Lead Engineer (System Development)

In this Lead Engineer role, you will shape SPEN’s input to national GB planning processes and drive the development of strategic investment plans. You’ll act as the main conduit for SPEN’s engagement in CSNP and SSEP, collaborating across teams to turn planning outputs into deliverable investments. You’ll influence external regulators and industry groups while embedding safety, quality and environmental excellence. This is a mission-critical position at the heart of Scotland’s energy transition, enabling Net Zero objectives and shaping how resources are allocated for future networks.

• 36 days annual leave
• Pension scheme with company contribution up to 10%
• Equity plans
• Private medical insurance
• Life assurance (4x salary)
• Electric Vehicle schemes

• Develop and implement internal policies to ensure effective engagement with GB planning processes and regulatory/licence requirements
• Collaborate with Network Planning, Strategic Investment, Regulation and Major Projects to convert planning outputs into investment plans
• Act as SPEN’s point of contact for strategic engagement across whole-system planning processes
• Introduce commercial and technical innovation into policies and plans to maximise value while managing risk
• Join industry working groups and joint sector projects
• Prepare, review and deliver industry and licence documents including SSEP, CSNP and Business Plans
• Produce and coordinate detailed engineering proposals for Ofgem with evidence, modelling and rationale
• Ensure proposals meet internal governance standards and maintain regulatory submission documentation
• Coordinate input across the business to meet licence deadlines and regulatory timescales
• Raise awareness of SPEN’s position with industry groups and stakeholders
• Keep safety, quality and environmental excellence at the centre of activities

• Degree with significant experience in transmission network planning, development, operation or regulatory strategy
• Knowledge of NETS SQSS and Grid Code requirements
• Strong understanding of GB network design standards and how the transmission network operates
• Working knowledge of STC processes at the NESO interface
• Expert knowledge of regulatory, technical and commercial frameworks affecting SPEN
• Experience with regulatory submissions and price controls
• Understanding electrical characteristics of power system equipment
• Experience with advanced data processing, evidence-based methods, licences and standards, financial policies
• Excellent written and verbal communication, able to explain complex topics to non-technical audiences
• Experience managing and influencing senior internal and external stakeholders
• Strong planning and organisational skills with adaptability
• Willingness to travel occasionally

• Clear communication
• Stakeholder influence
• Cross-functional collaboration
• NETS SQSS
• Grid Code
• STC processes