Application Guide

How to Apply for Legal Counsel HVDC & GPQS UK&IE

at HITACHI ENERGY

🏢 About HITACHI ENERGY

Hitachi Energy is a global leader in advancing sustainable energy systems, driving the transition to a carbon-neutral future through innovative technologies like HVDC (High-Voltage Direct Current) and grid power quality solutions. Working here means being at the forefront of the energy transition, with a strong focus on integrity, collaboration, and cutting-edge engineering.

About This Role

This role provides expert legal counsel on complex HVDC and GPQS projects in the UK and Ireland, covering contract negotiation, risk management, and dispute resolution. You'll directly support the delivery of critical energy infrastructure, ensuring compliance and mitigating legal risks in high-stakes, multi-million-pound projects.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve reviewing tender documents for a new HVDC project, advising on risk allocation, and negotiating contract terms with a client's legal team. You'll also collaborate with project managers to resolve a contractual dispute, and later participate in a call with external counsel to discuss litigation strategy.

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Interview Prep

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🎯 Who HITACHI ENERGY Is Looking For

  • A fully qualified solicitor in England & Wales with 5+ years PQE in grid systems, utilities, or major engineering/construction projects.
  • Deep expertise in contract law, particularly with FIDIC, NEC3, NEC4, and MF/1 forms, and a proven ability to draft and negotiate complex agreements.
  • A business-minded, solution-oriented professional who can balance legal risk with commercial objectives, and communicate effectively with engineers and project managers.
  • Experience managing disputes and litigations, and liaising with external law firms in an international corporate environment.

📝 Tips for Applying to HITACHI ENERGY

1

Highlight specific experience with HVDC, grid systems, or large-scale energy projects in your CV and cover letter, quantifying project values where possible.

2

Demonstrate your familiarity with FIDIC, NEC3, NEC4, and MF/1 by mentioning specific clauses or projects where you used these forms.

3

Tailor your application to emphasize your ability to work remotely and independently, given the role's remote nature.

4

Showcase your experience in cross-functional collaboration with engineers, project managers, and commercial teams.

5

Mention any experience with corporate governance, ethics codes, or integrity investigations, as these are key responsibilities.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

["Your passion for sustainable energy and alignment with Hitachi Energy's mission to achieve a carbon-neutral future.", 'Specific examples of complex contract negotiations and risk management in the energy or construction sector.', "Your proficiency with FIDIC, NEC3, NEC4, and MF/1, and how you've used them to protect client interests.", 'Your ability to manage disputes and litigations effectively, including any experience with external counsel.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Read about Hitachi Energy's HVDC technology and recent projects in the UK and Ireland, such as the Caithness-Moray or North Sea Link.
  • → Understand the company's commitment to sustainability and its 'Lumada' portfolio for grid solutions.
  • → Familiarize yourself with the UK's energy regulatory landscape, including Ofgem and the Contracts for Difference (CfD) scheme.
  • → Review Hitachi Energy's Code of Ethics and Integrity Guidelines, as they are mentioned in the job description.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through a time you negotiated a complex contract for a major energy project. What were the key risks, and how did you address them?
2 How do you approach risk identification and mitigation in a tender or project stage?
3 Describe your experience with FIDIC, NEC3, NEC4, or MF/1. Which do you prefer and why?
4 How would you handle a dispute with a subcontractor on a live HVDC project?
5 What is your understanding of Hitachi Energy's role in the UK's energy transition, and how does this position contribute?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't reference HVDC, GPQS, or the specific contract forms (FIDIC, NEC, MF/1).
  • Failing to demonstrate remote work capability or experience managing projects independently.
  • Overlooking the importance of corporate governance and ethics – ensure you mention relevant experience or understanding.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to HITACHI ENERGY!

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