Network Planning Engineer Review

Finding points on the electrical distribution network where new connections can be attached, then checking maximum loads, cable capacities, existing customer data to determine if the new connection is possible and if so, will the network need any cable reinforcements or load transfers. Mostly software based, using excel, PI, PROMIS, Maximo, Poweron and EO.

Learned how to use various softwares for completing daily tasks. Learned to create detailed drawings of proposed changes to the network. Learned how to create proposals for new connections, including cable capacity sizings and finding areas which require reinforcement. Learned about the basic operation of the energy distribution network throughout the UK. Also completed an emergency first aid course.

Enjoy the SSE portion of the programme quite a lot. The team is supportive and gave lots of help for getting started with learning the new software etc. Office is modern with lots of new equipment, which makes working easier. Good facilities in the workplace. The job can become repetitive, however it is still relatively interesting at the moment.

At the beginning, it seemed a bit disorganised, almost as if it had been rushed to put the program together. Had trouble initially acquiring software which was essential for completing the job, which made getting started more difficult. Also, it seemed as though when we stared, that none of the existing team really knew what we were supposed to be doing or what the long term goals of the program were.

I received good support from the team for learning how to use new software, how to perform daily tasks and how to complete new point of connection appraisals. This made learning what to do much simpler and allowed me to start working with more confidence in what I was doing.

The teaching of some subjects has been quite good, however other subjects have been taught poorly at best. If I did not already have a strong knowledge in these areas, I would have struggled a lot (as some of my colleagues did). The course organiser does not reply to emails, and only seems to care about ticking boxes in review meetings, rather than actually helping with any issues.

Other than a few lecture slides regarding thermal expansion in cables and transformer operation, very little of what I have learned is applicable to my job role. Learning basic DC circuitry is irrelevant to the job role, as it is dealing purely with AC transmission and distribution. Many other subjects are also irrelevant to the job, such as forces acting on a beam, or velocity and acceleration calculations. If anything, the time spent at the college is a hindrance, as it uses up time when I could be learning useful skills in the workplace.

There have been a few work social events organised, such as a Christmas dinner and night out, which were great fun and a good opportunity to network with others from the SSE office. Have also organised various social events with other apprentices who started at the same time as myself.

Yes

It seems like a good company to work for, with lots of additional benefits, discounts and car scheme available to employees. There also seems to be good room for progression within the company, and reasonable opportunities to move around and learn new skills. Also, the team in the workplace were very supportive.

Prepare well for the interview and make sure to have good examples of a time when you showed good decision making / leadership skills. Also remember that SSE is very safety orientated, so always try to show that you are too. In my interviews, the interviewers were relaxed and and quite encouraging, so Don't be too nervous beforehand.