At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive and operate test vans to locate cable faults and support operational teams.
- Company: Join SP Energy Networks, a leader in renewable energy and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 36 days leave, and a strong benefits package.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Full UK driving licence and knowledge of electrical distribution networks required.
- Other info: Great career progression opportunities in a diverse and inclusive environment.
The predicted salary is between 29200 - 36000 £ per year.
Location: Telferton office, Edinburgh. Regular travel to sites is required.
Permanent / Full Time (37 hours per week)
Closing Date: 16th February 2026
Help us create a better future, quicker! At SP Energy Networks, our focus is on harnessing technology and innovation to create the networks of the future. Our team is building a dynamic network to meet the changing demands for electricity and increasingly, renewable electricity – safely, securely, and sustainably in the communities we serve. We know people are central to building a better future, quicker, and we are seeking new talent to join our team.
We’re looking for a motivated and safety focused Test Van Operator to join our SPD Technical Support team. In this key operational role, you’ll be responsible for safely driving, setting up and operating specialist test vans used to locate faults on 11kV and 33kV cables. You will support fault location activities, undertake routine maintenance, and carry out compliance and workshop tasks to keep our network running safely and reliably. This is a great opportunity for someone with a knowledge of electrical distribution networks who enjoys problem solving, working hands‑on, and supporting operational teams in the field.
What You’ll Be Doing- Carrying out safety checks, set‑up and safe operation of test vans to locate 11kV and 33kV cable faults.
- Using pulse echo, burning, current and voltage coupler fault location methods.
- Conducting minor maintenance to ensure the test vans and equipment remain in optimal condition.
- Supporting Senior Authorised Persons on site with front‑line operational tasks.
- Completing essential interlock and safety checks in line with Energy Networks Safety Rules.
- Providing training and guidance to graduates and trainee engineers.
- Inspecting and testing test prods, earthing equipment and electrical working tools.
- Updating compliance registers and supporting plant workshop activities.
- Maintaining positive customer relations throughout the fault‑finding process.
- A full UK driving licence is mandatory, as this role involves regular travel to sites using the test vans.
- Sound knowledge of cable fault location and fault management techniques.
- Strong understanding of LV & HV distribution networks, plant, protection and earthing systems.
- Awareness of Energy Networks Health, Safety and Environmental requirements.
- Logical, methodical approach with an interest in electrical principles and problem‑solving.
- Ability to work flexibly, take ownership and contribute positively to team goals.
- Excellent communication skills and ability to build effective working relationships.
- High level of customer focus and commitment to continuous improvement.
- Financial awareness relating to fault costs, GS & CML obligations.
- Appreciation of contractor management.
- Relevant Energy Networks operational authorisations.
- Knowledge of Safety Rules and Quality Management Systems.
As well as a competitive salary which is reviewed annually, you can also enjoy a number of other benefits. With our pension scheme, we’ll double match your contribution up to a company contribution of 10%. At ScottishPower, we believe it’s the little things we do in life that make a big difference. From helping you look after your family’s wellbeing, save for your future, and take personal steps for climate action – our benefits are designed to help you do just that - so that you have everything you need to take care of your world – today and tomorrow. That’s why our benefits include:
- 36 days annual leave
- Holiday purchase – perfect your work/life balance with extra annual leave
- Share Incentive Plan and Sharesave Scheme
- Payroll giving and charity matched funding
- Technology Vouchers – save more and spread the cost of your technology purposes
- Count us in – pledge to reduce carbon emissions and help fight climate change
- Electric Vehicle Schemes – to help you transition to green/clean driving
- Cycle to Work scheme and public transport season ticket loans
- Options to purchase dental insurance, private medical insurance, health cash plan and annual health assessments
- Life Assurance (4x salary)
- Access to ‘nudge’ financial wellbeing support
- Plus shopping, leisure, restaurant and gym discounts, and unique employee deals on travel insurance and more
SP Energy Networks is part of the Iberdrola Group, one of the world’s largest integrated utility companies and a world leader in wind energy. We keep electricity flowing to homes and businesses through Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales and in the North West of England. We operate over 4000km of cables and lines that make-up the transmission network – connecting infrastructure like wind farms into the electricity system. It’s a role that puts us right at the heart of Scotland’s ambition to be Net Zero by 2044. And we’re taking it very seriously.
We’re investing >£5.5 billion into our transmission network, directly supporting the rapid growth needed in renewable energy. With diverse opportunities across our businesses and a commitment to invest in our own internal talent, ScottishPower can offer people real career opportunities that meet personal and professional goals, in a global organisation.
Inclusion, diversity, and a social purpose are at the heart of everything we do. Together with our values, they bring us together into a stronger, more sustainable business with direct links to the communities we serve. It takes all kinds of people to build a large-scale business like ours, so whatever your background, you’ll fit right in.
We are committed to providing reasonable support or adjustments in our recruiting processes for candidates with disabilities, long term conditions, mental health conditions, or who are neurodivergent or require pregnancy-related support. If you need support, please reach out to careers@scottishpower.com.
Test Van Operator employer: Iberdrola Group
Contact Detail:
Iberdrola Group Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Test Van Operator
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the industry, attend local events, and connect with current employees at SP Energy Networks. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge about cable fault location and electrical distribution networks. We want to see your problem-solving skills in action, so think of examples from your past experiences that showcase your expertise.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your customer focus! During interviews, highlight how you’ve maintained positive relationships in previous roles. Remember, we’re all about creating a better future for our communities, so let that passion shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at SP Energy Networks.
We think you need these skills to ace Test Van Operator
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Test Van Operator role. Highlight your experience with cable fault location and any relevant safety checks you've performed. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Show Your Passion: Let us know why you're excited about this role! Share your interest in electrical distribution networks and problem-solving. A bit of enthusiasm can really make your application stand out.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon unless it's relevant. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point!
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details directly and can process your application smoothly. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Iberdrola Group
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of cable fault location and the techniques involved. Familiarise yourself with the specific methods mentioned in the job description, like pulse echo and current/voltage coupler methods. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also prepared to hit the ground running.
✨Safety First
Since this role involves operating test vans and working with electrical systems, be ready to discuss safety protocols. Understand the Energy Networks Safety Rules and be prepared to explain how you would ensure compliance during your daily tasks. This will demonstrate your commitment to safety and reliability.
✨Show Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully solved problems, especially in a hands-on environment. Highlight your logical and methodical approach to troubleshooting issues, as this is key for a Test Van Operator. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Build Rapport
Excellent communication skills are crucial for this role, especially when maintaining positive customer relations. Practice how you would introduce yourself and engage with interviewers. Think about how you can convey your ability to build effective working relationships, as this will be important when supporting operational teams in the field.