Distribution Trainee Engineer Programme

Are you ready to grow your career while helping to shape the future of the UKs energy system? Our three-year Distribution Trainee Engineer Programme combines an industry recognised HNC in Electrical Engineering with practical experience and technical knowledge, giving you the skills, confidence and qualifications to thrive in a fast-growing sector.

On successful completion of the programme, you will move into a key engineering role located in our Distribution Control Centre in Perth. We operate 24/7 365 days a year, ensuring the safe and reliable operation of the entire Distribution system.

If youre motivated, curious and eager to make a meaningful impact, this could be the perfect next step.

What to Expect

- Study Towards a Recognised Qualification - work towards your Higher National Certificate (HNC) in Electrical Engineering, developing strong technical knowledge alongside the leadership skills needed for a future engineering role.

- Practical Experience - learning from both field and control based teams, you will develop technical understanding and appreciation of how we operate the network to provide a safe and resilient electricity supply for our customers.

-Professional Growth & Support - be part of our Engineering Professional Development Forum, giving you access to ongoing learning, peer support and opportunities to celebrate engineering excellence across SSE.

- A Career in Engineering - applying the knowledge and experience gained during the programme, youll move into a role within our Distribution Control Centre, supporting safe, secure and resilient network operations through Outage Planning or System Operations.

What Were Looking For

This programme would suit individuals who are motivated to develop a career in engineering and enjoy solving problems, collaborating with others and continuously learning. Were looking for people who are:

- Organised and dependable, able to balance study with practical learning.

- Adaptable and flexible, comfortable working both independently and as part of a team.

- Resilience, with the ability to remain professional under pressure, respond positively to challenges and work effectively in a fast-paced operational environment.

- Open to travel, including living away from home during college or placement blocks.

Entry Requirements

To start the programme in August 2026, youll need:

- 1 Scottish Higher (grade C or above) in Maths, Engineering Science or Physics OR 1 A level (grade D or above) in Maths or Physics.

- We also welcome applicants with equivalent engineering qualifications.

- Eligibility for UK Security Clearance (SC), which typically includes a minimum of 5 years UK residency. Due to the nature of the clearance process, applicants are generally expected to be aged 18 or over. More details can be found here: United Kingdom Security Vetting: Applicant - GOV.UK

- As this programme is designed to provide training at a specific qualification level, we cannot accept candidates with an HNC or higher in Electrical Engineering. While this programme may not be the right match, you may be eligible for our Higher Apprenticeship in Electrical Power Networks Engineering or other opportunities within SSE.

SSEs 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.

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.

What happens now?

All applications should be made online, and we will be back in touch after the vacancy closing date to let you know next steps.

SSE will make any reasonable adjustments you need to ensure that your application and experience with us is positive. If you would like to discuss any working differently requirements or adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact by email or you are very welcome to request a call if you would prefer to discuss on the phone.

Before commencing employment with SSE, you'll be required to fully complete our pre-employment screening process consisting of a basic criminal records and credit check.