At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the operation of a critical electricity transmission system and shape its future strategy.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transition and infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and a range of wellbeing perks.
- Other info: Flexible First approach to work with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's journey to net zero while leading a high-performing team.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in electricity transmission and strong technical knowledge required.
The predicted salary is between 80700 - 121100 £ per year.
Base Location: Flexible Scotland | We're proud to offer a Flexible First approach to work, and this role is no exception. We will, however, need your base 'home' location to be in our Perth Control Room.
Salary: £80,700 - £121,100 + 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 a major programme of network growth to support the UK’s transition to net zero, including connecting significant renewable generation across the north of Scotland. We are looking for a Head of System Control to lead the safe, secure and reliable 24/7 operation of the transmission system, shaping the long-term operational strategy needed to support a rapidly expanding and increasingly complex network.
You will:
- Set and deliver the System Control strategy for the north of Scotland transmission network, ensuring operational readiness for major network growth, new technologies and renewable connections through to 2030 and beyond.
- Lead 24/7 system operations across real-time, planned, unplanned, fault and major event scenarios, protecting safety, system integrity and energy security.
- Work closely with NESO, Ofgem, government, transmission owners, generators and internal project teams to support safe commissioning, outage planning and delivery of nationally significant transmission projects.
- Build, develop and lead a high-performing team of senior managers, control room specialists and technical experts, ensuring the right skills, tools and resources are in place for future network operation.
- Provide senior operational leadership during major incidents, crisis management and electricity system restoration events, making high-impact decisions that balance safety, reliability, regulatory obligations and long-term business outcomes.
You have:
- Senior leadership experience in electricity transmission, system operation or another nationally critical, highly regulated operational environment.
- Strong technical understanding of power systems, transmission network operations, operational safety and the regulatory obligations that apply to electricity transmission networks.
- Degree qualified in Electrical Engineering, or able to demonstrate equivalent professional experience; ideally chartered or operating at a comparable professional level.
- Proven ability to lead, coach and develop specialist teams, building capability, resilience and a positive safety culture in a high-pressure operational setting.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the confidence to influence at senior levels across industry, regulatory and internal networks, including during complex or time-critical situations.
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. As well as 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.
Head of System Control in Perth employer: SSE PLC
SSE plc is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee wellbeing and work-life balance, offering flexible working patterns in a dynamic hybrid environment. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees have access to generous benefits and opportunities for growth within the energy sector, making it a rewarding place to advance your career while contributing to impactful energy infrastructure projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of System Control 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 PLC's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through SSE PLC's website for the full-time Head of System Control 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 Head of System Control 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 PLC. 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 PLC
✨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 PLC.
✨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 PLC.
✨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.
