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- Tasks: Lead the design and integration of cutting-edge FACTS and HVDC technologies in the UK.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transition and infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible work options, and comprehensive wellbeing benefits.
- Why this job: Shape the future of energy while working on innovative projects that matter.
- Qualifications: Electrical Engineering degree with experience in Control & Protection for FACTS and HVDC systems.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive workplace that values diverse backgrounds and perspectives.
The predicted salary is between 58100 - 87100 £ per year.
Base Location: Flexible Scotland | We’re proud to offer a Flexible First approach to work, and this role is no exception. Your base ‘home’ location will need to be one of our SSEN offices or depots around Scotland: Perth, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Inverness.
Salary: £58,100 – £87,100 + car/car allowance + 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: As our new Principal Engineer – FACTS and HVDC C&P, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping how these cutting‑edge technologies are designed, specified, tested and integrated across the UK transmission system. This is an opportunity to influence national engineering policy, set standards that define the future of the grid, and directly support some of the most complex and innovative energy projects in the country. This role includes direct stakeholder involvement, which requires provision of guidance, mentoring others and being a point of escalation for Project Engineers.
- Own and update SSEN Transmissions technical specifications for FACTS (STATCOM, SYNCOM, SVC, SSSC, UPFC) and HVDC systems, focusing on Control & Protection (C&P) requirements for the transmission network.
- Review key supplier design documents, test plans and witness complex factory tests to ensure C&P equipment is fully validated, proven, and suitable for use.
- Assess proposed suppliers to confirm they meet approval standards for deployment on the network.
- Assess and approve new suppliers and emerging technologies, ensuring they can deliver solutions that are safe, reliable, and compliant.
- Provide specialist technical input at every design stage, from early concept to detailed design review.
- Offer expert guidance on refurbishments, upgrades, and fault investigations related to HVDC/FACTS C&P systems.
- Challenge assumptions and refine project scopes, supporting project teams as they work through the complexities of HVDC and FACTS engineering.
- Act as a subject matter expert across the organization, mentoring engineers and strengthening technical capability.
- Represent SSEN Transmission in key industry groups (ENA, IEC, CIGRE) and bring back best‑practice insights to shape the established strategy and standards.
You have:
- Electrical Engineering degree (or related discipline). A Masters or PhD is beneficial but not essential.
- Chartered Engineer (or actively working toward chartership).
- Proven experience in Control & Protection (C&P) engineering for FACTS and HVDC systems – including design, specification, settings, and development of transmission‑level protection and control schemes.
- Strong understanding of key industry standards (e.g., IEC 61850, BS IEC 61588, PROFINET, EtherCAT) and the interfaces between AC networks and HVDC/FACTS systems.
- Good knowledge of Hardware‑in‑the‑Loop (HIL) and Software‑in‑the‑Loop (SIL) testing for FACTS/HVDC C&P systems, along with experience in factory and site acceptance testing.
- Awareness of emerging technologies, such as grid‑forming FACTS.
- Strong analytical and technical writing skills, with the ability to assess issues, validate technical solutions, and produce clear specifications.
- Solid understanding of National Grid, British and European Standards, the UK Grid Code, SQSS, and relevant power quality standards.
About SSEN: SSEN’s purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. Our Transforming for Growth investment plan sees us investing £33bn in critical electricity infrastructure across the five years to 2030. SSEN Transmission owns and operates 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. We’re upgrading the grid to deliver cleaner, home‑grown 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. 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. Please contact Andy on 01738 275370 to discuss how we can support you. 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/HVDC in Perth employer: Equal Approach Ltd
Contact Detail:
Equal Approach Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer – FACTS/HVDC in Perth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute to their innovative energy solutions.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your technical skills and be ready to discuss your experience with FACTS and HVDC systems. Be prepared to dive deep into your past projects and how they relate to the role you're applying for.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at SSEN Transmission.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer – FACTS/HVDC in Perth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Engineer role. Highlight your experience with FACTS and HVDC systems, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about this role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of our mission at StudySmarter.
Showcase Your Technical Skills: Since this role involves complex engineering tasks, make sure to showcase your technical skills clearly. Mention specific standards and technologies you’ve worked with, like IEC 61850 or Hardware-in-the-Loop testing. We want to know you can hit the ground running!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Equal Approach Ltd
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of FACTS and HVDC systems, especially Control & Protection requirements. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role. This will show that you're not just familiar with the concepts but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex engineering challenges in the past. Think about times when you had to challenge assumptions or refine project scopes. This will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to think critically, which is crucial for this position.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves direct stakeholder involvement, be prepared to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with different teams or clients. Highlight your mentoring experience and how you've guided others in technical matters, as this will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Stay Updated on Industry Standards
Familiarise yourself with key industry standards like IEC 61850 and the UK Grid Code. Being able to reference these during your interview will show that you're not only knowledgeable but also committed to maintaining high standards in your work.