Network Controller (D)

AusNet Services Ltd; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AusNet Services Ltd in Melbourne CBD is seeking a Network Controller (Distribution) to lead real-time network operations, coordinate critical switching and manage fault response to keep Victoria's electricity network reliable.

You will monitor performance, interpret protection schemes, issue permits, and work with Control Room teams, engineers and field crews to ensure safe, continuous power delivery and rapid restoration during incidents.

Qualifications

• Experience as a Network Controller within an electricity distribution network.
• Strong understanding of power system operations and protection schemes.
• Familiarity with electrical safety codes and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Safely perform and manage network switching for planned and unplanned events across the distribution network.
• Monitor, control and optimise network performance to maintain security, reliability and quality of supply.
• Coordinate safe access to the network, including issuing permits and authorities.
• Work with Control Room teams, Engineers and Field Crews to ensure seamless network operations.
• Respond to emergency situations and minimise customer impacts during network incidents.

Skills

Network operations

SCADA

DMS/OMS

Power system operations

Protection schemes

Decision making under pressure

Communication skills

Safety awareness

Education

Advanced Diploma of ESI – Power Systems

Tools

SCADA

DMS/OMS

Job description

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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.

Play a mission-critical role in keeping Victoria connected, powered and moving. As part of the team responsible for maintaining the reliability of Victoria's electricity network, you'll be at the forefront of managing network operations, restoring power when it matters most, and enabling the transition to a cleaner energy future.

As a Network Controller (Distribution), you'll lead real-time network operations, coordinate critical switching activities, manage fault response and restoration, and ensure the safe and efficient delivery of work across AusNet's distribution network.

This role is based in Melbourne CBD and operates on a 24/7 shift roster within our Network Operations & Delivery team.

What you’ll be doing in this role:

• Safely perform and manage network switching for planned and unplanned events across the distribution network


• Monitor, control and optimise network performance to maintain security, reliability and quality of supply


• Manage unplanned incidences according to procedures including protection target interpretation to ensure correct supply


• Coordinate safe access to the network, including the issuing of permits and authorities


• Work closely with Control Room teams, Engineers and Field Crews to ensure seamless network operations


• Respond to emergency situations and minimise customer impacts during network incidents


• Assess operational risks and understand the broader network impacts of decisions


• Monitor and interpret non-routine operating conditions and permissible variations to manage network demand and quality of supply

What you’ll bring:

We're looking for an experienced Network Controller who thrives in high-responsibility environments and is passionate about operational excellence.

• Proven experience as a Network Controller within an electricity distribution network


• Strong understanding of power system operations, protection schemes and AC circuit theory


• Detailed knowledge of the Code of Practice on Electrical Safety in the VESI (Blue/Green Book), Supplementary Instructions, Operating principles, procedures and practices


• Ability to make quality decisions under pressure


• Superior attention to detail while undertaking multiple tasks in unison


• Exceptional attention to detail and strong communication skills


• Experience using operational technology platforms such as SCADA and DMS/OMS


• A growth mindset and willingness to embrace new technologies and ways of working


• Advanced Diploma of ESI – Power Systems (or equivalent) is highly regarded

Why join us?

Every switch you make, every decision you take and every outage you restore helps power homes, businesses and communities across Victoria. This is an opportunity to take on a role with real impact, where no two days are the same and your expertise helps shape the future of energy.

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.