Project Development Year in Industry Internship

Turn your studies into experience developing the energy projects of the future

Our 12-month Thermal Project Development Internship gives you hands-on experience supporting projects as they move from an early idea towards development and delivery. SSE Thermal is developing the flexible energy infrastructure needed to support the transition to net zero. You'll join our Development team and work alongside experienced colleagues helping to progress future energy projects.

What is the role?

You'll apply to the Thermal Project Development Internship rather than a specific team. We'll consider your degree, interests, strengths and location preferences when matching successful candidates to available opportunities. Depending on your degree, interests and strengths, you could join one of three areas:

Project Development & Engineering – Glasgow

You'll support the technical development of projects, contributing to analysis and helping teams understand engineering options and project requirements.

We're particularly interested in students studying Engineering, Physics, Chemistry, Geology or another relevant STEM discipline.

Planning & Development – Leeds, Glasgow or Perth

You'll gain practical experience of how planning, land and stakeholder considerations influence the development of major energy projects, supporting activities that help projects progress.

We're particularly interested in students studying Town Planning, Urban Planning, Real Estate, Rural Surveying, Planning and Development Surveying or a closely related discipline.

Business Development & Commercial – Perth

You'll use data, research and analysis to help assess opportunities and support commercial and project development decisions, building your understanding of how major energy projects progress. For this opportunity, a specific degree discipline isn't essential, but you should be comfortable working with numbers and enjoy analytical problem-solving.

What you'll get from the internship

Whichever area you join, you'll have the opportunity to:

• Contribute to meaningful work and real project challenges.
• Learn from experienced professionals across different disciplines.
• Develop your analytical, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Understand how different teams work together to progress major energy projects.
• Build valuable experience and a professional network to support your future career.

What we're looking for

This opportunity is for students looking to undertake a 12-month Year in Industry placement as part of their university studies. You should be in your 1st, 2nd or 3rd year or university, with plans to return to university at the end of the internship. We're looking for students who:

• Are curious about how major energy projects are developed.
• Enjoy analysing information and solving problems.
• Communicate clearly and enjoy working with others.
• Are proactive, adaptable and willing to learn.
• Have a genuine interest in the energy industry and the transition to a lower-carbon energy system.

You don't need to know everything on day one. What matters most is your willingness to learn, contribute and make the most of your year with us.