Principal Engineer Connections, Technical Solutions

Principal Engineer - Connections Technical Solutions

Department:System Design

Division:Onboarding & Connections

Reference number:12947

Engagement type:Permanent

AEMO at the Heart of Energy

AEMO is Australias independent energy system and market operator and system planner. AEMOs purpose is to ensure safe reliable and affordable energy today and enable the energy transition for the benefit of all Australians. Australian governments are now committed to a net zero economy for Australia by 2050 and our vision is to enable this. We have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to co-design the future of our energy systems and our core values revolve around character commitment and connection. Join us as we contribute to this significant transition in the energy sector.

About the role

AEMOs System Design division plays a central role in planning the power system as Australia undergoes rapid transformation. With the shift to renewable generation and widespread electrification the number of new transmission and distribution projects is growing fast.

As Principal Engineer Onboarding & Connections you will provide expert technical regulatory and process guidance across AEMOs connection and reform activities. You will lead work on integrating emerging technologies and new connections supporting major network augmentations developing renewable energy zones streamlining connection processes and implementing new regulatory frameworks that address evolving system needs.

This role requires strong stakeholder leadership to navigate competing interests and achieve alignment across governments generation developers OEMs NSPs and industry bodies such as the CEC. You will design and lead effective consultation and collaboration processes ensuring they are well targeted and support industry-wide outcomes.

You will also coordinate closely with teams across AEMO and external partners to ensure your work informs key initiatives including the Access Standards Review Connections Reform Initiatives and the Engineering Framework and contribute to consistent efficient and futurefocused outcomes.

What you will be doing

• Lead the development and assessment of PSCAD PSSE and other power system models for new technologies collaborating closely with AEMO engineering teams to ensure their effective integration into the existing power system.
• Provide technical leadership on emerging technology integration major plant connections streamlined connection processes and regulatory implementation across complex projects.
• Facilitate consultation and workshops with internal and external experts negotiate technical outcomes with diverse stakeholders and contribute to stakeholder management plans for major connection initiatives.
• Direct and coordinate technical resources including consultants to deliver timely highquality support aligned with project proponent and government timeframes.
• Prepare clear technical and nontechnical communications lead process improvements arising from regulatory or system changes and proactively strengthen AEMOs reputation as a trusted partner across industry and government.

What you will bring to the role

• Engineering stakeholder project management or relevant regulatory/policy qualifications with policy or regulatory experience considered an advantage.
• Demonstrated experience in working on establishment or reform projects that require extensive stakeholder engagement and negotiation as well as NER change management and implementation.
• Proven ability to shape and deliver outcomes across stakeholders with competing interests negotiating aligned solutions and delivering them on time and within budget.
• Experience working with diverse matrixed teams with varying skills and objectives coordinating their contributions to meet time and budget requirements.
• Understanding of the NER the NEM and the Rule change framework along with awareness of the commercial drivers and challenges faced by transmission businesses generation developers and customers

In return some of our benefitsto you

• Flexible working: work from home part timejob share hybrid optionsandadditionalleave options.
• Professional development via projects industry networksjob rotation studyassistanceand more.
• Give back with up to 4 days of volunteering leave per year.
• Reward your hard work with annual performance bonuses (subject to eligibility).
• Embrace a healthier you with our wellness program discounted health insurance gymperksand our comprehensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

About Our Process

At AEMO we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome people of all backgrounds including people withdisabilitiesand neurodivergence and those who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the application or interview process simply let us know by emailing us at