At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in designing and managing operational technology solutions for the distribution network.
- Company: Join SSE, a leader in energy transition and infrastructure development.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and wellness perks like gym discounts and online GP access.
- Other info: Flexible benefits and an inclusive workplace culture await you at SSE.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on energy solutions while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical Engineering and significant experience in the utility/engineering industry required.
The predicted salary is between 80588 - 96301 £ per year.
Base Location: You'll be expected to spend 50% of your working week in one of our offices in Melksham, Oxford, Reading or Thatcham.
Salary: £80,588 - £96,301 + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available
The role We're excited to offer a fantastic opportunity for a Technical Services Design Manager to lead our team. Our Technical Services team delivers Operational Technology solutions across the distribution network, including the design and operation of Protection and Control Systems, Real-Time Systems and increasingly, Telecommunications Systems. We play a key role in ensuring the network operates safely and reliably, while continuously evolving to meet future demands.
You will:
- Promote and manage operational safety across the Distribution network, developing safe systems of work and ensuring the correct commissioning of protection schemes.
- Oversee planning, design, and delivery of Protection and Real Time systems (6.6kV to 132kV) for the Distribution South network, including complex design, commissioning, and fault diagnosis.
- Manage a team of engineers, ensuring compliance with processes and codes, and collaborating with central policy teams on strategy and asset database management.
- Provide day-to-day management, mentoring, and expert guidance on operational matters within your area of expertise.
- Collaborate with external partners, trade bodies, and other business units to influence strategy and design in Protection & Control, staying up to date with technological advancements.
You have:
- Significant experience in the utility/engineering industry with a degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.
- Extensive knowledge of electricity network operations, including technical, safety, and outage management requirements.
- Expertise in Protection & Real Time Systems and deep understanding of statutory, regulatory, and licenced requirements.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills for technical performance issues and clear reporting.
- Proven ability to lead, coach teams, prioritise workloads, and meet targets and deadlines effectively.
This role involves travel across various locations to support business needs. To enable you to fulfil these responsibilities, as a role requirement, the company will provide access to a vehicle for work-related travel. The requirement will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and if the company car policy criteria are met, there will be an opportunity to join the company car scheme. Provision of a company car or cash allowance does not form part of the contractual terms and conditions of employment for this role. A valid driving licence is essential.
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 Distribution, part of the wider SSE group, powers 3.9 million UK homes and businesses. Our team of more than 4,200 skilled engineers, customer service advisors and energy experts keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.
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 fiona.smith@sse.com / 01738 340954 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. If you're offered a role with SSE, you'll need to complete a criminality check and a credit check before you start work.
Technical Services Design Manager in Thatcham employer: SSE
SSE is an excellent employer that fosters a collaborative and innovative work culture, particularly in the vibrant Scottish locations where this role is based. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, enabling them to grow their careers while contributing to Scotland's Net-Zero ambitions. With a strong commitment to health and safety, SSE ensures a supportive environment where every team member can thrive and make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Services Design Manager in Thatcham
✨Join Engineering Meetups!
Get yourself along to local engineering meetups or tech conferences. These are great places to connect with like-minded folks and industry leaders who might just have a lead on that full-time Technical Services Design Manager role you’re after at SSE.
✨Show Off Your Projects!
Don’t be shy about showcasing your engineering projects. Whether it’s a funky app, a mechanical design, or a complex algorithm, having a solid portfolio on platforms like GitHub can really make you stand out. Plus, it gives potential employers at SSE a taste of what you can bring to the table!
✨Engage with Online Communities
Dive into engineering forums and online communities, like Reddit or specific engineering Discord channels. Sharing your insights, asking questions, and being active can help you build connections that might lead to job opportunities at SSE.
✨Apply Through Company Websites
When you spot a role like Technical Services Design Manager at SSE, apply directly through their website. Often, this can show your genuine interest in the company and you might just get noticed quicker than via typical job boards.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Services Design Manager in Thatcham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Technical Expertise:When applying for an engineering role like Technical Services Design Manager, it’s essential to highlight your technical skills. Include any relevant software or tools you're proficient in on your CV—think CAD software, simulation tools, or programming languages. Don't skimp on any engineering projects you've worked on that demonstrate your ability to solve complex problems.
Focus on Results and Impact:In the engineering world, we love numbers and real-world impact. Quantify your achievements wherever possible—like reducing costs by a certain percentage, improving efficiency, or successfully completing a project ahead of schedule. This gives your future employers at SSE a clear picture of the value you can bring.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Use your cover letter to express your passion for engineering and explain why you’re drawn to SSE specifically. Share what aspects of their work excite you and how your values align with theirs. This is your chance to show a bit of personality while keeping it professional!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you have any engineering certifications, especially ones that are recognised in your field, make sure to feature them prominently on your CV. They demonstrate not just your knowledge, but also your commitment to professional development, which is something we at StudySmarter value highly.
How to prepare for a job interview at SSE
✨Brush Up on Core Engineering Principles
Before heading into the interview with SSE, make sure you're solid on the fundamental engineering principles relevant to the role. Be ready to discuss concepts such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, or structural analysis, depending on the specifics mentioned in the job description. Don’t skip any hands-on projects or coursework; these can be excellent talking points!
✨Show Off Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect technical questions or case studies during your interview—after all, engineering is all about solving problems! Prepare a few examples of how you've tackled engineering challenges in the past, whether at university or in any practical experience. Practising with mock technical interviews can really help you articulate your thought process and solutions.
✨Relate Your Experience to the Role
In a full-time role, employers like SSE want to see that you can adapt and grow within their team. Be ready to discuss how your previous internships, projects, or studies relate directly to the work you'll be doing. Highlight specific experiences that showcase your collaborative skills and how you've successfully worked within a team environment.
✨Know Your Tools and Software
Most engineering roles require familiarity with specific tools and software. Prepare to talk about your proficiency with programmes like AutoCAD, MATLAB, or SolidWorks if they’re relevant to the role. Even better, have examples of projects where you’ve used these tools, as it'll demonstrate your hands-on experience and readiness for the job.
