At a Glance
- Tasks: Operate and optimise hydro generation, balancing market signals and environmental responsibility.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in renewable energy and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, flexible benefits, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's renewable energy future while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: HNC in engineering or science, with operational experience in power systems.
The predicted salary is between 61620 - 72592 £ per year.
Base Location: 24/7 Hydro Operations Centre, Perth
Salary: £61,620 - £72,592 + performance-related bonus + shift allowance + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time
The role
Are you passionate about hydro generation and real-time power system operations? Join SSE’s Hydro Operations Centre in Perth, where you’ll play a critical role in safely operating and optimising one of the UK’s most important renewable energy fleets. As a Hydro Schedule & Dispatch Engineer, you’ll be at the heart of real-time decision-making, balancing commercial value, system security, and environmental responsibility. From managing generation output to responding to rapidly changing network and weather conditions, your work will directly support the reliability of the electricity system and SSE’s net-zero ambitions.
You will:
- Operate and optimise the Hydro Generation fleet to maximise value while minimising operational and commercial risk.
- Develop and deliver strategic operating schedules for hydro power stations, balancing market signals, plant capability, and water resource constraints.
- Act as SSE’s control point for all operational interactions with National Grid, ensuring full compliance with the Grid Code.
- Dispatch generation in real time, responding to events such as weather changes, plant faults, outages, and network reconfigurations.
- Protect what matters most — ensuring all decisions uphold SSE’s PEAR principles: People, Environment, Assets, and Reputation.
- Work from a 24/7 operational control environment, collaborating with engineers, asset managers, and external stakeholders to maintain safe and reliable operations.
You have:
- A minimum HNC (or equivalent) in an engineering or science discipline, with relevant operational or power systems experience.
- Experience with generating plant and/or high-voltage systems, ideally in an operational or control-room setting.
- A working understanding of the energy market and the Balancing Mechanism.
- Strong attention to detail, self-motivation, and the ability to manage competing priorities effectively.
- A genuine interest in hydro generation, with an understanding of hydro schemes and power station characteristics.
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. We lead the way in the development, build, and operation of renewable power assets, including windfarms, hydro power stations, and solar and battery projects. Join a global team of 1,800 energy experts powering the transition to a net zero 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.
Work with an equal opportunity employer
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.
Hydro Schedule and Dispatch Engineer in Perth employer: SSE Enterprise
SSE is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment at the Hydro Operations Centre in Perth, where you can contribute to the UK's renewable energy future. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, we provide flexible benefits, including discounts on healthcare and gym memberships, alongside generous family entitlements. Our commitment to professional growth and an inclusive culture ensures that every team member has the opportunity to thrive while making a meaningful impact on the energy transition.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hydro Schedule and Dispatch Engineer in Perth
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughSSE Enterprise's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through SSE Enterprise's website for the full-time Hydro Schedule and Dispatch Engineer role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Hydro Schedule and Dispatch Engineer in Perth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at SSE Enterprise. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE Enterprise
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of SSE Enterprise.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to SSE Enterprise.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
