DSO Operational Systems Engineer

LiveHire Limited; New Plymouth; On-site; NZD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Powerco is seeking a DSO Operational Systems Engineer in New Plymouth to join the NOC Network Systems team. You will help develop systems, processes and technology to support a changing electricity network, including DER adoption, SCADA integration and automation.

The role blends technology, engineering and network operations, with opportunities to shape future operational capabilities and collaborate across multiple teams. Applications close soon.

Qualifications

• Experience with SCADA or operational technology.
• Electrical or controls engineering background.
• Understanding of network operations and systems integration.
• Ability to turn business needs into technical solutions.

Responsibilities

• Develop systems and processes for evolving DER/DSO operations.
• Collaborate with NOC and DSO teams to enable automation and control.
• Integrate DER, distributed generation and network flexibility.
• Translate requirements into practical automation logic.
• Document systems, ensure supportability and knowledge sharing.

Skills

SCADA

Operational technology

Electrical engineering

Network operations

Systems integration

Automation and control

DER/DSO awareness

Software code interpretation

C, C++, Python

Automation design & commissioning

Tools

SCADA

RTU

Job description

DSO Operational Systems Engineer

New Plymouth

Permanent - Full-time

Help shape the future of how Powerco operates its network

Powerco is evolving the way we operate and manage our electricity network as distributed energy resources (DER), distributed generation and network flexibility become an increasingly important part of the energy system.

We’re looking for a DSO Operational Systems Engineer to join our NOC Network Systems team and help us turn this change into practical, operational capability.

This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working at the intersection of technology, engineering and network operations and wants to play a key role in shaping how Powerco operates its network into the future.

What you'll be doing

Working closely with our DSO team and Network Operations Centre, you’ll help develop the systems, processes and technology needed to support the changing electricity network.

You’ll be involved in things such as:

• Supporting Powerco’s journey towards a Distribution System Operator (DSO) operating model.
• Supporting the integration and operational management of DER, distributed generation and network flexibility.
• Working with SCADA and other operational systems to deliver new network capabilities.
• Turning business and operational requirements into practical technical solutions.
• Developing and improving processes, standards and ways of working.
• Supporting system integration, testing and commissioning.
• Identifying opportunities to simplify, improve and automate existing processes.
• Working with suppliers, contractors and internal teams to deliver new technology.
• Converting network rules and constraints into automation logic.
• Helping ensure new systems and capabilities are well documented, supportable and ready for operational use.
• Sharing your knowledge and building capability across the wider team.

This isn't just another systems role

The energy industry is changing quickly, and Powerco is preparing for a future where customers, solar, batteries, distributed generation and flexible energy resources will play a much bigger role in how the network operates.

You’ll have the opportunity to help shape that future.

You won’t be tied to one particular technology or solution. Instead, you’ll work across operational systems, SCADA, DER, DSO and network operations, identifying what we need to do differently and helping turn those ideas into solutions that work in the real world.

What we're looking for

We're looking for someone who is technically capable, curious and enjoys solving problems.

You may come from a background in:

• SCADA or operational technology
• Electrical or control systems engineering
• Network operations
• Systems integration
• Automation and control
• Technology or systems engineering
• Electricity distribution or a related industry
• Interpreting, developing or modifying software code.
• Experience with C, C++ and Python.
• Designing, testing and commissioning automation and control solutions.

You don't need to be an expert in every area. More important is your ability to learn, connect the dots and turn complex requirements into practical outcomes.

You'll bring

• Strong technical and analytical skills.
• Experience with operational systems, SCADA or similar technologies.
• An ability to understand both technical and operational requirements.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• The ability to work collaboratively across different teams.
• Good communication and documentation skills.
• A continuous improvement mindset.
• A willingness to challenge the way things are done and look for better ways of working.

Experience with DER, DSO, distributed generation, flexibility services, SCADA/RTU systems or automation would be highly regarded.

Why join us?

This is an opportunity to get in early and help shape an area that will become increasingly important to the electricity industry.

You’ll work alongside people across NOC, DSO, network operations, engineering and technology, giving you exposure to a broad range of challenges and opportunities.

You’ll have the opportunity to:

• Help shape Powerco's future DSO capability.
• Work with emerging energy technologies.
• Influence how operational systems and processes are designed.
• Deliver practical improvements that make a real difference to our people and our network.
• Build expertise across SCADA, DER, flexibility and operational technology.
• Be part of a team focused on making our network safer, smarter and more efficient.

Ready to help shape the future?

If you're someone who enjoys technology, solving problems and finding better ways of doing things - and you'd like to play a role in the future of New Zealand's electricity networks - we'd love to hear from you.

Applications close: 23 October 2026

Our ability to get the best out of people is what sets Powerco apart. We realise that candidates – especially from underrepresented and neurodiverse backgrounds – often won’t apply for roles unless they meet ALL the criteria.We encourage anyone who shares our passion for connecting communities to apply for any role that aligns to your strengths and interests. We will provide a safe space where you can bring your whole self to work and thrive.

If you would benefit from support or adjustments in order to participate equitably in the recruitment process, please phone [phone] or email [e-mail]