At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering teams to innovate and enhance the future of electricity transmission.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in clean energy and infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, health perks, and family support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the transition to Net Zero while leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering with strong leadership and technical skills in high-voltage systems.
The predicted salary is between 101000 - 151400 £ per year.
Base Location: For this role, we require successful applicants to be based from one of our Scottish locations and you'll be expected to spend 50% of your working week in the office – Perth, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Inverness.
Salary: 101,000 - 151,400 + 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: SSEN Transmission is delivering one of the most ambitious periods of electricity network investment in the UK, with our network expected to double in size over the next six years as we enable the transition to Net Zero. We’re looking for a Head of Engineering – Substations to provide technical and people leadership across our Substations engineering discipline, shaping how we design, develop and assure the transmission network of the future.
Key responsibilities:
- Provide technical leadership across the Substations discipline, setting direction and ensuring the right engineering standards, policies and technical guidance are in place.
- Lead Technical Authority for Substations, ensuring engineering decisions are consistent, robust and well governed across all projects.
- Drive innovation, Value Engineering and standardisation, challenging established approaches and embedding smarter, repeatable solutions that improve project and asset outcomes.
- Provide senior technical judgement on complex or novel engineering challenges, balancing safety, reliability, operability, constructability, cost, programme and whole-life value.
- Build a high-performing engineering community, leading and developing around 40 engineering specialists while strengthening technical capability, future leadership and collaboration across SSEN Transmission, our supply chain and industry partners.
What do I need?
- A degree-level engineering qualification or equivalent experience, ideally with an electrical engineering background.
- Strong technical knowledge of high-voltage electrical systems and Substation engineering, with the breadth and judgement to navigate complex engineering challenges.
- Significant senior engineering or technical leadership experience, ideally within electricity transmission, utilities or another safety-critical infrastructure environment.
- A strong understanding of engineering governance, Technical Authority and Design Authority, combined with the credibility to influence, challenge and support senior stakeholders and technical teams.
- Exceptional people leadership, communication and commercial judgement, with a track record of developing high-performing technical teams and a genuine passion for innovation and continuous improvement.
About SSE:
SSE’s purpose is to be restless every day until we make electricity clean, affordable and available for all. We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. This includes electricity transmission and distribution networks, onshore and offshore wind farms, hydro-electric power and flexible thermal generation. Our investment plan will see SSE invest 33bn in critical electricity infrastructure to 2030.
SSEN Transmission own and operate the electricity transmission network across the north of Scotland. We transport electricity 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 power for the future and building the infrastructure needed for a cleaner electricity system 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. 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.
Head of Engineering - Substations employer: Scottish and Southern Energy
SSE Thermal is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Perth where you can thrive as a Risk Manager. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, flexible working options, and a culture that promotes inclusivity and continuous improvement, SSE provides ample opportunities for professional growth while contributing to the energy transition. Enjoy competitive salaries, performance-related bonuses, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your financial and personal needs.
Contact Details:
Scottish and Southern Energy Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Engineering - Substations
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Head of Engineering - Substations role you’re after at Scottish and Southern Energy.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at Scottish and Southern Energy a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at Scottish and Southern Energy.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Head of Engineering - Substations at Scottish and Southern Energy, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Engineering - Substations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Head of Engineering - Substations, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at Scottish and Southern Energy a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to Scottish and Southern Energy specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish and Southern Energy
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with Scottish and Southern Energy, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like Scottish and Southern Energy want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
