This is our own independent research from public sources. The employer hasn't reviewed, paid for or approved it.
Key figures
- Salary for higher and degree apprentices, and trainee engineers
- £24,580
- Source: SSE (opens in a new tab)
- Apprentices and trainees who stay at SSE after finishing their training
- 92%
- Source: SSE (opens in a new tab)
Overview
SSE generates and moves electricity across the UK and Ireland, including a lot of renewable power. It runs three kinds of early careers programme, depending on your qualifications.
The programmes
| Programme | Length | Pay | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-level apprenticeship | Usually 3–4 years | £14,894 | People without relevant qualifications |
| Higher or degree apprenticeship | Usually 3–4 years | £24,580 | People with Highers, A levels or equivalent |
| Trainee engineer | 3 years | £24,580 | People with maths and a science, or an HNC |
No grades? You can still apply
SSE says most of its apprenticeships are strengths-based, which means you’re assessed on your strengths and qualities rather than your grades. The only rule everyone has to meet is being 16 or over when the programme starts, and there’s no upper age limit.
How it works
You’re based at a local site and split your time between work and college, with an induction in Scotland or the south of England. Applying has four stages: an online application, an online test, a video interview and a final assessment. SSE says 92% of its apprentices and trainees stay on after finishing.
What they do
SSE generates and distributes electricity, including renewable energy such as wind power. Its apprentices and trainees work across its businesses, based at a local site and splitting their time between work and college, with inductions in Scotland or the south of England.
Apprenticeships they offer
-
Entry-level apprenticeships
Engineering, technical and craft roles
For people without relevant qualifications. Most of SSE's apprenticeships are strengths-based, so you're assessed on your strengths rather than grades. SSE doesn't state the level on its overview pages.
-
Higher and degree apprenticeships
Engineering and technical roles
For people with Highers, A levels or equivalent. You earn while studying for an HNC, HND or degree at university.
-
Trainee engineer programmes
Engineering
Need maths and a science (preferably physics) at a set grade, or an engineering qualification at HNC level or above.
Career areas
Entry requirements
- Entry-level apprenticeships
- No set qualifications. Most of SSE's apprenticeships are strengths-based. From SSE's early careers FAQs.
- Higher and degree apprenticeships
- Highers, A levels or equivalent. From SSE's apprenticeship pages.
- Trainee engineers
- Maths and a science, preferably physics, at a set grade, or an engineering qualification at HNC level or above. From SSE's early careers FAQs.
Who can apply
- You need to be 16 or over when the programme starts. There's no upper age limit.
- A driving licence helps but isn't essential.
Our tips for SSE
- Don't have the grades? Most of SSE's entry-level apprenticeships are strengths-based, so focus your application on what you're good at and why the work interests you.
- There are four stages: an online application, an online test, a video interview and a final assessment. Prepare for each one.
- Check which SSE business a role is in. Pay after qualifying varies between them, according to SSE.
Summary
- SSE runs entry-level apprenticeships, higher and degree apprenticeships, and trainee engineer programmes.
- Entry-level apprentices earn £14,894; higher and degree apprentices and trainee engineers earn £24,580.
- Most entry-level roles don't need any qualifications, because SSE assesses your strengths.
- 92% of SSE apprentices and trainees stay with the company after finishing.
Questions about SSE apprenticeships
How much do SSE apprentices get paid?
Entry-level apprentices earn £14,894, and higher and degree apprentices and trainee engineers earn £24,580. Compare that with the legal minimum in our apprentice pay guide.
Do you need qualifications for an SSE apprenticeship?
Not for most entry-level roles. SSE says most of its apprenticeships are strengths-based, so you don't need any qualifications to apply. Higher and degree apprenticeships ask for Highers, A levels or equivalent.
How long is an SSE apprenticeship?
Most take three to four years, depending on the business area and role. Trainee engineering programmes last three years.
Do SSE apprentices get a job at the end?
SSE says 92% of its apprentices and trainees stay with the company after finishing their training.
Sources and review
Last reviewed . Details can change after this date, so check the official source before you rely on them.