Engineer - Extra High Voltage

SSE; Portsmouth; Hybrid; GBP 49,000 - 73,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading energy company is seeking a diligent engineer for the SSEN Maintenance and Inspection team in Portsmouth. The role involves overseeing EHV project delivery and maintenance work, requiring operational authorisations and strong project management skills. Candidates should have qualifications in power system protection, alongside benefits like flexible working options and support for family wellbeing.

Benefits

Private healthcare discounts

Free online GP service

Cycle to Work scheme

Qualifications

• Operational authorisation up to 132kV or working towards it.
• Experience in design or commissioning of power system protection.
• Knowledge in protection grading studies and producing AC/DC drawings.

Responsibilities

• Lead delivery of EHV project maintenance and protection work.
• Manage safe and cost-effective project execution.
• Oversee capital, maintenance, and repair projects.

Skills

Project management skills

Team leadership

Knowledge of protection relays

CT & VT sizing calculations

Education

HNC qualification or equivalent

Tools

SAP

Job description

Base Location: Portsmouth, Basingstoke or Aldershot

Salary: £49,004 - £72,592 (depending on authorisations) + car allowance + a range of other benefits to support your family, finances and wellbeing.

Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time | Flexible First options available

We are looking for an enthusiastic and diligent engineer to join the SSEN Maintenance and Inspection team in the South East region working across the Southern Distribution Network.

You’ll lead the delivery of EHV project, maintenance and protection work (33kV–132kV) in your region, aligned with regulatory and asset management plans. Responsibilities include planning and managing outages, protection testing, liaising with National Grid and internal teams to deliver safe, cost-effective solutions on time and within budget.

You’ll oversee capital, maintenance, and repair projects, update IT systems, and manage financial accountability. Operational authorisation up to 132kV (or working towards) is required, along with knowledge of ESQCR and outage risks.

Project management skills, team leadership, and the ability to challenge and improve practices are essential. You'll also represent SSEN, maintaining strong stakeholder and customer relationships.

You will:

- Developing scoping documentation and Protection Diagrams (MC&P).

- Carrying out EHV protection testing in conjunction with the maintenance teams.

- To act as a lead for support when requested to assist with the maintenance units delivery.

- Carrying out adhoc projects in line with our RIIO-ED2 delivery.

- Using SAP authorisations to support wider teams across Distribution / CMI department.

You have:

- An HNC qualification or equivalent or you are working towards this.

- 33Kv SAP working towards 132Kv SAP authorisations. An increase in range/salary will be applied to specific 132kV authorisations.

- Previous experience working in design or commissioning of power system protection, ideally at a distribution level.

- Knowledge and experience of protection relays and relay panels, CT & VT sizing calculations, protection grading studies and the producing of detailed and accurate AC/DC drawings.

- Protection level 3 & 4 authorisations and working toward level 5.

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. Our investment will see us build the world's largest offshore wind farm and transform the grid to deliver greener electricity to millions.

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 [e-mail] / 01738 344051 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.