Title:  Principal Grid Connections Engineer

We bring the energy!

Through purpose and people – not just through the infrastructure we operate, but through the way we show up for each other, our customers and our communities. The future of energy is in our hands. Let’s shape it together.

Go beyond keeping the lights on. Help connect Victoria’s renewable energy future.

As our Principal Grid Connection Engineer, you'll play a key part in shaping the future of energy by supporting the connection of renewable generation, battery storage and emerging technologies to AusNet's network. Using your expertise in power systems, grid connections and network performance, you'll work through complex technical challenges, assess connection opportunities and develop practical solutions that support the safe and reliable integration of new energy projects.

You'll collaborate closely with internal and external stakeholders, helping to drive connection outcomes across a growing pipeline of renewable energy projects while contributing to the evolution of Victoria's energy network.

This role is based in Southbank and has hybrid working arrangements (3 days in the office, 2 days at home)

What you’ll be doing in this role:

• Lead AusNet's end-to-end technical assessment of network connection projects and provide expert engineering leadership on complex connection, network performance, and system security matters.
• Support the development and implementation of AusNet's grid connection strategy, modelling methodologies, technical standards, and compliance approaches to ensure consistent and efficient connection assessments.
• Work collaboratively with AEMO, connection applicants, consultants, OEMs, DNSPs and TNSPs to resolve technical issues, negotiate Generator Performance Standards (GPS), and determine system strength, voltage control, and network performance requirements.
• Lead and oversee the assessment of generator, battery energy storage system (BESS), load, and hybrid facility connections, including review of plant models, reactive power systems, control systems, and protection schemes.
• Undertake and provide technical oversight of advanced power system studies using industry-standard tools such as PSCAD, PSS®E, PowerFactory and other analytical platforms to assess compliance with Chapter 5 of the National Electricity Rules (NER).
• Lead the review, validation, and application of RMS and EMT models for inverter-based resources including solar PV, wind, BESS, hybrid systems and emerging technologies.
• Support and provide technical leadership for advanced studies including system strength assessments, voltage stability studies, harmonics and power quality assessments, harmonic filter design reviews, protection coordination studies, and generator performance assessments.
• Represent AusNet at AEMO forums, industry working groups, regulatory consultations, and technical committees, contributing to industry developments and promoting AusNet's technical leadership.
• Interpret study outcomes, challenge modelling assumptions where required, draw technically sound conclusions, and provide recommendations that support robust and transparent decision-making 

You don’t need to check every box, however we’re looking for a good combination of:

• Degree qualifications in Power Systems Engineering, Electrical Engineering or a Relevant tertiary qualification in Electrical Engineering or other discipline relevant to power systems analysis, electricity transmission, distribution and generation.
• In-depth knowledge of control systems theory and transmission, distribution and generation protection systems.
• Strong experience in leading or facilitating grid connections, and plant commissioning and testing, will be highly regarded.
• Strong understanding and application of National Electricity Rules (NER) relevant to generator and load connections.
• Highly skilled user of PowerFactory, PSCAD and PSS/e for grid connection studies. and modelling, and interpretation of results
• Experience in client facing roles requiring well developed interpersonal, negotiation and problem-solving skills on achieving business objectives and to develop relationships and contribute to the success of multi-disciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication skills, able to convey technical concepts to a non-technical audience.

The AusNet experience is all about…

• Growing your impact: Work on some of Victoria’s most significant renewable energy and grid connection projects while developing your technical expertise and industry profile.
• Building an energy future to be proud of: Help enable new renewable generation, battery storage and emerging technologies that are shaping the future energy system.
• Being part of a team that cares deeply about each other: Join a collaborative and supportive team that values knowledge sharing, professional growth and achieving outcomes together.

We’re committed to building an inclusive culture and a diverse workforce. We believe different perspectives are essential to our success, and we encourage all applicants to apply. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, we're happy to discuss how we can support you.

At AusNet, we bring the energy! Ready to make your impact? Apply now