At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HVDC cable projects, ensuring technical excellence and compliance with industry standards.
- Company: Join SSE, a pioneering energy company committed to a net zero future.
- 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 in Scotland.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and experience with HVDC cables required.
- Other info: SSE values diversity and encourages applications from all backgrounds.
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 – Glasgow, 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 SSEN Transmission has an opportunity for an HVDC Cables Principal Engineer to join our Network Engineering team to support the technical governance of our growing number of HVDC projects. The Network Engineering team, part of the Asset Management and Operations Directorate, oversees design and technical engineering governance for the Transmission business. They ensure proper engineering guidance and specifications for all Transmission projects, ensuring safe, reliable operations in compliance with relevant legislation.
You will:
- Write, maintain, and manage technical specifications and guidance for all HVDC cables on the Transmission network, including updates based on project lessons and technological advancements.
- As part of the Technical Authority, review test plans to ensure equipment is properly tested and validated, and assess suppliers and factories for approval for use on the transmission network.
- Provide Subject Matter Expert input to design reviews, offer specialist advice, verify project proposals, and identify necessary scope changes.
- Provide technical guidance and advice to the Transmission business for new HVDC cables, cable replacements and cable repair.
- Represent SSEN Transmission at industry body events such as Energy Networks Association (ENA), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) or International Council on Large Electric Systems (CIGRE) working groups and conferences.
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, testing and installation of HVDC cables.
- Expertise in assessing HVDC cable issues, with a deep understanding of design, installation, operation, maintenance, and testing requirements.
- In-depth knowledge of National Grid, British, and European cable standards, with experience writing technical specifications, guidance, and work instructions for HVDC cables and installation (land/subsea).
- Experience in manufacturing of HVDC cables would also be advantageous.
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’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 - Cables 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 - Cables
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest HVDC technologies and standards. Being well-versed in current trends and advancements will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the industry by attending relevant conferences and events, such as those hosted by the Energy Networks Association or CIGRE. This can help you gain insights into the role and potentially connect with decision-makers at SSEN Transmission.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on that relate to HVDC cables. Highlighting your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Research SSEN Transmission's recent projects and initiatives. Understanding their goals and challenges will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your expertise aligns with their needs.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - Cables
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in HVDC cables and relevant engineering disciplines. Emphasise your technical skills, especially in design, specification, testing, and installation of HVDC cables.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the requirements listed in the job description. Mention your Chartered Engineer status and any relevant projects you've worked on that demonstrate your expertise in HVDC cables.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your application, provide examples of your previous work related to HVDC cables, including any technical specifications or guidance documents you have written. Highlight your understanding of industry standards and regulations.
Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to discuss your technical knowledge and experience during the interview process. Prepare to explain your approach to assessing HVDC cable issues and how you ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
How to prepare for a job interview at Women's Engineering Society
✨Showcase Your Technical Expertise
As a Principal Engineer, you'll need to demonstrate your deep understanding of HVDC cables. Be prepared to discuss your previous projects, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Highlight your experience with design, specification, and testing to show you're the right fit for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Industry Standards
Make sure you know the relevant National Grid, British, and European cable standards inside out. During the interview, reference these standards when discussing your experience and how they apply to the role. This will show that you are not only knowledgeable but also detail-oriented.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and technical judgement. Prepare examples of past experiences where you had to make critical decisions regarding HVDC cables or manage project scope changes. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Demonstrate Your Communication Skills
As you'll be representing SSEN Transmission at industry events, it's crucial to showcase your ability to communicate complex technical information clearly. Practice explaining your work in layman's terms, as well as how you would engage with stakeholders and team members effectively.