At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our legal team to advise on planning and environmental matters for major infrastructure projects.
- Company: SSE is a leading energy company committed to a net zero future, investing in renewable energy.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, healthcare discounts, wellbeing support, and generous family entitlements.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving the transition to low carbon energy while developing your legal career.
- Qualifications: Qualified Solicitor in Scotland with up to five years' experience in planning and environment law.
- Other info: We promote an inclusive workplace and welcome applications from diverse backgrounds.
The predicted salary is between 36600 - 51200 £ per year.
Base Location: Glasgow, Perth, Aberdeen, Inverness
Salary: £42,600 - £64,000 (depending on skills and experience) + 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
We are looking to recruit a Planning, Environment and Consenting Solicitor to join our SSEN Transmission Property Environment and Consenting Legal Team. SSEN Transmission plays a critical role in the transition to a low carbon future as it develops, builds, maintains and operates a Network for Net Zero. The team supports the SSEN Transmission business that owns and maintains the electricity transmission network in its licence area with its first priority being the provision of a safe and reliable supply of electricity to the communities it serves. As the way we live our lives changes, SSEN Transmission is delivering billions of pounds of investment that is required to meet the low carbon energy demands now and in the future. Through a fair, balanced and considered investment programme, SSEN Transmission is committed to improving network reliability and enabling the transition to Net Zero. It is a fantastic time to join us to develop your career in this high profile and rapidly evolving sector.
You will:
- Work with colleagues across the business including the planning, environment and marine team, the land team, regulation, project delivery, asset management and operations whilst advising on a variety of consenting matters.
- Be involved in engagement activities with stakeholders in the development and delivery of strategic infrastructure projects.
- Provide proactive and pragmatic legal advice on a range of legal, consenting, regulatory and operational issues and ensure legal risks are understood and managed.
You have:
- Qualified as a Solicitor in Scotland with up to five years post qualifying experience in a planning, environment and consenting role.
- Excellent ability to manage workload and manage and deliver to client expectations.
- Significant experience of advising on, drafting and negotiating planning contracts, with ability to negotiate and advise on complex issues.
- Excellent planning awareness, with the ability to provide legal advice on both day-to-day matters and more complex issues in a risk-aware and solutions focused way.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong and collaborative partnerships based on trust.
About SSE
SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We’re building the world’s largest offshore wind farm. Transforming the grid to provide greener electricity for millions of people and investing over £20 billion in homegrown energy, with £20 billion more in the pipeline. At SSE, we’ve created a culture of integrity, quality, responsibility and ethical behaviour. Our Legal division protects our culture by ensuring our actions are legally sound and in line with business priorities. They identify legal risk, provide advice on regulatory and statutory obligations, and help each SSE business meet its strategic goals.
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 laura.morrison@sse.com / 01738 341814 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.
Planning, Environment and Consenting Solicitor employer: SSE PLC
Contact Detail:
SSE PLC Recruiting Team
laura.morrison@sse.com
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning, Environment and Consenting Solicitor
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest developments in planning and environmental law, especially those related to energy and infrastructure. This knowledge will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the sector.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the energy and legal sectors. Attend industry events or webinars where you can meet people who work at SSEN or similar companies. Building these connections can provide valuable insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific projects or cases you've worked on that relate to planning, environment, and consenting. Be ready to explain your role, the challenges faced, and how you navigated complex legal issues, as this will showcase your practical experience.
✨Tip Number 4
Research SSEN's recent initiatives and their commitment to a low carbon future. Understanding their business goals and values will allow you to tailor your discussions and show how your skills align with their mission during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning, Environment and Consenting Solicitor
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in planning, environment, and consenting roles. Emphasise your qualifications as a Solicitor in Scotland and any specific projects or cases that demonstrate your expertise in these areas.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should reflect your understanding of SSEN Transmission's role in the transition to a low carbon future. Discuss how your skills align with their mission and how you can contribute to their legal team.
Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills: In your application, provide examples of how you've built strong relationships with stakeholders in previous roles. Highlight your communication skills and ability to work collaboratively across teams, as this is crucial for the position.
Research the Company: Familiarise yourself with SSE's recent initiatives and business plans, especially regarding their commitment to net zero. Mentioning specific projects or values in your application can demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE PLC
✨Understand the Role and Company
Before your interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the role of a Planning, Environment and Consenting Solicitor and how it fits within SSEN Transmission. Familiarise yourself with their commitment to a low carbon future and recent projects, as this will show your genuine interest in the company.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Given the nature of the role, be ready to discuss your experience with planning contracts and regulatory issues. Prepare examples from your past work that demonstrate your ability to manage complex legal matters and provide pragmatic solutions.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
SSEN Transmission values strong collaborative partnerships. Be prepared to discuss how you've built relationships in previous roles, particularly with stakeholders. Highlight your communication skills and how they have helped you navigate challenging situations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, ask questions that reflect your understanding of the industry and the company's goals. Inquire about their upcoming projects or how they plan to tackle challenges in the transition to Net Zero. This shows your enthusiasm and forward-thinking mindset.