Principal Consultant - Power Systems Consulting

RINA is seeking an experienced Principal Consultant to lead complex power system consultancy engagements. The role combines hands-on technical leadership, project delivery, technical assurance, client development and the creation of new consulting opportunities across electricity networks, renewable generation, energy storage, data centres and industrial power systems. You will advise clients on grid connection and compliance, network performance, system stability, power quality, electromagnetic transients and the integration of inverter-based resources. This is an opportunity to shape RINA's established Power Systems capability in the UK and contribute to the energy transition through high-value, evidence-led consultancy. 

The role can be based from either of RINA's UK offices (Manchester preferred, Leatherhead, Chippenham, Southampton) although occasional travel to client sites may be required. RINA offers hybrid working arrangements.

The role 

You will act as a technical authority and consulting lead for UK and international power system studies. You will define study strategies, lead technical teams, assure models and reports, engage directly with clients and network operators, and convert client needs into well-scoped and commercially sound assignments. 

Although the role may interface with RINA's substation design, renewables and wider electrical engineering teams, its primary focus is the delivery and growth of power system studies. 

Key responsibilities 

• Lead complex power system consultancy projects from proposal and scope definition through modelling, technical assurance, reporting and client close-out. 

• Act as technical lead for load flow and reactive compensation, short-circuit and fault level, voltage and frequency stability, RMS dynamics, electromagnetic transients, power quality, filter design, transient overvoltage and insulation coordination, converter control interactions, protection coordination and arc-flash studies. 

• Lead grid connection and grid-code compliance assignments for onshore and offshore renewables, battery energy storage, conventional generation, data centres, industrial users and network operators. 

• Provide hands-on technical leadership using DIgSILENT PowerFactory, PSCAD, PSS®E, ETAP or equivalent tools, and promote efficient delivery through automation and scripting where appropriate. 

• Review and assure study models, calculations, methodologies, technical reports and proposals, ensuring conclusions are technically robust, traceable and clearly communicated. 

• Identify opportunities, shape client solutions, lead bids and proposals, prepare scopes and estimates, and support negotiation and contract handover. 

• Mentor and develop consultants, establish consistent technical practices and contribute to recruitment and capability planning. 

Role requirements 

• Degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering or a closely related discipline. A relevant postgraduate qualification is advantageous. 

• Typically 10 or more years of relevant power systems experience, including substantial experience in consultancy, electricity networks, system operation, generation or grid integration.  

• Demonstrable experience leading technically complex modelling and analysis assignments and independently resolving network-performance, compliance, modelling and control-system issues. 

• Advanced practical capability in at least two recognised power system analysis platforms. Expertise in DIgSILENT PowerFactory and/or PSCAD is particularly relevant; PSS®E, ETAP, IPSA and Python are advantageous. 

• Knowledge of the UK electricity industry, including the Grid Code, Distribution Code, ENA Engineering Recommendations and relevant IEC and IEEE standards. Experience engaging with DNOs, Transmission Owners and NESO is advantageous. 

Eligibility 

• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK, without employer sponsorship.

About RINA Power Systems 

RINA's established global power business unit support growing market across electricity networks, conventional and renewable generation, energy storage, industrial power systems and the transition to low-carbon energy. The UK power systems and electrical engineering department provides consultancy and project-delivery services covering power system studies, grid connection and integration, renewable generation and storage, electricity distribution design, earthing and lightning protection, carbon capture and related energy-transition solutions. 

About RINA 

RINA is a 7,000-strong and growing global engineering services firm, providing innovative consulting services to Energy, Power, Renewables, Defence, Manufacturing, Transport and Infrastructure. Operating across 70 countries, RINA combines multidisciplinary depth with local insight to deliver high-quality services and measurable value for clients. #LI-JB3

Benefits 

• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays 

• Option to buy additional holiday 

• Bonus 

• Pension 

• Health insurance 

• 10 additional paid days of leave for military reservists 

• Life assurance 

• Professional membership fees 

• Cycle-to-work scheme 

• Electric-vehicle scheme 

• Employee retail discounts 

• Recruitment referral bonus 

• Four half-days of paid leave for STEM Ambassador activities 

• Season-ticket loan