Secondary Automation Engineer

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Secondary Automation Engineer within the Secondary System Models and Data team in the Distribution System Operator (DSO). The successful candidate can be based from any of our sites across the East Midlands, West Midlands, the South West or South Wales.

The Secondary System Models and Data team plays a critical role in enabling the transition to a smarter, more flexible electricity network. We are responsible for developing and maintaining National Grid Electricity Distribution's (NGED) power system models and analysis tools covering the 11kV and Low Voltage network. Our work supports strategic network planning, operational decision-making, innovation and regulatory compliance through the application of advanced modelling, data analysis and software development techniques.

This role will report to the Secondary System Models Manager and the successful candidate will join a small but highly technical team of Engineers and Analysts working across all four NGED licence areas. You will design, build and maintain automation solutions that enhance the accuracy, efficiency, and scalability of NGED’s power system modelling and analytical workflows. This is an excellent opportunity to work at the forefront of distribution system operation, helping to shape the future of the electricity network while developing expertise in power systems, data analytics and engineering software solutions.

As part of our hybrid working approach, this role offers a mix of office and home working. Hybrid working can only be considered once your initial training is complete and subject to business needs

The successful candidate will have a degree in either a STEM or IT (e.g. programming or computer science) discipline.

Evidence of your qualification certificates will be required prior to appointment.

You may initially be appointed on a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are complete.

• Develop, maintain and continuously improve automated processes and workflows that support power system model build, data management and analytical outputs, ensuring delivery of high-quality, reliable network models.
• Enhance power system analysis capabilities through the development of tools, integrations and automation solutions, enabling faster delivery of network insights, scenario modelling, forecasting, and contingency analysis assessments to support informed decision-making.
• Drive improvements in data quality, consistency and interoperability by implementing automated validation and transformation processes, whilst integrating modelling platforms with business systems.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams across engineering, IT&D and Geospatial, whilst working with data owners and industry leading software vendors to improve modelling workflows, support digitalisation initiatives and deliver innovative business solutions.
• Support the maintenance and development of NGED's secondary network modelling capability, including master model creation, integration with primary network models, and the delivery of outputs to internal and external stakeholders.
• Contribute to regulatory, stakeholder and industry-led initiatives including network reform and data exchange requirements, championing the adoption of CIM standards.
• Support Secondary Modelling Engineers through the delivery of training, workshops and technical guidance relating to power system modelling and analysis.

The ability to present information in a clear and reasoned way, together with an open yet analytical approach to problem solving, and good computer skills are essential to the role. The successful candidate will embrace an automate-first mindset, seeking opportunities to improve efficiency and deliver lasting business value.

Experience in Python and SQL for the development of data-driven solutions, process automation, and data integration is essential. Applicants should have practical experience using Python libraries such as Pandas and Num Py for the cleansing, transformation, validation, and analysis of large and complex datasets.

Experience developing and supporting robust ETL pipelines for the extraction, transformation, and loading of data from disparate systems is advantageous. Experience working with geospatial and network datasets, alongside the use of FME for spatial data transformation, integration, and automation, would be desirable.

Experience with power system software including PSS Sincal, DINIS, PSSE, IPSA or Power Factory would be beneficial.

You must be reliable, well organised and be able to work effectively as part of a small team and geographically dispersed team. Excellent IT, numeracy and literacy skills are essential. Experience with NGED internal systems e.g. Electric Office, EMU, Power On, and CROWN is desirable, although training will be given on the applications used.

You will engage with internal stakeholders on a regular basis, so strong communication skills are crucial. You will…