Enhanced Unit Operator
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Nov 6, 2026. First seen by Alion on Nov 4, 2026.
Base Location: Peterhead Power Station, AB42
Salary: SS08 £57,150 - £68,295 depending on skills and experience + performance-related bonus + shift allowance + skills shortage allowance + a range of benefits to support your finances, wellbeing and family.
Working Pattern: Permanent | Full Time
The role
As an Enhanced Unit Operator, you’ll play a pivotal role in ensuring Peterhead Power Station runs safely and efficiently across all plant configurations. You’ll be accountable for carrying out operational duties such as monitoring plant condition, diagnosing faults and accurately reporting defects across unit and auxiliary plant. You’ll ensure operations remain within permissible limits and comply with the station’s Environmental Permit, while optimising thermal efficiency.
Some of your other main accountabilities will include;
- Maintain accurate station logs and deliver operational reports as required to support effective analysis and meet statutory and company requirements.
- Assist Shift Group Leader in training and mentoring of Unit Operator and Plant Operators on assigned shift.
- Enact the roles of Senior Authorised Person, Authorised Person, Selected Person, Work Controller and Working Party Leader as defined in Thermal Safe System of Work.
- Provide stand in cover for the Shift Group Leader covering all day-to-day aspects of the role including within day supervision of the shift team.
- Perform Emergency Response duties per Bronze Level incident response following SSE and Station procedures.
To be successful in this role, we would love you to have;
- A minimum of an HNC level qualification in an engineering discipline or other technical subject, or have extensive operational experience at a large Thermal Power Station.
- A comprehensive understanding of Safe System of Work and Safety Rules, and the responsibilities of the roles authorised under these rules.
- Knowledge of reporting requirements under Regulations on Energy Market Integrity and Transparency (REMIT).
- A good awareness of Environmental permits and operational limitations specified within.
- Proven ability in effectively supervising and support a team.
- Proven ability to operating all plant, including panel operation, across all operating modes and conditions, along with guiding Unit and Plant Operators during abnormal operating conditions.
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.
SSE Thermal help keep electricity available for millions of people while pioneering low-carbon technologies. From ground-breaking carbon capture and storage projects to plans for what might be the world's first hydrogen-fired power station, we're transforming how flexible power supports a cleaner electricity system.
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 Pamela Hendry on [email protected] 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.