At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape technical policy and support innovative projects in high-voltage transmission.
- Company: Join SSEN Transmission, a leader in building a sustainable energy network.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible working, and wellness perks.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent growth opportunities and support for diverse backgrounds.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the future of energy while advancing your engineering career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and experience in transmission voltage substations.
The predicted salary is between 59800 - 89800 £ 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: 59,800 - 89,800 + 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:
At SSEN Transmission, we are building a network for Net Zero - one that's smarter, more flexible, and equipped to support the future of energy. Our mission is to deliver clean, reliable investment in the network that provides long-lasting benefits for generations to come.
Our Network Engineering team sits within the Asset Management and Operations Directorate. We are responsible for ensuring that engineering activities across our Transmission projects and business areas are safe, technically sound and fully supported. We carry out Design and Technical Engineering Governance for the Transmission business, ensuring our network operates safely, reliably and in compliance with the relevant legislation.
As part of our journey, we are looking for a Principal Engineer - Substations to join our specialist team. This is a key role where you will help shape technical policy, influence industry standards, and support the delivery of innovative, future-ready projects across our high-voltage transmission network.
You will:
- Own and maintain technical specifications and guidance notes for substation designs, including substation earthing systems.
- Continuously improve existing specifications based on lessons learned and emerging technologies.
- Collaborate with other engineering disciplines, including Civil, LV/MV systems, Cables and Overhead Lines, while working closely with asset management and operations teams.
- Support the Design Authority and act as part of the Technical Authority, providing expert input into substation design reviews to ensure compliance with technical specifications and suitability for the transmission network.
- Represent SSEN Transmission at industry events and working groups, share best practice, offer technical consultancy across the business and mentor peers to support team development.
You have:
- A degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline, with Chartered Engineer status or active progress towards it.
- Strong experience in the design, specification and application of transmission voltage substations.
- The ability to critically assess technical challenges and evaluate a range of solutions, with a solid understanding of the design, planning, operation and development requirements of the transmission network.
- Familiarity with SSE Transmission, National Grid, British and European Standards, and experience writing technical specifications, guidance notes or work instructions.
- Relevant exposure to the design, manufacturing, testing, installation or maintenance of transmission voltage plant and equipment, plus a passion for engineering excellence and helping shape the future of the UK’s transmission network.
About SSE:
SSE’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 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.
- 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 andrew.torrance@sse.com / 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 - Substations in Huntly 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 Principal Engineer - Substations in Huntly
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
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We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - Substations in Huntly
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Principal Engineer - 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.
