Principal Engineer - HVDC Systems - Convertors

Base Location

Flexible Scotland – this role requires a home location at an SSEN office or depot in Perth, Glasgow, Aberdeen or Inverness.

£58,100 – £87,100 + car/car allowance + performance‑related bonus + a range of financial, wellbeing and family benefits.

Permanent, Full Time – Flexible First options available.

As a Principal Engineer you’ll provide technical leadership across multiple projects or portfolios, setting direction for HVDC converter equipment strategy, standards and long‑term engineering decisions. The role is broader in scope and influence, with accountability for technical governance, risk and consistency, while also shaping supplier strategy, driving innovation, representing the business externally and building capability across the wider engineering community.

Candidates who may not meet all requirements may also be considered for a Senior Engineer position.

• Write, review, maintain and own technical specifications and guidance notes for all HVDC Converter Equipment used on the Transmission network, integrating with existing SSEN specifications.
• Provide technical guidance and advice to the transmission business for HVDC network development, refurbishment, or fault investigations of failed plant.
• Participate in and lead supplier engagement and innovation projects to evaluate new technologies for HVDC applications.
• As part of the HVDC Technical Authority, review test plans and witness tests to ensure technology and equipment are validated, and review proposed suppliers for suitability to the network.
• Provide SME input to design reviews, give specialist input where required, verify project proposals for fit for purpose and identify any required scope changes.

• A degree in Electrical Engineering or a relevant discipline and Chartered Engineer status or working towards it.
• Expert level experience in design, specification, construction, control, operation and maintenance of HVDC systems, including integration in various environments.
• Ability to assess technical issues and critically evaluate solutions, with deep understanding of development, design, planning, control, integration and operation of HVDC systems.
• Significant understanding of interfaces between AC network design and HVDC systems.
• Detailed knowledge of National Grid, British and European Standards, UK grid code and SQSS, and experience in writing technical specifications, guidance notes and instructions for HVDC aspects.

Enjoy discounts on private healthcare and gym memberships, wellbeing benefits such as free online GP and 24/7 counselling, interest‑free loans on tech and transport season tickets, and a Cycle to Work scheme. Family entitlements include maternity and adoption pay, and paternity leave.

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure your application and experience are positive. We welcome applications from all backgrounds and especially from those who may not be well represented in our workforce or industry.