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- Tasks: Lead the design and implementation of cutting-edge FACTS technology for a sustainable energy future.
- Company: Join SSE, a pioneering energy company committed to achieving net zero and transforming the grid.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, healthcare discounts, wellbeing support, and generous family entitlements.
- Why this job: Be part of a team shaping the future of energy with innovative projects and industry influence.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and Chartered Engineer status or working towards it required.
- Other info: Work from beautiful Scottish locations and contribute to a greener planet.
The predicted salary is between 48100 - 76650 £ per year.
Base Location: For this role, we require successful applicants to be based from one of our Scottish locations – Perth, Inverness or Aberdeen.
Salary: £58,100 - £95,810 + performance-related bonus + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available.
The role: At SSEN Transmission, we are building a network for Net Zero that’s smarter, more flexible, and equipped to support the future of energy, one that delivers clean, secure, and affordable electricity for generations to come. Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) play a crucial role in this transformation by enabling greater control, stability, and efficiency across our high voltage infrastructure.
Network Engineering are part of the Asset Management and Operations Directorate. Their purpose is to ensure that engineering activities for all Transmission projects and business areas are safe, sound and supported. They carry out the Design and Technical Engineering Governance functions for the Transmission Business, ensuring that the design of the network and the equipment used operates safely, reliably and in compliance with the relevant legislation.
As part of our journey, we’re looking for a Principal Engineer - FACTS to join our specialist Network Engineering team. You’ll play a vital role in defining technical policy, influencing industry standards, and supporting the delivery of innovative, future-ready projects across our high-voltage transmission network related to HVDC and FACTS.
You will:
- Write, maintain and own technical specifications and guidance notes required for one or more FACTS devices (STATCOM, SYNCOM, SVC, SSSC, UPFC) or HVDC technology used on the Transmission network.
- Review test plans and witness tests to ensure that all FACTS technology and equipment selected is adequately tested, proven and validated.
- Provide Subject Matter Expert input to design reviews carried out by the Design Authority.
- Provide technical consultancy services across the SSEN Transmission business, encouraging the development of staff and have a willingness to share your specialist expert knowledge.
- Represent SSEN Transmission at industry body events such as ENA, IEC or CIGRE working groups and attend conferences to support engineering development and feedback best practice to our business.
You have:
- A degree in Electrical Engineering or another relevant engineering discipline and Chartered Engineer status with a relevant institution or working towards chartered status.
- Demonstrable experience on an expert level in the design, specification, construction, control & operation and maintenance of one or more FACTS devices at transmission voltages.
- The ability and experience to technically assess issues and/or problems and critically assess a range of technical solutions.
- A detailed knowledge and understanding of a range of National Grid, British and European Standards, UK grid code and SQSS alongside the capability and experience in writing technical specifications, guidance notes and work instructions for FACTS.
About SSE: SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We’re transforming the grid to provide greener electricity for millions of people and investing over £20 billion in homegrown energy, with £20 billion more in the pipeline. SSEN Transmission own and operate the electricity transmission network across the north of Scotland. We transport energy from where it is generated to where it is needed, ensuring a safe and reliable electricity supply for the communities we serve.
Flexible Benefits To Fit Your Life: Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships. Wellbeing benefits like a free online GP and 24/7 counselling service. Interest-free loans on tech and transport season tickets, or a new bike with our Cycle to Work scheme. As well as generous family entitlements such as maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.
Work with an equal opportunity employer: SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. We’re dedicated to fostering an open and inclusive workplace where people from all backgrounds can thrive. We create equal opportunities for everyone to succeed and especially welcome applications from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.
Ready to apply? Start your online application using the Apply Now box on this page. We only accept applications made online. We’ll be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we’ll be taking your application further. If you’re offered a role with SSE, you’ll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.
Principal Engineer - FACTS employer: Ssen Transmission
Contact Detail:
Ssen Transmission Recruiting Team
andrew.torrance@sse.com
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer - FACTS
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in FACTS technology and HVDC systems. Being well-versed in current trends and innovations will not only boost your confidence during interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the energy sector, especially those involved with SSEN Transmission or similar companies. Attend industry events, webinars, or local meetups to make connections that could provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with technical specifications and guidance notes for FACTS devices. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to projects in the past, as this will showcase your expertise and problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Research SSEN Transmission's recent projects and initiatives related to net zero and renewable energy. Understanding their goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - FACTS
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with FACTS devices and HVDC technology. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in design, specification, and operation of these systems.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for renewable energy and how your background aligns with SSEN Transmission's mission. Mention your technical skills and any relevant projects you've worked on that relate to the role.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree in Electrical Engineering and your Chartered Engineer status or progress towards it. This is crucial for demonstrating your qualifications for the Principal Engineer position.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since the role involves stakeholder engagement and representing SSEN at industry events, emphasise your communication skills. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated complex technical information in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ssen Transmission
✨Understand FACTS Technology
Make sure you have a solid grasp of Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) and their applications. Be prepared to discuss specific devices like STATCOM, SVC, and HVDC technology, as well as your experience with them.
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
Highlight your experience in designing, specifying, and maintaining FACTS devices. Be ready to provide examples of how you've tackled technical challenges and contributed to successful projects in the past.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Brush up on relevant National Grid, British, and European Standards, as well as the UK grid code. Demonstrating your knowledge of these regulations will show that you understand the compliance aspects of the role.
✨Prepare for Stakeholder Engagement
Since the role involves engaging with various stakeholders, think of examples where you've effectively communicated technical information to non-technical audiences. This will showcase your ability to justify changes and influence decisions.
