadership, project management, or formal people management. GE Vernova's scale offers diverse avenues for professional growth. Candidates should consider which path aligns best with their long-term aspirations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, requiring the candidate to work from a GE Vernova office location in Glasgow or potentially Stafford. This environment is expected to be a professional office setting designed for collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s):

• Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom: The primary advertised location.

• Stafford, England, United Kingdom: Mentioned as an alternative location, suggesting potential flexibility or that teams may span across these sites.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Office spaces are likely designed to facilitate teamwork, with meeting rooms, project areas, and potentially open-plan workstations.

• Tools and Technology: Access to high-performance workstations equipped with necessary design software (CAD, BIM, project management tools).

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with local engineering teams, project managers, and other functional leads, as well as virtual collaboration tools for remote teams.

• Industry Exposure: Being part of a leading energy company means exposure to cutting-edge technology and significant infrastructure projects.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week.

• While the role is on-site, the nature of global project coordination may require some flexibility in daily working hours to liaise with teams in different time zones. However, the core expectation is presence during standard UK business hours for local collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement is a key factor. Candidates should be prepared for a traditional office-based role, with the understanding that global coordination may introduce some non-standard working hour interactions. The presence of two potential UK locations might offer some flexibility during the hiring process.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial call to assess basic qualifications, salary expectations, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on technical expertise, leadership experience, and understanding of substation design. Be prepared to discuss your background related to HV/EHV design, UK standards, and team coordination.

• Technical/Design Challenge: A case study or technical assessment may be administered. This could involve reviewing a design problem, proposing solutions, or discussing best practices for a specific design scenario. Your portfolio will be crucial here.

• Team/Panel Interview: An opportunity to meet potential colleagues and other stakeholders. Questions will likely focus on collaboration style, problem-solving approaches, and how you would integrate into the existing team dynamics.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion, potentially with senior leadership, followed by a formal job offer.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-4 of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase your HV/EHV substation primary design experience, especially those involving UK clients or standards.

• Focus on Process and Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your role, the design process you followed, the tools used, the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, safety improvements, successful compliance).

• Highlight UK Compliance: If possible, include examples demonstrating your understanding and application of UK regulations like CDM 2015 and specific transmission/distribution standards.

• Showcase 3D Modeling/BIM: Include visual examples of 3D models, general arrangements, and layout drawings. Be prepared to explain your contribution to these deliverables.

• Prepare a Concise Presentation: Aim for a 15-20 minute presentation of your portfolio, leaving ample time for Q&A. Practice articulating your contributions clearly and concisely.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review UK Standards: Revisit key aspects of UK transmission and distribution standards and CDM 2015.

• Practice Design Scenarios: Think about common challenges in substation primary design (e.g., site constraints, equipment selection, integration of new technologies, safety protocols) and how you would approach them.

• Understand GE Vernova's Context: Research GE Vernova's current projects, their role in the energy transition, and their key technologies. Tailor your responses to reflect this understanding.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio review is likely a critical component of the interview process. Candidates should treat it as a presentation opportunity to demonstrate their expertise, problem-solving skills, and alignment with GE Vernova's project requirements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD platforms for creating detailed engineering drawings (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation).

• 3D Modeling & BIM Software: Experience with tools like Autodesk Revit and Navisworks for integrated 3D modeling, clash detection, and visualization of substation designs.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools for project planning, tracking, and reporting (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or GE Vernova's internal systems).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from system studies, performance reports, and design reviews to inform decisions.

• Reporting Tools: Experience in generating technical reports, design summaries, and compliance documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design specifications feed into procurement and project execution systems is beneficial.

• Familiarity with workflow automation within design processes, though this is more about efficient use of design tools than dedicated automation platforms.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in using tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for communication and collaboration with remote and global teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The explicit mention of BIM and 3D tools like Revit and Navisworks indicates a modern approach to design. Candidates should highlight their experience with these technologies and their ability to integrate them into the design workflow for enhanced efficiency and accuracy.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Engineering Excellence: A commitment to high-quality, technically sound engineering solutions that meet and exceed project requirements.

• Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing safety in all design decisions and ensuring adherence to all relevant regulations and standards.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive and collaborative environment, especially crucial when working with global and cross-functional teams.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to enhance design processes and project outcomes, particularly in the context of the energy transition.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to meeting client needs and delivering successful projects that contribute to their objectives.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A proactive approach to working with other engineering disciplines (civil, electrical controls, system studies) to ensure a holistic and optimized substation design.

• Open Communication: Encouraging clear, honest, and timely communication among team members, stakeholders, and clients to address issues promptly.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: A culture where experienced engineers actively mentor junior colleagues, and knowledge is shared freely to build collective expertise.

• Problem-Solving Orientation: A collective drive to identify and resolve technical challenges efficiently and effectively, often through collaborative brainstorming and analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: GE Vernova's stated mission around the "Green Energy transition" and "electrifying the world" suggests a culture that values purpose-driven work and sustainability. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these broader organizational values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Global Team Coordination: Effectively managing and motivating remote engineering teams across different time zones and cultural backgrounds requires strong communication and leadership skills.

• Complex Regulatory Landscape: Navigating and ensuring compliance with the evolving and specific regulatory requirements within the UK energy sector (e.g., CDM 2015, transmission/distribution standards).

• Technology Integration: Keeping pace with and integrating new technologies (e.g., advanced GIS, digital substations, renewable energy integration solutions) into primary substation designs.

• Balancing Design & Delivery: Ensuring that design processes are efficient and timely without compromising quality or safety, especially under project deadlines.

• Stakeholder Management: Effectively managing expectations and resolving technical queries with diverse stakeholders, including clients, regulatory bodies, and suppliers.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training programs on the latest HV/EHV technologies, design software, and industry best practices.

• Project Management Skills: Development opportunities in project management methodologies and tools relevant to large-scale infrastructure projects.

• Leadership Development: Formal leadership training and mentorship programs to enhance management and team-building capabilities.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Opportunities to attend industry events, learn about emerging trends, and network with peers and experts in the power sector.

• Exposure to Renewable Energy Projects: Gaining in-depth experience in designing substations critical for integrating renewable energy sources, a key growth area.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in complex, global engineering projects. Candidates who can articulate how they have successfully navigated similar challenges in the past will be well-positioned. The growth opportunities highlight GE Vernova's commitment to employee development within a rapidly evolving industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex HV/EHV substation primary design project you led. What were the key technical challenges, and how did you ensure design quality and compliance with UK standards (e.g., CDM 2015)?" (Focus on problem-solving, technical depth, and regulatory awareness).

• "How would you coordinate and manage a remote global engineering team to deliver a critical substation design package on time and to specification?" (Assess leadership, communication, and remote team management skills).

• "Walk me through your process for reviewing and approving vendor specifications and drawings for primary substation equipment. What are the critical checkpoints?" (Evaluate attention to detail, technical judgment, and vendor management approach).

• "Imagine a scenario where a key stakeholder raises a significant technical concern late in the design phase. How would you handle this situation to minimize project impact?" (Test stakeholder management and conflict resolution abilities). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about GE Vernova's mission in the energy transition, and how do you see your role contributing to it?" (Gauge alignment with company values and strategic goals).

• "Describe your experience working in cross-functional engineering teams. How do you ensure effective collaboration between electrical, civil, and other disciplines?" (Assess teamwork and communication style).

• "How do you stay current with the latest advancements in HV/EHV substation technology and UK grid standards?" (Understand your commitment to continuous learning). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of GE Vernova and the role, then present 2-3 key projects. For each project, outline:

  • Project context and objectives
  • Your specific role and responsibilities
  • Key design challenges and solutions (focusing on primary plant)
  • How you applied UK standards and safety principles (CDM 2015)
  • Use of CAD/BIM/3D tools
  • Collaboration with other teams/vendors
  • Quantifiable outcomes/impact

• Visuals: Use clear, high-quality images of drawings, models, and diagrams. Avoid cluttered slides.

• Conciseness: Be precise and avoid jargon where possible. Focus on your direct contributions and the impact of your work.

• Engagement: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your projects and design decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare concrete examples that specifically address HV/EHV design, UK regulations, and team coordination. The interview will likely assess not only technical capability but also leadership potential and cultural fit within GE Vernova's mission-driven environment.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Primary Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the GE Vernova careers portal via the provided URL.

• Tailor your CV/Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your experience in HV/EHV substation primary design, your proficiency with CAD/BIM/3D tools, and any direct experience with UK transmission/distribution standards and CDM 2015. Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant projects, focusing on primary design, UK compliance, and technical leadership. Be ready to present this effectively.

• Research GE Vernova: Familiarize yourself with GE Vernova's mission, projects, and values, particularly their role in the energy transition and their work in Grid System Integration. Understand their commitment to safety and quality.

• Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on behavioral examples that demonstrate your technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and problem-solving skills. Prepare specific examples from your portfolio.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.