Role: Grid Manager - Renewable Energy Projects

Location: UK (Hybrid, with regional travel)

Employment Type: Full Time

Sector: Renewable Energy / Distributed Energy / Solar PV

About the Opportunity

MDE UK is partnering with a leading renewable energy developer to recruit a Grid Specialist to support the UK project pipeline of large-scale solar PV and distributed energy projects. This is a high-profile role, offering the opportunity to work across project development, grid connection design, and construction while liaising with key stakeholders across the energy network.

The successful candidate will act as the technical expert on grid connections, driving projects from early development through to commissioning while ensuring compliance with UK grid regulations and best practices.

Key Responsibilities

Development Phase

• Manage the end-to-end grid application process for large-scale solar PV and distributed energy projects in the UK
• Build and maintain relationships with grid stakeholders, including DNOs, IDNOs, and independent network operators
• Collaborate with the Project Development Team to identify areas of current or future grid capacity
• Provide technical guidance to project teams throughout the development lifecycle
• Support technical planning for grid infrastructure, including substations, cabling, and network upgrades

EPC & Construction Phase

• Negotiate and finalise grid connection agreements and relevant permits for the project pipeline
• Liaise with stakeholders to optimise grid connections for efficiency and cost-effectiveness
• Support equipment commissioning and coordinate with network operators during installation
• Advise on private wire connections, battery storage integration, and emerging distributed energy technologies
• Serve as the subject matter expert for medium and high voltage grid connections, ensuring compliance with UK regulations and standards

General Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain a knowledge base of best practice, contributing to continuous improvement and competitive advantage
• Build industry relationships to identify new project opportunities
• Report to senior management on project status, timelines, risks, budgets, and feasibility
• Keep abreast of policy, regulatory, and technical developments affecting grid connections

Requirements

• BSc or MSc in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related discipline
• Proven experience in UK grid connections, preferably within large-scale renewable energy projects
• Strong knowledge of medium and high voltage distribution networks and connection processes
• Familiarity with UK transmission and distribution regulations, grid application processes, and planning consents
• Experience negotiating grid agreements and permits
• Strong technical, commercial, and stakeholder management skills
• IT literate, including Microsoft Office, Teams, SharePoint, and mapping tools (e.g., GIS, Google Earth)
• Ability to work independently while collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to liaise with a range of stakeholders
• Full UK driving license and willingness to travel regionally to project sites

Benefits

• Competitive salary and performance-related bonus
• Hybrid working flexibility
• Pension plan and healthcare benefits
• Exposure to fast-growing renewable energy market
• Opportunities for career growth within a dynamic, international organisation