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- Tasks: Lead the design and technical governance for high-voltage substations, ensuring safety and compliance.
- Company: Join SSE, a pioneering energy company committed to a net zero future and greener electricity.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, discounts on healthcare, and generous family entitlements.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey towards sustainable energy while influencing industry standards.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and Chartered Engineer status or working towards it required.
- Other info: SSE values diversity and offers support for all applicants to ensure an inclusive experience.
The predicted salary is between 58100 - 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’s 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’re looking for a Principal Engineer - Substations 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 substations.
You will:
- Write, maintain and own technical specifications and guidance notes required for substation designs used on the Transmission network and interfaces to LV and MV systems and other auxiliary systems as well as substation earthing systems and review existing specifications and update them based on lessons learnt from projects and to include development of technology.
- As part of the Technical Authority, review test plans to ensure that all technology and equipment selected is adequately tested, proven and validated and review proposed suppliers to confirm their suitability to be approved for use on the transmission network.
- Provide Subject Matter Expert input to design reviews carried out by the Design Authority and provide specialist input where required and verify project proposals are fit for purpose and identify any scope changes required.
- 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 in the design, specification and application of transmission voltage substations.
- The ability and experience to technically assess issues and/or problems and critically assess a range of technical solutions and an in depth understanding of the technical requirements for design, planning, operation and development of the transmission network.
- A detailed knowledge and understanding of a range of National Grid, British and European Standards alongside the capability and experience in writing technical specifications, guidance notes and work instructions for plant, equipment or substation design.
- Experience in designing, manufacturing, testing, installation or maintenance of transmission voltage plant and equipment would also be advantageous.
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. But that’s not all – we’re 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’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 - Substations 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
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest industry standards and regulations related to substations. This knowledge will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to staying updated in a rapidly evolving field.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the energy sector, especially those involved in transmission and substations. Attend relevant conferences or workshops to make connections that could lead to valuable insights or referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to substation design and engineering. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you contributed to successful outcomes.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your leadership skills and willingness to mentor others in your field. Highlight any experience you have in guiding teams or sharing knowledge, as this aligns well with the responsibilities of a Principal Engineer.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - Substations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in electrical engineering, particularly in the design and application of transmission voltage substations. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise and achievements in this area.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your passion for contributing to a net zero future. Mention how your skills align with SSEN Transmission's goals and the specific role of Principal Engineer - Substations.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly state your degree in Electrical Engineering and any chartered status or progress towards it. Emphasise your understanding of National Grid, British and European Standards, as well as your experience in writing technical specifications.
Showcase Industry Engagement: If you have represented previous employers at industry events or contributed to working groups, mention these experiences. This demonstrates your commitment to professional development and your ability to influence industry standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Women's Engineering Society
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
As a Principal Engineer - Substations, you'll need to demonstrate your expertise in electrical engineering and substation design. Brush up on relevant standards and be prepared to discuss your experience with transmission voltage substations in detail.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to provide examples of how you've assessed technical issues and developed solutions in past projects. This role requires critical thinking, so think of specific challenges you've faced and how you overcame them.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Familiarise yourself with SSEN Transmission's goals, especially their commitment to net zero and sustainable energy. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission.
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect questions about teamwork, leadership, and mentoring, as this role involves developing staff and sharing knowledge. Think of instances where you've successfully collaborated or led a team, and be ready to share those stories.
