Power Systems Planning Engineer

Role

Title:

Power Systems Planning Engineer

Reports to:
Head of Networks

Location:
Belfast (Hybrid)

SONI is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator. We are the people behind Northern Ireland’s electricity grid. We make sure that every home, business, school, hospital, factory and farm has power – when and where they need it.

And that’s just the beginning of our story. We have a critical role to play in delivering a cleaner, cheaper, more secure energy future for everyone living in Northern Ireland.

Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast‑moving, collaborative and team‑orientated. Our culture is driven by continual development, knowledge and teamwork.

Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuels and transforming the energy system to make decarbonisation a reality – while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply in a way that secures the future for those who follow us.

The work you will deliver with us here at SONI matters. Join a great and supportive team and be part of the transformation.

As a Power Systems Planning Engineer, you will report to the Head of Networks and carry out technical analysis of how our electricity system is performing and help develop the best solutions for future grid connections and network upgrades. Your work will support Northern Ireland’s long‑term energy needs by ensuring our network is planned in a coordinated, efficient, and cost‑effective way.

You will also play an important role in producing key statutory documents that give customers and electricity users clear, reliable information about our system.

• Identifying future power system needs and possible solutions by carrying out power system analysis such as steady state load flow, voltage, short circuit and transient stability.
• Developing and appraising network reinforcement options across multiple criteria including technical, cost and environment, ultimately recommending the optimal solution.
• Carrying out benefit assessments.
• Assessing the optimal methods for connecting new generation, demand and enabling technologies to the transmission system.
• Writing robust technical reports and governance papers and communicating these clearly to internal and external stakeholders.
• Developing and updating important statutory documents such as the Transmission Forecast Statement and the Transmission Development Plan for Northern Ireland.
• Using power system modelling software such as PSS/E, Power Factory or similar.
• Liaising with customers, working closely with NIE Networks to deliver network reinforcement and customer connection solutions.
• Building strong and effective relationships with key stakeholders such as NIE Networks, the Utility Regulator and relevant government departments.
• Identifying and implementing efficiencies in existing processes and policies.

• University degree in engineering, or another relevant equivalent degree, with a minimum of 2 years relevant postgraduate experience.
• An ambition to develop experience in power systems studies, including supporting the development of a transmission network to deliver net zero emissions.
• Knowledge of power system analysis methods such as steady state load flow, voltage and short circuit analysis.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, capable of working in a fast, collaborative environment.
• Ability to work well within a team with flexibility in approach, including working under own initiative and to tight deadlines.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with an emphasis on high‑quality report writing and the ability to communicate technical matters clearly to technical and non‑technical audiences.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Proven understanding or good technical knowledge of the Northern Irish power system.
• Proficiency in performing power system analysis with tools such as PSSE and Power Factory.
• Experience working in the electricity industry.
• Experience working in a regulated industry.
• Advanced level Excel skills for data analysis.
• Experience in Python coding.

• Play a…