Primary Network Design Engineer

National Grid; Melbourne; Hybrid; GBP 55,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED) is seeking a Primary Network Design (PND) Engineer to join the team responsible for power system analysis and network design for 132kV, 66kV and 33kV distribution networks. The role supports new connections and reinforcements across NGED’s footprint with a hybrid work model after initial training.

You will apply your knowledge of EHV networks, support connections, and network performance while collaborating with multiple departments to meet ED2/ED3

Qualifications

• Degree in Electrical Power Engineering or related discipline (or equivalent such as HNC/HND with industry experience).
• Comprehensive understanding of EHV and 132kV networks, planning and design.
• Ability to take ownership of competing priorities and deliver high-quality technical solutions on tight timescales.
• Strong communication and influencing skills for stakeholders including senior colleagues, customers and regulators.

Responsibilities

• Assess and design new demand and generation connections.
• Prepare connection offers, budget estimates and feasibility studies.
• Liaise with customers to manage connections and ensure timely delivery.
• Assess 132kV and EHV network compliance and provide engineering recommendations.
• Design network reinforcement schemes and production of capital sanctions.
• Support NGED teams on design issues and G99 compliance.

Skills

Power system analysis

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Engineering judgement

Education

Electrical Power Engineering degree

Tools

PSS/E

IPSA

DIgSILENT PowerFactory

Job description

An opportunity has become available for a Primary Network Design (PND) Engineer, based at our offices at Pegasus Business Park, Castle Donington.

As part of our hybrid working approach this role offers a mix of office and home working. Hybrid working can only be considered once any initial training is complete and subject to business need.

The successful candidate will work within the PND team who are responsible for undertaking power system analysis and the network design associated with both new connections and reinforcement of the 132kV, 66kV and 33kV distribution network throughout National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED).

We are looking for an enthusiastic and motivated individual who can join us in developing our outputs to meet the ED2 & ED3 business plan targets including the need to ensure capacity is available for new connections, technology and changing demand patterns.

*Please note the successful candidate may initially be appointed at a lower salary until all relevant courses and training are complete.

We reserve the right to close the vacancy early should sufficient numbers of suitable applications be received, and we would therefore advise submitting your application as soon as possible.

Main Responsibilities

The PND Engineers in the team are responsible for various aspects of network design including:

• Assessment and design of new demand and generation connections.
• Preparation of connection offers, budget estimates and feasibility studies.
• Liaison with customers and management of customer connections to ensure timely, safe and on budget delivery.
• Assessment of the 132kV and EHV network for compliance with our distribution licence and associated engineering recommendations for new connection enquiries.
• Design of network reinforcement schemes and production of capital sanctions.
• Provision of support to the local network services teams on design issues such as generator & demand connections, PQ issues and asset replacement schemes.
• Liaison with other departments within NGED such as the DSO, Major Projects, Engineering Design, Telecoms, Policy and Consents & Wayleaves.
• Design and support of earthing systems and power quality.
• Design and support the roll out and implementation of Active Network Management on NGED’s network.
• Coordination and review of customer and independent connection provider designs and compliance assessments including G99.
• Collaboration with National Grid transmission owner and operator (NGET and NESO) covering the development of new connections, grid supply points and third-party work assessments.
• Represent the Company on specialist groups or national working groups, as required.

Ideal Candidate

You will hold a degree (or equivalent higher-level qualification such as an HNC/HND with substantial industry experience) in Electrical Power Engineering or a related engineering discipline.

The successful candidate will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of EHV and 132kV electricity networks, including the principles, standards and challenges associated with the planning, design and development of complex distribution systems.

You will be a highly motivated engineer with the ability to take ownership of competing priorities, exercise sound engineering judgement, and deliver high-quality technical solutions within demanding timescales. Strong communication and influencing skills are essential, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly and credibly to a wide range of stakeholders, including senior colleagues, customers, contractors and regulatory bodies.

The role requires an analytical and solutions-focused approach, underpinned by a strong understanding of network performance, system constraints and engineering risk. You will possess excellent digital and technical skills, with experience of using power system analysis and modelling software such as PSS®E, IPSA or DIgSILENT PowerFactory being highly desirable.

Experience within electricity transmission or distribution networks, together with a strong appreciation of industry standards, network investment drivers and the challenges of operating a safe, reliable and efficient power system, would be advantageous.

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About Us

We’re National Grid Electricity Distribution (NGED), the owner and operator behind the electricity distribution systems for the Midlands, the Southwest of England and South Wales. Serving communities of more than 8 million people, our expert teams deliver heat, light and power for homes and businesses, working outdoors with underground cables, overhead lines and substations that operate between 230 and 132,000 volts.

National Grid employs over 29,000 people worldwide. Our vision is to be at the heart of a clean, fair and affordable energy future and we are doing this in a fast-moving industry with an increasing focus on tackling climate change, exploring new energy sources which are renewable, low carbon, and improve efficiency to meet demand.