Economics Engineer

National Energy System Operator; Warwick; Hybrid; GBP 56,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus potential

26 days leave

Pension scheme

Savings plan

Job summary

National Energy System Operator (NESO) is seeking an Economics Analyst to join the Economics Assessment team. You will use pan-European market models like PLEXOS to evaluate the cost and benefits of proposed projects, shaping robust business cases.

This hybrid role offers flexible working, base locations in Wokingham, Warwick or Glasgow, and opportunities to develop modelling tools using Python, SQL and Excel. A strong economics or data science background is essential.

Qualifications

• Degree in economics or a numerate discipline with strong quantitative skills.
• Experience in economics, data science or analysis in energy is preferred.
• Proven ability to use data science packages and Excel for analysis.

Responsibilities

• Perform cost–benefit analyses using pan‑European models to assess projects.
• Develop and refine modelling tools and scripts (e.g., Python) to improve analysis.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders and support network planning.

Skills

Economics

Data science

Data analysis

Education

Degree in economics

STEM subject

Tools

SQL

Python

VBA

Excel

PLEXOS

Job description

About The Role

Great Britain's electricity system is undergoing an ambitious, exciting and vital transformation. Together with industry, we—the Electricity System Operator for Great Britain—are creating a cleaner, greener system, one that protects the planet and serves generations to come.

About The Role

Great Britain's electricity system is undergoing an ambitious, exciting and vital transformation. Together with industry, we—the Electricity System Operator for Great Britain—are creating a cleaner, greener system, one that protects the planet and serves generations to come.

To operate a zero‑carbon network, significant investment in the transmission network is required to transfer renewable electricity to new and changing demand centres. The Economics Assessment team (within Electricity Network Strategy) undertake cost–benefit analysis for a wide range of investment options and commercial solutions to ensure that future developments are robustly underpinned by a justifiable economic needs case. It will look to drive additional benefits for the energy industry by expanding beyond electricity to encompass whole energy system thinking. As part of this we are deploying new energy modelling software and tools. We have exciting opportunities to get actively involved with this work.

This role can be based in Wokingham, Warwick or Glasgow and we continue to offer hybrid working from office and home. We are open to full time and part time applicants, as well as flexible working arrangements.

This is a flow‑through opportunity, and applications will be considered across Levels 6 to 8.

Key Accountabilities

• You will utilise pan‑European market models such as PLEXOS to assess the impact of projects or policies on the overall cost of operating the electricity network. You will seek opportunities to develop our methodology, tools and models to improve the robustness and timely delivery of our analysis. (For example, this could involve writing python scripts to automate modelling processes and engaging with internal and external stakeholders on our approach to CBAs.) You will lead in the scoping and delivery of new analysis and in model development.
• Acting as a key interface with our stakeholders, you will represent the NESO in our cross‑industry work ensuring the robustness of data inputs and presenting the results of your analysis. This includes managing stakeholders and supporting the delivery network plans such as upcoming Centralised Strategic Network Plan (CSNP) along with a range of ad‑hoc presentations / reports to industry stakeholders and the regulator.
• You will document your processes (so that they are repeatable and transparent) and provide oversight, challenge and advice to other team members. In addition, you may represent the NESO on relevant industry panels to ensure best practice is shared across the industry.

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK by the start of employment. Visa sponsorship may not be available for this role and will be considered in line with business requirements.

About You

We’re forging the path, and we know we can’t do it alone. That’s why we need visionary minds like yours to join us on this transformative journey.

What We Do Isn’t Just Important – It’s Essential. That’s Why We Look To Recruit Experts In Their Field. In This Case, We’re Looking For Someone Who Has

• Career experience in economics, data science or analysis. You may also have existing experience within the energy industry, with an understanding of the supply, transportation and use of energy.
• A degree in economics, a STEM subject or other relevant experience in a numerate discipline.
• A logical, creative and practical approach to problem solving and ability to break down complex problems
• Confidence using large bespoke software / a high level of computer literacy (e.g. excellent Excel skills). You should also have experience using data science packages (e.g. SQL, VBA, Python) or developing analysis tools.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to communicate key messages to internal and external stakeholders.

What You’ll Get

A competitive salary of £56,000 - £66,000 dependent on experience and capabilityAs well as your base salary, NESO's core benefits are the essential perks and advantages that form part of your employee package. - You will receive a bonus based on company performance- 26 days annual leave as standard - A competitive contributory pension scheme where we will double match your contribution to a maximum company contribution of 12%. - Annual Enrollment to NESO Savings Plan, when you save between £20- £500 a month from your take‑home pay, we will pay a 50% matching contribution.

Benefits

NESO's flexible benefits programme provides you with more flexibility around your health, lifestyle and protection benefits, here's just a few available:

• Flexible Bank Holidays & Holiday Trading
• Additional Birthday Day Off
• Cycle to Work Scheme, Retail & Gym Discounts
• Private Medical Insurance, Critical Illness Insurance & Personal Accident Insurance

About Us

At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we play a vital role in tackling climate change and securing Great Britain's energy future. We already operate the world's fastest decarbonising electricity system and are working towards our ambition to run it carbon‑free for a short period this year - provided the market supplies electricity exclusively from renewable sources. Alongside this, we provide expert advice to government on how to deliver a clean power system by 2030.

In autumn 2024, the Electricity System Operator (ESO) transitioned to become NESO - an independent, expert public corporation with a whole‑system view across electricity, gas, and hydrogen. NESO operates independently and transparently, always acting in the best interests of all energy users.

Licensed and regulated by Ofgem, we make impartial decisions that balance sustainability, affordability and security. Our organisation is fully independent from government, the regulator and all commercial interests, with a clear focus on system-wide benefit, long term thing and public value.

The time to deliver is now. Join the energy transformation and help shape the future.

Your energy. Our future. Together

National Energy System Operator (NESO) recognises the potential of bright and talented individuals, and we encourage you to join us as Great Britain’s energy system undergoes an ambitious, exciting, and vital transformation. Together with industry, we are creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

More Information

This role closes at 23:59, on the day before date shown above, however we encourage candidates to submit their application as early as possible and not wait until the published closing date as this can vary.

Research shows that some people may hesitate to apply unless they meet every single requirement. At NESO, we believe potential comes in many forms and we're committed to a fair, inclusive recruitment

We're committed to building a workforce that represents the communities we serve, and a working environment in which each individual feels valued, respected, fairly treated, and able to reach their full potential. If this role sparks your interest but you're not sure you tick every box, we still want to hear from you. process where everyone has the opportunity to show their talents. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.