At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our HVDC Engineering Team and support major energy projects across their full lifecycle.
- Company: SSE, a leading energy company committed to a net zero future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, health perks, and family support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on the UK's energy infrastructure while developing your engineering skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in engineering and 5 years' project engineering experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Base Location: For this role, we require successful applicants to be based from one of our Scottish locations – Glasgow, Aberdeen, Perth or Inverness.
Salary: £50,100 - c£65,000 + car / cash allowance + performance‑related bonus + a range of other benefits to support your family, finances and wellbeing.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible options available.
The role:
As part of the SSEN Transmission Pathway to 2030 programme of works, we are recruiting for a Project Engineer - Main Plant to join our HVDC Engineering Team. This role will sit in SSEN Transmission’s Offshore within the HVDC Engineering team working on one of several major HVDC projects underway, this is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in one of the UK’s most important energy infrastructure programmes.
We encourage candidates with a project engineering background, ideally with experience in HVDC or with main plant OEM as either contractor, consultancy, or client organisation.
You will:
- Provide HVDC main plant engineering support on projects across the full project life cycle, working as part of a multi‑discipline project engineering team.
- Undertake assurance of contractor Main Plant deliverables, single line diagram, main circuit parameters, general arrangement drawings, transient studies, insulation coordination and layouts.
- Attend site visits agreed with the engineering and project teams.
- Prepare and co‑ordinate design assurance reviews and the delivery of key project Gate Review documentation as per Large Capital Projects Governance.
- Drive design maturity and delivery of scope to required quality and programme whilst ensuring all contractor deliverables are signed off accordingly.
- Champion a positive safety culture and support compliance with CDM regulations and SSEN's engineering standards throughout the project lifecycle.
- Work closely with Engineering Managers and Project Managers to ensure that Engineering and Quality risks are identified and mitigated.
You have:
- A degree or equivalent experience in a relevant engineering discipline (preferably electrical or mechanical).
- Chartered status or working toward it is desirable.
- About 5 years’ experience in project engineering, ideally with exposure to complex, multi‑disciplinary projects.
- Strong technical skills in HVDC development, design, and specification—or demonstrable transferable experience.
- The ability to problem solve with the strength of character to ensure critical matters are addressed by the project teams.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to translate technical issues into clear language for both technical and non‑technical stakeholders.
The role requires a full current driving licence due to the requirement to travel to and be on site.
About SSE:
SSE has a bold ambition – to be a leading energy company in a net zero world. We're investing around £10 million a day in homegrown energy to help power a cleaner, more secure future. 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. 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.
- 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 Stephanie at stephanie.murphy@sse.com or 01738 342963 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.
Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level
Employment type: Full‑time
Job function: Strategy/Planning, Science, and Engineering
Industries: Utilities, Oil and Gas, and Renewable Energy Semiconductor Manufacturing
HVDC Project Engineer – Main Plant employer: Ssen Transmission
SSE is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in the heart of Scotland, where you can contribute to vital energy infrastructure projects that support a net zero future. With a strong focus on employee wellbeing, flexible working patterns, and comprehensive benefits, including generous family entitlements and professional development opportunities, SSE fosters a culture of inclusivity and growth. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team dedicated to making a positive impact on communities and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land HVDC Project Engineer – Main Plant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at SSEN Transmission on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral, which can really boost your chances.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your HVDC knowledge. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role. Show us your problem-solving skills and how you can tackle challenges head-on!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your communication skills! Practice explaining complex technical concepts in simple terms. This will help you connect with both technical and non-technical stakeholders during the interview.
✨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 our team. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace HVDC Project Engineer – Main Plant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the HVDC Project Engineer role. Highlight your relevant experience in project engineering and any specific HVDC projects you've worked on. We want to see how your skills match 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 this role and how your background makes you a great fit. Don’t forget to mention your problem-solving skills and ability to communicate technical issues clearly.
Showcase Your Technical Skills:In your application, be sure to showcase your strong technical skills in HVDC development and design. We love candidates who can demonstrate their expertise and how it applies to our projects. Make it clear how you can contribute to our team!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications made online through our website. So, make sure to hit that 'Apply Now' button! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and get the ball rolling.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ssen Transmission
✨Know Your HVDC Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your HVDC knowledge before the interview. Understand the key concepts, recent advancements, and challenges in the field. Being able to discuss specific projects or technologies will show that you're genuinely interested and knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Project Engineering Experience
Prepare examples from your past work that highlight your project engineering skills, especially in multi-disciplinary environments. Be ready to discuss how you've managed project deliverables, worked with contractors, and ensured quality assurance in previous roles.
✨Communicate Clearly
Since the role requires translating technical issues for non-technical stakeholders, practice explaining complex concepts in simple terms. This will demonstrate your strong communication skills, which are crucial for the position.
✨Emphasise Safety and Compliance
Familiarise yourself with CDM regulations and SSEN's engineering standards. Be prepared to discuss how you've championed safety culture in past projects and how you plan to ensure compliance in your future role.