At a Glance
- Tasks: Optimise hydro plant operations and develop production plans for maximum efficiency.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in renewable energy and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, healthcare discounts, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team dedicated to a net zero future.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the energy transition while growing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering or relevant experience in hydro or energy operations.
The predicted salary is between 61620 - 72592 € per year.
Base Location: You'll be expected to spend 50% of your working week in one of the following locations - Contin / Perth / Sloy.
Salary: SSE09 £61,620-£72,592 depending on skills and experience + annual bonus + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent Full Time Flexible First options available.
Role
The Operational Planning Engineer plays a key role in optimising hydro plant operation and production planning to maximise value from SSE's hydro assets. Working across Commercial Planning, Water Management, Hydro Operations Control (HOC) and Asset Management, the role translates system level constraints and opportunities into clear, robust production plans. It balances short term operational decision making with longer term planning and continuous improvement, ensuring safe, compliant and efficient operation of the hydro fleet. This role offers a strong development opportunity for engineers looking to broaden from operational delivery into system level planning, optimisation and commercial decision making, while remaining closely connected to live operations.
Main Accountabilities
- Developing and continuously improving operational procedures, guidance and planning approaches.
- Leading and influencing optimisation of hydro operating parameters, addressing performance degradation and improving production based availability.
- Supporting prioritisation and planning of defects, significant or high risk outages, with a focus on water management, compliance and value, ensuring stakeholders are aligned and impacts understood.
- Contributing to weekly and monthly production planning, working closely with Hydro Operations Control and Water Management to manage constraints and injected works.
- Leading annual and in year production reforecasting, presenting clear Production Plans to the wider business.
Qualifications
- A degree in a relevant engineering discipline or equivalent experience in an operational or maintenance role within a hydro or energy environment, including an authorisation under a safe system of work.
- Experience in operational planning, optimisation or performance improvement within hydro or comparable complex systems.
- Strong technical judgement, with the ability to challenge established practices and present evidence based recommendations.
- An understanding of operational and asset risk within strong safety, regulatory and environmental frameworks.
- A full and current UK driving licence.
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. SSE Renewables delivers the green energy the world needs today and tomorrow. 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.
Benefits
- 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.
Equal Opportunity
SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. Please contact pamela.hendry@sse.com 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.
Hydro Operational Engineer employer: SSE PLC
SSE is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where Hydro Operational Engineers can thrive while contributing to the transition to a net zero future. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, generous benefits, and opportunities for professional growth, SSE fosters a culture of inclusivity and innovation across its hydro operations in locations like Contin, Perth, and Sloy. Join a dedicated team that values your expertise and supports your development in optimising renewable energy production.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Hydro Operational Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at SSE on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by understanding SSE's values and recent projects. Show us that you're not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in how you can contribute to their mission of a net zero future.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your STAR technique for answering behavioural questions. We want to hear about specific situations where you've made an impact, especially in operational planning or optimisation.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the SSE team.
We think you need these skills to ace Hydro Operational Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Hydro Operational Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience in operational planning and optimisation, and don’t forget to showcase any specific projects that demonstrate your skills in hydro or energy environments.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background aligns with SSE's mission. Be sure to mention your understanding of operational and asset risk, as this is key for us.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, make sure to highlight your technical judgement and any experience you have with performance improvement. We want to see how you can challenge established practices and provide evidence-based recommendations.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at SSE and contributing to a net zero future.
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE PLC
✨Know Your Hydro Basics
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of hydro operations and energy systems. Understand the key concepts related to operational planning, optimisation, and performance improvement. This will help you speak confidently about how you can contribute to the role.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully tackled challenges in operational settings. Highlight how you approached these issues, the decisions you made, and the outcomes. This will demonstrate your strong technical judgement and ability to challenge established practices.
✨Align with SSE's Values
Familiarise yourself with SSE's purpose and their commitment to renewable energy. Be ready to discuss how your personal values align with theirs, especially regarding sustainability and innovation in energy. This shows that you're not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their mission.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Think of insightful questions to ask during the interview. Inquire about their current projects, challenges they face in hydro operations, or how they measure success in this role. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.
