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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in energy transmission and define technical policies for FACTS technology.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in the transition to net zero energy solutions.
- 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 future of energy while advancing your engineering career.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and experience with FACTS devices at transmission voltages required.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to creating equal opportunities for all.
The predicted salary is between 48100 - 75810 £ per year.
Overview
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 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 | Flexible First 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 demonstratable 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
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. 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. 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.
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.
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Principal Engineer - FACTS employer: SSE
Contact Detail:
SSE Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Engineer - FACTS
✨Tip Number 1
Network, network, network! Get out there and connect with professionals in the energy sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews like it’s a big exam. Research SSEN Transmission thoroughly, understand their projects, and be ready to discuss how your experience with FACTS devices can contribute to their goals. Practise common interview questions and have your own questions ready to show your interest.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio or a presentation that highlights your previous work with FACTS devices and HVDC technology. This can set you apart from other candidates and give you a chance to demonstrate your knowledge in a tangible way.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for new opportunities and updates. We’re always looking for passionate individuals to join our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Engineer - FACTS
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 devices and 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 the role and how your background makes you a perfect fit. Don’t forget to mention your understanding of industry standards and technical specifications.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since this role involves stakeholder engagement, make sure to demonstrate your excellent communication skills in your application. We love candidates who can clearly articulate their ideas and justify technical changes effectively.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, we only accept applications made online through our website. So, don’t miss out! Click that 'Apply Now' button and get your application in. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE
✨Know Your FACTS
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) and HVDC technology. Be prepared to discuss specific devices like STATCOM, SVC, and UPFC, and how they contribute to the stability and efficiency of high-voltage networks.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Highlight your demonstrable experience in the design, specification, and operation of FACTS devices. Use concrete examples from your past work to illustrate your expertise and how it aligns with the role's requirements.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since stakeholder engagement is key in this role, be ready to discuss how you've successfully collaborated with various teams or clients in the past. Share examples of how you’ve communicated technical changes and justified them economically.
✨Stay Updated on Standards
Familiarise yourself with the relevant National Grid, British, and European Standards, as well as the UK grid code. Being able to reference these during your interview will demonstrate your thorough understanding of the regulatory landscape and its impact on engineering practices.
