At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our hands-on, two-year Craft Trainee Programme and support the energy transition.
- Company: SSE, a leader in sustainable energy solutions.
- Benefits: Earn while you learn, with a competitive salary and great perks.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in a vital industry and make a real difference.
- Qualifications: No prior experience needed, just a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Other info: Enjoy outdoor work, gain qualifications, and secure a permanent role post-training.
The predicted salary is between 17666 - 36686 £ per year.
Build a Long‑Term Skilled Career Supporting the Energy Transition
Base Location: Aberdeen, Arbroath, Campbeltown, Dundee, Dunoon, Fort William, Inverness, Islay, Loch Carnan - South Uist, Lochgilphead, Mull, Oban, Perth, Shetland, Tiree
Salary: circa £17,666. Salary upon finishing the programme is circa £36,686 + a range of other benefits to support your family, finances, and wellbeing.
Working Pattern: Permanent | 2‑year Trainee Programme
Start Date: August 2026
Are you looking for a hands‑on career that pays you to train in a skilled trade, while helping keep the lights on for homes, businesses and communities? Our two‑year Craft Trainee Programme combines structured training with real work experience on the electricity network. You’ll work outdoors, attend college to gain a qualification, learn from expert craft teams and progress towards becoming an authorised Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer or Overhead Linesperson — building a long‑term career in a vital and growing industry.
Choose Your Path
- Substation Fitter – work on electrical infrastructure across our network, maintaining, installing and upgrading equipment that keeps power on for customers.
- Cable Jointer – specialise in underground cables, repairing faults, connecting new customers and improving the resilience of the network.
- Overhead Linesperson – work at height on the overhead electricity network, building and maintaining power lines and restoring supplies during faults.
What The Programme Offers
- A structured two‑year programme combining paid, on‑the‑job training with hands‑on experience.
- You will attend college and work towards achieving a Technical certificate in Electrical Power Engineering.
- Practical outdoor work, supporting our teams to maintain, repair and upgrade the electricity network in local communities.
- Training at our dedicated training centres, followed by on‑the‑job learning and support from experienced craft colleagues giving you the knowledge and skills to work safely and confidently.
- All tools, PPE and equipment provided, including required business travel and accommodation.
- A permanent skilled craft role on completion, with a starting salary of around £36,686 plus overtime and clear opportunities to progress your career.
What We’re Looking For
- Someone who enjoys hands‑on, practical work and is comfortable working outdoors in varied conditions.
- A quick learner with a positive attitude, ready to build new technical skills with support from our experienced teams.
- Commitment and resilience to complete a two year programme, including periods of training away from home.
- A strong focus on safety and following procedures in a safety‑critical environment.
- Comfortable working at height for the Overhead Linesperson and Substation Fitter pathway and willing to get involved in physical, outdoor tasks.
- Working towards a driving licence, with a full UK licence expected by the end of the programme.
What To Expect & What You’ll Gain
Over the two‑year programme, you’ll complete a structured, paid training programme that combines hands‑on field experience with learning at our internal training schools. You’ll gain industry recognised qualifications, develop specialist technical skills and build the confidence to work safely and effectively across our network. Some training will be delivered in block release, meaning you may need to stay away from home for several weeks at a time. We’ll fully support your travel and accommodation, ensuring you can focus on developing your skills and progressing through the programme. By the end of your trainee programme, you’ll be ready for a rewarding, skilled role as a qualified Substation Fitter, Cable Jointer or Overhead Linesperson, with a clear pathway for future career progression.
What We Provide
- Fully funded training for you to become a qualified Craft person.
- All tools and PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) required for the role.
- A skills‑based pay matrix so your salary increases as you develop your skills (once qualified).
- Career stability within a sustainable industry with ongoing progression opportunities.
- On joining you will also have access to a range of other benefits to support your family, finances, and wellbeing.
About SSE
SSE’s purpose is to provide energy needed today while building a better world of energy for tomorrow. SSEN Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low‑carbon future.
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.
Ready to Apply
If you’re motivated, hands‑on and ready to start a meaningful career that powers communities, we’d love to hear from you. This is your chance to gain specialist skills and build a future in an essential industry. Take the first step — apply now and begin your journey as a Distribution Trainee Craftsperson.
All applications should be made online, and we will be back in touch after the vacancy closing date to let you know next steps. SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. If you would like to discuss any working differently requirements or adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact apprenticesandtrainees@sse.com by email or you are very welcome to request a call if you would prefer to discuss on the phone.
Before commencing employment with SSE, you’ll be required to fully complete our pre‑employment screening process consisting of a basic criminal records and credit check. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Please note, SSE welcomes applicants from all nationalities to apply for the Apprenticeship/Traineeships roles, however, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship as the salary does not meet the UKVI minimum salary threshold for this role.
Distribution Craft Trainee in Perth employer: Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks
Contact Detail:
Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Distribution Craft Trainee in Perth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research SSE and their values, especially around energy transition. This will help you tailor your conversations and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their mission.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend local events. Having someone inside can give you insider tips and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by practising common questions related to hands-on work and safety. Think about examples from your past experiences that showcase your skills and commitment to learning.
✨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 the team and ready to kickstart your career.
We think you need these skills to ace Distribution Craft Trainee in Perth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself: When you're filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for hands-on work and the energy sector.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your skills and experiences that align with the Distribution Craft Trainee role. Mention any relevant outdoor or practical work you've done — it’ll make you stand out!
Show Your Commitment: We’re looking for candidates who are ready to commit to a two-year programme. In your application, express your dedication to learning and growing in this field, and how you plan to tackle the challenges ahead.
Apply Online: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and keep track of everything. Plus, we’ll get back to you after the closing date to let you know what’s next!
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the basics of electrical power engineering and the specific roles of Substation Fitters, Cable Jointers, and Overhead Linespeople. Brush up on relevant terminology and concepts so you can confidently discuss them during your interview.
✨Show Your Hands-On Experience
If you've done any practical work or training related to electrical systems, be ready to share those experiences. Talk about what you learned, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your commitment to hands-on work.
✨Safety First!
Since this role involves working in a safety-critical environment, be prepared to discuss your understanding of safety protocols. Share examples of how you've prioritised safety in past experiences, whether in work or training settings.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some questions that show your interest in the company and the role. You might ask about the training process, opportunities for progression, or how the team collaborates on projects. This shows you're genuinely interested in building a long-term career with them.