Network Planning Manager

Davidson; City of Melbourne; On-site; AUD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure firm is seeking an experienced Network Planning Manager to join a significant energy project in Melbourne. You will be responsible for planning future power systems, managing complex technical issues, and integrating renewable energy sources. The ideal candidate will have a relevant degree, extensive experience in transmission systems, and strong communication skills. This role offers a chance to contribute significantly to Australia’s clean energy future, working in a dynamic and innovative environment.

Qualifications

• Significant experience in electricity transmission systems and planning.
• Extensive experience and knowledge of regulatory standards.
• Proven ability in change management and stakeholder engagement.
• Experience with legislation, standards, and QA systems guiding system planning.
• Knowledge of national and international planning standards and practices in electrical networks.
• Experience in change management and engaging with stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Plan future infrastructure across the NEM for reliable power systems.
• Lead the development of innovative solutions in network performance.
• Manage complex technical challenges and coordinate network planning.
• Interpret simulation outcomes, draw conclusions, and provide robust recommendations on network adequacy and investment options.
• Support network connections, coordinating with regulatory entities and stakeholders.
• Manage an active pipeline of transmission opportunities within Iberdrola Australia and with external partners.
• Meet with planning and regulatory bodies to obtain and maintain support for projects.
• Provide technical leadership in transmission planning activities for smooth integration of complex infrastructure.
• Develop tools, processes, and documentation to support network limit equations for AEMO.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders including AEMO, System Management, and customers.

Skills

Power Systems Engineering

Communication skills

Regulatory knowledge

Risk management

Analytical skills

Education

Degree in Electrical Engineering

Postgraduate qualifications in related discipline

Knowledge of market modelling & simulation (desirable)

Job description

About the Company

Davidson is proudly partnering with Iberdrola for the VNI West Project, a landmark energy infrastructure development recently awarded and now entering delivery phase. Iberdrola is a global leader in renewable energy generation and transmission, with an extensive track record across major Australian and international projects. With a national network of offices and developments, this project offers an opportunity to contribute to a transformative initiative supporting Australia's clean energy future.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Network Planning Manager to join Iberdrola and the VNI West Project team. Based in the Melbourne CBD, reporting to the Readiness Lead, this role is responsible for shaping the future of high voltage transmission system developments by leading cutting‑edge power systems analysis and formulating strategic recommendations to optimize network performance. You will spearhead the development of innovative solutions, manage complex technical challenges, and lead the coordination of joint network planning to make a significant impact in a dynamic field.

This role will also lead the strategic planning and facilitation of large transmission customer connections, including the integration of large renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, as well as battery storage systems into Iberdrola's assets. This position requires experience in the transmission networks market in Australia, bringing knowledge of commercial, technical, regulatory, land, and environmental areas.

Responsibilities

• Plan future infrastructure across the NEM to ensure a secure and reliable power system with significant renewable and distributed energy resources.
• Assess future requirements for system strength, inertia, frequency control, and other essential needs.
• Deliver high‑quality network analysis, including peer review and technical support.
• Interpret and justify simulation outcomes, draw conclusions, and provide robust recommendations on network adequacy and investment options.
• Support network connections, coordinating with regulatory entities and other stakeholders.
• Manage an active pipeline of transmission opportunities within Iberdrola Australia and with external partners and stakeholders.
• Meet with planning and regulatory bodies to obtain and maintain support for projects.
• Provide technical leadership in transmission planning activities, ensuring the smooth integration of complex transmission infrastructure, optimizing system performance, reliability, and meeting regulatory requirements.
• Develop tools, processes, and documentation to support network limit equations for AEMO.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including AEMO, System Management, and customers.

About You

• Relevant tertiary qualifications at degree level (ideally in Electrical Engineering with focus on Power Systems Engineering) or equivalent relevant experience and experience in the electricity industry, with postgraduate qualifications in an appropriate discipline and knowledge in market modelling and simulation being desirable.
• Extensive experience in the analysis and development of electricity transmission systems.
• Strong communication skills to engage effectively with customers, suppliers, contractors, technical experts, and senior management.
• Substantial experience in the legislation and technical standards guiding system planning and working in accordance with a Quality Assurance System.
• Extensive knowledge of national and international planning standards and practices, electrical networks engineering and operations, risk management (qualitative and quantitative) and quality assurance principles.
• Well‑developed people and service management skills, excellent written communications skills for persuasive reports and submissions, analytical, conceptual and problem‑solving skills and proven experience in change management.

Benefits

This is a genuine career defining career opportunity to join an employer of choice and contribute to Australia's clean energy future.

Please apply with current resume in Microsoft Word format only (.doc or .docx). If you would like to have a confidential discussion, please contact Donna Ison on [phone], quoting reference JN –012026-42195. Want to know more about Davidson? Visit us at www.davidsonwp.com