Control Engineer
The advert says the job needs UK security clearance:
“Candidates for this role will be required to obtain vetting to SC level through UK Government.”
SC clearance usually needs five years of living in the UK, and DV clearance usually needs ten. If you have lived here that long, for example on a Student and then a Graduate visa, you may be able to get it. Most people applying from outside the UK cannot, so the highest likelihood we give this job is Unlikely. Ask Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks whether they would sponsor you.
Unlikely
Sponsorship likelihood
The advert asks for security clearance
£57,150 – £68,295 / year
Salary
Within the market range
£58,700
Going rate
Offer is 1.0× the going rate
This role may qualify for a Skilled Worker visa
SOC 2123 is an eligible occupation, but we are only 41% sure that is the right code. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is a licensed sponsor, so if the code fits, the role should qualify. Check the occupation eligibility rules against what the job actually involves.
We pick the code from the advert's text, so it is our best guess, not the employer's. Each code it could be has its own likelihood:
- Unlikely 2123 (Electrical engineers) · 41% match
- Unlikely 3112 (Electrical and electronics technicians) · 22% match
- Unlikely 3113 (Engineering technicians) · 19% match
New graduate or PhD holder? Pick one of the lower rates.
What each route needs for this job
| Occupation code | New entrant 70% of going rate | STEM PhD 80% of going rate | Relevant PhD 90% of going rate | Standard rate 100% of going rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
2123 Electrical engineers Most likely code | £41,100 Clears | £47,000 Clears | £52,900 Clears | £58,700 Clears |
3112 Electrical and electronics technicians Also possible | £33,400 Clears | £33,400 Clears | £37,500 Clears | £41,700 Clears |
3113 Engineering technicians Also possible | £33,400 Clears | £34,000 Clears | £38,300 Clears | £42,500 Clears |
We use the lowest threshold across the plausible codes. Likelihood is Possible at most when the pay clears only a lower rate, or only under a less likely code. A mark is for the top of the advertised pay. How the Home Office picks the code
About the role
Salary: £57,150 - £68,295 + a range of other benefits to support your family, finances and wellbeing.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time - office based in our Portsmouth Control Centre, covering shifts of 0700-1630 and 0800 - 1800 Monday - Friday
The role
SSEN are looking to recruit Trainee Control Engineers in Portsmouth. The role involves supporting the 24/7 operation of Southern Electric Power Distribution's electricity network to ensure the safe, efficient and effective operation of the system.
You will
- Work as part of the Control Team to support others in analysis of the network to identify where interventions are required and support their resolution across the voltage ranges
- Ensure that all SSEN rules and procedures are followed to foster a positive SSEN Safety, Health and Environment (SHE) culture, and identify any opportunities for improvement
- Ensure the safe release of apparatus and plant from service in accordance with operational safety rules and SSEN procedures
- Communicate directly with other members of staff both internal and external to the control room to ensure the safe operation of the distribution network.
- Maintain accurate reporting of all interruptions of supply either planned or un-planned in-line with regulatory requirements
- An understanding of the electricity distribution network combined with a technical knowledge of electricity distribution or similar market sector
- An HNC or similar qualification in electrical engineering or have technical experience within a similar industry
- Excellent communication and decision-making skills.
- The ability to solve complex problems under pressure.
- Be a committed team player with passion to succeed and great track record of delivery
Candidates for this role will be required to obtain vetting to SC level through UK Government. The criteria normally includes 5 years UK residency, further information can be found here: United Kingdom Security Vetting: Applicant - GOV.UK ([www.gov.uk]www.gov.uk)
About SSE
SSE’s purpose is to be restless every day until we make electricity clean, affordable and available for all.
We do this by developing, building, operating and investing in electricity infrastructure and businesses needed in the energy transition. This includes electricity transmission and distribution networks, onshore and offshore wind farms, hydro-electric power and flexible thermal generation. We also provide products and services for businesses and other customers.
Our investment plan will see SSE invest £33bn in critical electricity infrastructure 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 technical specialists keep customers connected to a safe, reliable supply of electricity while investing in and developing the flexible networks needed for our low carbon future.
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 [email protected] / 01738 341814 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?
This description is the source posting as it read when we added it. We are not affiliated with Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, so check their own site for the current details.
Where this offer sits in the market
Electrical engineers (SOC 2123) · UK · ONS ASHE 2025 · basic pay · ~36k in sample- Offer £57,150–68,295
- Middle half £41,392–68,380
- Median £55,432
- Going rate £58,700
- Threshold £41,700
- New entrant £41,100–52,900
The range sits inside the market's middle half (£41,392–68,380), so this is typical pay for the occupation.
Similar sponsored roles
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Browse more sponsored jobs at Scottish and Southern Electricity NetworksAbout sponsorship for this role
Does this job guarantee visa sponsorship?
Not necessarily. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks holds a sponsor licence, but sponsorship for a specific hire is always the employer's decision. Be upfront in your application that you'll require it.
What salary is needed for this role to be eligible?
The offer must clear both the general threshold and the SOC 2123 going rate of £58,700. New-entrant and shortage discounts can lower it.