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- Tasks: Lead the design and governance of overhead line projects in a flexible work environment.
- Company: Join SSE, a pioneering energy company committed to a net zero future.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and wellness perks like gym discounts and online GP access.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the energy transition while advancing your engineering career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Engineering and expert knowledge of transmission voltage overhead lines required.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team that values diverse backgrounds and experiences.
The predicted salary is between 48100 - 69100 £ 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 one of our SSEN offices or depots around Scotland, Perth, Glasgow, Aberdeen, Inverness.
Salary: £58,100 to £87,100 + 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 looking for a Principal Engineer – Overhead Lines to join its Network Engineering Team, which oversees design and technical governance across Transmission projects. The team ensures policies, standards, and designs meet safety, reliability, and legal requirements.
You will:
- Write, maintain and own technical specifications and guidance notes required for all Overhead Line equipment used on the Transmission network and review existing specifications and update them based on lessons learnt from projects and to include development of technology.
- As part of the Technical Authority, review test plans and witness tests to ensure that all technology and equipment selected is adequately tested, proven and validated and review proposed suppliers to confirm their suitability to be approved for use on the transmission network.
- Provide Subject Matter Expert input to design reviews carried out by the Design Authority, provide specialist input where required, verify project proposals are fit for purpose and identify any scope changes required.
- Provide technical guidance and advice to the transmission business for new OHL assets, OHL replacements or fault investigations of failed plant.
- Represent SSEN Transmission at industry body events such as ENA, IEC or CIGRE working groups and attend conferences.
You have:
- A degree in Electrical, Mechanical or Civil Engineering or another relevant engineering discipline and Chartered Engineer status with a relevant institution or working towards chartered status.
- Demonstrable experience on an expert level in the design, specification, construction, operation and maintenance of transmission voltage overhead lines at 132kV and above comprising all civil, mechanical and electrical aspects.
- The ability and experience to technically assess issues and/or problems and critically assess a range of technical solutions and an in depth understanding of the technical requirements for design, planning, operation and development of OHLs.
- A detailed knowledge and understanding of a range of National Grid, British and European Standards alongside the capability and experience in writing technical specifications, guidance notes and work instructions for all OHL aspects.
- Experience in manufacturing and testing of transmission voltage OHL plant and equipment would also be advantageous.
About SSE:
SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're 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.
SSEN Transmission owns and operates 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'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 or 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.
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.
Principal Engineer Overhead Lines employer: SSE PLC
Contact Detail:
SSE PLC Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer Overhead Lines
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, conferences, and workshops related to overhead lines. This is your chance to meet potential employers and showcase your expertise in person.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge. Be ready to discuss your experience with transmission voltage overhead lines and how you've tackled challenges in past projects.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a good follow-up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining SSEN Transmission and contributing to our mission of a net zero world.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer Overhead Lines
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with overhead lines and relevant engineering disciplines. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Technical Knowledge: Since this role involves a lot of technical specifications and guidance notes, be sure to include examples of your previous work in these areas. We love seeing candidates who can demonstrate their understanding of standards and technical requirements.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon unless it’s necessary. Make it easy for us to see why you’re the right fit for the Principal Engineer position.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the only way we accept applications, and it ensures that your details are processed correctly. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE PLC
✨Know Your Technical Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of overhead lines, especially at 132kV and above. Be ready to discuss technical specifications, design requirements, and any relevant standards. This role is all about expertise, so show them you know your stuff!
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific engineering challenges or project scenarios. Think about past experiences where you’ve had to assess technical issues or propose solutions. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers.
✨Show Your Collaborative Spirit
SSEN Transmission values teamwork, so be prepared to talk about how you’ve worked with others in the past. Highlight any experience you have in cross-functional teams or industry events. They want to see that you can represent the company well and work collaboratively.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how they’re tackling the transition to net zero. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.
