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- Tasks: Lead the design and governance of high-voltage substations for a sustainable energy future.
- Company: Join SSE, a pioneering energy company committed to net zero and greener electricity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, healthcare discounts, wellbeing support, and generous family entitlements.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative team shaping the future of energy with innovative projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering; extensive experience in high-voltage substation design required.
- Other info: SSE values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 58000 - 95810 £ 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 is smarter, more flexible, and equipped to support the future of energy, one that delivers clean, secure, and affordable electricity for generations to come. Real Time Systems play a crucial role in this transformation by providing the control and operational data needed to manage our network. 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 are looking for a Principal Engineer – Substation Electrical Plant to join our specialist Network Engineering team. You will 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 substation electrical plant.
You will:
- Write, maintain and own technical specifications and guidance notes for transmission voltage substations and all associated electrical primary plant (e.g. GIS/AIS switchgear, instrument transformers, surge arresters, MSCDNs, FACTS/HVDC interfaces, earthing systems, and auxiliary systems), ensuring they reflect current standards, lessons learned, and emerging technologies.
- As part of the Technical Authority, review and approve test plans, witness testing activities, and assess proposed suppliers and equipment to ensure fitness for use on the transmission network.
- Provide subject matter expert input to design reviews led by the Design Authority, ensuring all proposals are technically robust, compliant, and fit for purpose, while identifying and advising on any necessary changes to scope or design.
- 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 discipline, with Chartered Engineer status or working towards chartership with a recognised engineering institution.
- Extensive experience in the design, specification, and application of transmission voltage substations and associated electrical plant (e.g. GIS, AIS, FACTS, HVDC), ideally at 132kV and above.
- Strong technical judgement, with the ability to evaluate complex engineering issues and solutions, and a thorough understanding of the design, planning, operation, and development requirements of the transmission network.
- A deep knowledge of relevant national and international standards (e.g. National Grid, British, IEC), and proven experience in authoring technical specifications, design guidance, and work instructions.
- Practical experience in the manufacture, testing, installation, commissioning, or maintenance of high-voltage equipment, with a strong understanding of lifecycle considerations and asset performance.
About SSE: SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We are 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. But that is not all – we are upgrading the grid to deliver cleaner, homegrown energy for the future and building a network for net zero to create secure power for generations to come.
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 are 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 will be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we will be taking your application further. If you are offered a role with SSE, you will need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.
Principal Engineer - Substations/Electrical Plant employer: Women's Engineering Society
Contact Detail:
Women's Engineering Society Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer - Substations/Electrical Plant
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest industry standards and technologies related to substations and electrical plants. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying current in your field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the energy sector, especially those involved with SSEN Transmission or similar companies. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections that could provide insights or referrals for your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to high-voltage transmission systems. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you contributed to successful outcomes, as this will showcase your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Research SSEN Transmission's recent projects and initiatives, particularly those focused on net zero and sustainability. Being able to speak knowledgeably about their goals and how you can contribute will set you apart from other candidates.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - Substations/Electrical Plant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in electrical engineering, particularly with transmission voltage substations and associated electrical plant. Use specific examples that demonstrate your technical judgement and compliance with relevant standards.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for the energy sector and how your background aligns with SSEN Transmission's goals. Mention your experience with high-voltage equipment and your understanding of lifecycle considerations, as these are crucial for the role.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree in Electrical Engineering and your Chartered Engineer status or progress towards it. This is essential for demonstrating your qualifications for the Principal Engineer position.
Showcase Industry Engagement: Mention any involvement in industry body events or working groups, such as ENA or IEC. This shows your commitment to professional development and your ability to represent SSEN Transmission effectively.
How to prepare for a job interview at Women's Engineering Society
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of transmission voltage substations and associated electrical plant. Be prepared to discuss specific technologies like GIS, AIS, and HVDC, as well as relevant national and international standards.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your extensive experience in the design, specification, and application of high-voltage equipment. Be ready to provide examples of past projects where you've demonstrated strong technical judgement and problem-solving skills.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your ability to evaluate complex engineering issues. Think about how you would approach design reviews or supplier assessments, and be ready to explain your thought process.
✨Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Engineer, you'll need to show that you can lead and mentor others. Prepare to discuss how you've encouraged the development of staff in previous roles and how you plan to share your expertise within the team.
