Electrical Design Lead

Lead the Future of Highways Technology: Electrical Design Lead

About the Role
We are seeking a technically accomplished and visionary Electrical Design Lead to oversee the design and delivery of complex electrical infrastructure across Derbyshire’s highways network. This senior role is pivotal in shaping the future of street lighting, traffic signals, and intelligent transport systems (ITS), ensuring projects meet the highest standards of safety, quality, and efficiency.

You will lead a team of engineers and technicians, providing expert guidance and technical leadership across a diverse portfolio of capital projects. Working collaboratively with internal teams, external partners, and Distribution Network Operators (DNOs), you’ll champion innovation, sustainability, and a “right first time” ethos.

This role also includes deputising for the Highway Design Manager and contributing to strategic forums, project coordination groups, and partnership collaborations.

Key Responsibilities
• Lead the design and delivery of electrical schemes including street lighting, traffic signals, and ITS.
• Ensure compliance with BS 7671, ILP Codes of Practice, CDM 2015, and Electricity at Work Regulations.
• Manage and mentor a team of design professionals.
• Oversee project budgets and ensure value for money.
• Provide technical leadership in multi-disciplinary project teams.
• Promote sustainable design and carbon reduction in electrical infrastructure.
• Liaise with DNOs and external partners to ensure seamless project delivery.
• Deputise for the Highway Design Manager in strategic engagements.

About You
• Substantial experience in electrical design and contract management within highways or infrastructure.
• Proven leadership and team management skills.
• Strong understanding of technical standards, specifications, and public sector procurement.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities.
• Commitment to safety, sustainability, and continuous improvement.

Essential Qualifications and Experience
• HNC/HND or equivalent in Civil Engineering or related discipline.
• Extensive experience in highways authority or electrical infrastructure design.
• Demonstrable experience managing complex and politically sensitive projects.

Desirable
• Membership of professional institutions (e.g., IET, ICE, CIHT).
• Experience with NEC contracts and Early Contractor Involvement (ECI).
• Relevant industry qualifications (e.g., HERS/ECS card holder).
• Advanced proficiency in design and modelling software.
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Support & Benefits:
• Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part-time employees), subject to service needs.
• Generous Annual Leave Scheme: Ensures a healthy work-life balance.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Provides financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in-house counselling.
• Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
• Electric/Plug-in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encourages environmentally friendly commuting options.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.

Apply Now
If you’re ready to lead the design of Derbyshire’s most advanced electrical infrastructure and shape the future of highways technology, we’d love to hear from you!

📅 Closing Date: Sunday 1st February 2026
📝 Interview Date: 9th to 13th February

Candidates who have previously applied and were unsuccessful need not reapply.

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Apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with us! By joining Derbyshire County Council you will have access to a range of amazing rewards and employee benefits, including our generous annual leave scheme, excellent local government pension and fantastic employee discounts. To discover more detail about the rewards and benefits available to you, click here

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Important: Derbyshire County Council holds a sponsorship licence, but this role does not offer visa sponsorship. Please apply only if you already have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship, as applications that do not meet this requirement will be rejected.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.