Associate or Senior Associate - Power Networks Engineer

About Us

Joining our team means becoming part of a global network of nearly 50,000 professionals dedicated to creating a more sustainable world. We operate in the energy, chemicals, and resources industries, facing exciting challenges and opportunities for meaningful impact. Our flexible work culture supports a healthy work-life balance, offering options to tailor when and where you work.

As a professional services company headquartered in Australia, we collaborate closely with clients to navigate the energy transition, delivering integrated solutions from engineering and consultancy to installation and commissioning.

The Role

We are looking for a driven Senior Power System Engineer to join our Power Networks team in Christchurch, New Zealand. This role focuses on supporting grid connection efforts for large-scale renewable energy developments within the National Electricity Market (NEM) and Wholesale Electricity Market (WEM). Under the mentorship of the Power Systems Technical Director, you will undertake system studies, regulatory submissions, model coordination, and commissioning compliance work. Projects span wind, solar, battery energy storage systems (BESS), hybrid renewables, and traditional synchronous generation.

Key Responsibilities

• Guide clients through grid connection processes from initial feasibility assessments to generator registration and commissioning milestones.
• Prepare and manage grid connection enquiries and formal applications including R0 and R1 submissions, along with GPS documentation and compliance reports.
• Coordinate and review power system studies and dynamic grid modeling using tools such as PSCAD, PSS®E, and DIgSILENT PowerFactory.
• Provide support during grid commissioning and GPS compliance testing phases, including hold point testing, R2 model validations, and plant alterations compliant with NER clause 5.3.9 and equivalent ESM Rules for Western Australia.
• Draft technical documents, reports, and communications for regulatory bodies.
• Collaborate with internal teams involved in development, engineering, and delivery to align grid program planning and risk management.
• Engage in consultations and meetings with AEMO, Western Power, VicGrid, various Network Service Providers, clients, and consultancy partners alongside senior engineers.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of the regulatory frameworks and operational requirements related to the NEM and WEM, including NER, ESM Rules and NSP procedures.
• Mentor junior engineers in grid connection processes, modeling techniques, regulatory compliance, and related activities.

Candidate Profile

• Holds a degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems Engineering, or a similar relevant qualification.
• Experience in power system engineering, grid studies, or renewable energy projects within the NEM and/or WEM jurisdictions.
• Possesses foundational knowledge of the National Electricity Rules, ESM Rules, and Network Service Provider grid connection requirements.
• Hands-on exposure to hold point testing and commissioning protocols.
• Proficient in using power system analysis software such as PSCAD, PSS®E, or DIgSILENT PowerFactory.
• Familiar with basic Python scripting to support technical tasks.
• Strong analytical aptitude combined with excellent technical report writing capabilities.
• Clear communication skills paired with a strong enthusiasm for ongoing learning.

What We Provide

• Opportunities to work on sophisticated and high-profile renewable energy grid connection initiatives.
• Mentorship and career development support directly from senior grid engineers and the Technical Director.
• A structured pathway for technical growth, including advanced training and endorsements for professional certifications.
• The chance to deepen expertise in both the National Electricity Market and Wholesale Electricity Market environments.
• Responsibilities to lead or contribute to pivotal projects that underpin the transition toward low-carbon energy systems.
• A flexible working culture focused on supportive leadership and a values-based ethos recognizing senior talent.
• Recognition for individual contributions as well as collaboration across diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.

Additional Information

We are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered. Our culture emphasizes belonging, connection, and innovation, and we actively support career growth and reskilling to meet the evolving demands of low-carbon energy infrastructure.