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- Tasks: Lead the design and integration of cutting-edge FACTS technologies for a smarter energy future.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transformation and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, health perks, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Shape the future of energy infrastructure and make a real impact on Net Zero goals.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering; experience with FACTS & HVDC technologies required.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 48100 - 87100 £ per year.
Base Location: Flexible Scotland. We are proud to offer a flexible approach to work, and this role is no exception. However, your base 'home' location must be one of our SSEN offices or depots around Scotland: Perth, Glasgow, Aberdeen, or Inverness.
Salary: £58,100 - £87,100 + car/car allowance + performance-related bonus + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing, and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | options available.
The role:
At SSEN Transmission, we’re leading one of the most ambitious energy-infrastructure transformations in the UK. As we make the journey toward Net Zero, our high-voltage network must become smarter, stronger, and more dynamic than ever before. Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) and advanced HVDC solutions are central to achieving this. As our new Principal Engineer – FACTS, you’ll be at the forefront of shaping how these cutting-edge technologies are designed, specified, tested, and integrated across the UK transmission system. This is an opportunity to influence national engineering policy, set standards that define the future of the grid, and directly support some of the most complex and innovative energy projects in the country.
You will:
- Own and evolve SSEN Transmission’s technical specifications for HVDC and FACTS devices (including STATCOM, SYNCOM, SVC, SSSC, and UPFC), leveraging stakeholder feedback and emerging technology insights to ensure industry-leading standards.
- Review and validate supplier test plans; witness complex acceptance tests and ensure all technology is fully proven before deployment.
- Evaluate new suppliers and technologies, approving only those capable of delivering safe, reliable, and compliant solutions.
- Provide specialist input throughout the design lifecycle, from concept through detailed review, ensuring proposals are technically sound and future-proof.
- Challenge assumptions, refine scopes, and help project teams navigate the nuances of FACTS and HVDC engineering.
- Act as a subject matter expert across the organisation, mentoring and developing engineering colleagues and strengthening our overall technical capability.
This role will also involve representing SSEN Transmission on influential national and international platforms (ENA, IEC, CIGRE), bringing back best practice that shapes our direction.
You have:
- A degree in Electrical Engineering (or similar); a MSc or PhD is desirable but not essential.
- Chartered Engineer status (or working towards it).
- Hands-on experience with FACTS & HVDC technologies in transmission environments and solid demonstrable experience of FACTS & HVDC related works.
- Deep knowledge and understanding of at least two or more of the following FACTS & HVDC topics: FACTS system & plant design, equipment specs and requirements, Control & Protection systems, MMC Valves or Synchronous Compensator Generator (SYNCOM), Operational and maintenance experience with a proven track record, Test and commissioning.
- Strong capability in assessing technical issues, validating solutions, and writing clear, effective technical specifications with a solid understanding of National Grid, British and European Standards, the UK Grid Code, SQSS and related electrical power quality standards.
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 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. We are 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:
We are 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 will be in touch after the closing date to let you know if we will be taking your application further. If you are offered a role with SSE, you will need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.
Principal Engineer - FACTS in Scotland employer: SSE Enterprise
Contact Detail:
SSE Enterprise Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer - FACTS in Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at SSEN Transmission on LinkedIn or through industry events. A friendly chat can give you insider info and might just get your foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your FACTS and HVDC knowledge. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with the role and how you can contribute to SSEN's ambitious energy transformation goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your problem-solving skills! During interviews, share specific examples of challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you tackled them. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the Principal Engineer position.
✨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 at SSEN Transmission.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - FACTS in Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Principal Engineer - FACTS role. Highlight your experience with FACTS and HVDC technologies, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about energy infrastructure and how your background makes you a perfect fit for SSEN Transmission. Keep it engaging and personal – we love to see your personality come through!
Showcase Your Technical Expertise: In your application, be sure to showcase your technical expertise in areas like FACTS system design and operational experience. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so let us know how you’ve tackled similar challenges in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at SSEN Transmission!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE Enterprise
✨Know Your FACTS
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of FACTS and HVDC technologies. Be prepared to discuss specific systems like STATCOM and SVC, and how they apply to the role. Showing that you understand the technical specifications and can articulate them clearly will impress your interviewers.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to share concrete examples from your past work that demonstrate your hands-on experience with FACTS & HVDC technologies. Highlight any projects where you’ve had to validate supplier test plans or witness complex acceptance tests, as this aligns directly with what they’re looking for.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Familiarise yourself with SSEN Transmission’s goals, especially their commitment to Net Zero and the transformation of energy infrastructure. Being able to connect your expertise to their mission will show that you’re not just a technical fit, but also a cultural one.
✨Prepare Questions
Have thoughtful questions ready about the role and the company. Ask about their current projects involving FACTS and HVDC, or how they envision the future of energy transmission. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.
