Job Title: Lead Project Engineer - HVDC Control & Protection Location: Staffordshire, UK Contract Type: Contract Hybrid Model: 3 days onsite at Stafford, 2 days remote Max Rate: £45-50 per hour IR35: Inside IR35 Job Overview: My client is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Lead Project Engineer with expertise in HVDC Control & Protection systems to join our team in Staffordshire, UK. This is a hybrid contract role offering a chance to work with a leading global provider of engineering solutions in the field of power systems. As a Lead Project Engineer, you will be at the forefront of delivering complex HVDC solutions, leading a multi-disciplinary team to meet the project objectives. This role presents an excellent opportunity to further develop your project management skills while making significant contributions to large-scale engineering projects. Key Responsibilities: Lead and mentor a team of engineers specializing in control and protection systems, automation, HV & LV power systems, and verification & validation for HVDC projects. Design, develop, configure, and verify HVDC Control & Protection Systems ensuring solutions meet project requirements, quality standards, and regulatory guidelines. Provide technical leadership to internal teams, customers, suppliers, and third parties, guiding them through the entire project lifecycle, including tendering, commissioning, and service phases. Oversee the engineering execution of complex multi-disciplinary projects, ensuring that engineering solutions are delivered on time, within budget, and to high-quality standards. Manage project documentation, risk management processes, and quality control systems while supporting cost-reduction initiatives and improvement programs. Interface with key stakeholders, ensuring effective communication, and translating customer needs into technical solutions. Support the Project Manager and act as a deputy when required, ensuring adherence to project schedules, budgets, and contracts. Lead day-to-day interactions and problem-solving efforts within a cross-functional team to ensure efficient collaboration and continuous competency development. Travel globally as needed to support project execution and customer engagements. Required Skills and Qualifications: Bachelor's Degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Project Management, or equivalent field with relevant industry experience. 9 years of experience in control and protection systems, with a proven track record of managing and executing HVDC or similar power system projects. Strong understanding of HVDC, control, protection, and power grid systems, including experience with automation, protection, and integration. Demonstrated experience in project leadership and managing large, multi-disciplinary engineering teams. In-depth knowledge of HV & LV systems, controls and protection strategies, and experience with grid-connected systems. Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and decision-making skills with a strong focus on delivering technical solutions. Exceptional communication skills (both written and verbal) with the ability to interact effectively with internal and external stakeholders. Experience in engineering execution, including design reviews, quality control, and adherence to safety standards. Customer-centric mindset with the ability to translate complex technical issues into clear, actionable solutions. Flexible with working hours and open to global travel as needed