Data Scientist

PowerNet; Southland; Hybrid; NZD 90,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading electricity network management company in Southland is seeking a Data Scientist to transform complex data into actionable insights. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic background in Data Science and technical skills in Python, R, SQL, and Power BI. This role offers competitive remuneration, 5 weeks of annual leave, and various benefits. Join us to shape smarter energy solutions for communities.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration

5 Weeks annual leave

Fully subsidised health insurance

Comprehensive health & wellbeing program

Inclusive work environment

9-day fortnight

Relocation benefits

Qualifications

• Strong academic foundation necessary.
• Experience in the electricity industry is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Collate and cleanse data for analysis.
• Apply statistical techniques to uncover patterns.
• Build forecasting models for electrical demand.
• Develop and present findings using Power BI.
• Mentor team members on data analytics best practices.
• Create tools for repeatable analysis.
• Engage with stakeholders throughout the process.

Skills

Python

R

SQL

Power BI

Statistical techniques

Machine learning

Education

Tertiary qualification in Data Science, Applied Statistics, Mathematics, or Computer Science

Job description

Overview

PowerNet is a leading electricity network management company serving communities across Southland, Otago, and beyond. We’re committed to innovation, sustainability, and empowering our people to make data-driven decisions that shape the future of energy distribution.

Role

We’re seeking a talented and forward-thinking Data Scientist to join our team. Ideally based in Invercargill—where lifestyle meets opportunity—you’ll play a pivotal role in transforming complex data into actionable insights. For the right candidate, we’re open to the role being based in one of our other depot locations or remote, flexible or hybrid work arrangements. In these instances, some travel to Invercargill would be required.

Role Purpose

As Our Data Scientist, You’ll Be Responsible For

• Collating, cleansing, and transforming data from internal and external sources into formats suitable for analysis
• Applying statistical and computational techniques to uncover patterns, relationships, and key factors influencing energy usage, customer behaviour, and technology uptake
• Building forecasting models to project future electrical demand scenarios and other key parameters
• Developing and presenting findings, reports, and visual data summaries using tools such as Power BI
• Mentoring team members on best practices in data analytics and visualisation
• Creating tools and documentation to enable repeatable, scalable analysis for technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Engaging regularly with stakeholders to ensure alignment throughout the analysis, solution development, and decision-making process

Qualifications

We’re looking for someone with a strong academic foundation, ideally holding a tertiary qualification in Data Science, Applied Statistics, Mathematics, or Computer Science. Experience in the electricity industry would be an advantage—but is not essential.

About You

You’re a data-driven thinker with a knack for turning complexity into clarity. You bring strong technical skills in Python, R, SQL, and Power BI, along with experience applying statistical and machine learning techniques to real-world challenges. You’re comfortable working with large, messy datasets and know how to extract meaningful insights that support strategic decisions.

Beyond the technical, you’re a natural communicator—able to engage with stakeholders, share knowledge across teams, and present findings in a way that’s accessible and impactful. You’re organised, curious, and always looking for ways to improve how data is used across the business.

Why Join PowerNet

At PowerNet, we foster a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive workplace where your growth and contributions matter. Join us and you’ll get:

• Competitive remuneration
• 5 Weeks of annual leave each year
• Fully subsidised Southern Cross health insurance and Death & Disability insurance
• A comprehensive health & wellbeing program
• A supportive and inclusive work environment with professional development opportunities
• A 9-day fortnight option (enjoy a three-day weekend every two weeks)
• Relocation benefits

Be part of a team where your expertise in data science helps shape smarter energy solutions for our communities.

Submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.

Applications close on Sunday 5 October 2025.