Project Manager - Networks

Reports to: Head of Networks

Location: Belfast (Hybrid 3 days in the office, 2 days remote)

About Us

SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) is Northern Ireland's Transmission System Operator (TSO). We manage the electricity grid to ensure that power can flow from where it is generated to where it is needed. We are now transforming the power system for future generations. Be part of the change! Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast-moving, collaborative and team orientated. Our culture is driven by performance, knowledge and continual development. Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland's reliance on fossil fuels and making decarbonisation a reality while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply in a way that secures the future for those who follow us. Our future has never looked more exciting. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of it. The world is ready for change. If you are too, join us.

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated individual who is keen to play a key role in shaping how the transmission grid in Northern Ireland will evolve to support the transformation of the power system and enable the transition to a low carbon energy future in Northern Ireland. You will play a key role within the Networks team. Working collaboratively with a team of expert power system planning engineers, project managers and commercial analysts, you will deliver innovative solutions to reinforce the transmission system and connect new generation and demand customers. The role will involve a combination of office-based working and site visits to both existing and new substations and transmission circuit sites.

Key Responsibilities

• Responsible for managing major transmission grid infrastructure projects through the public planning process to achieve planning consent. Projects include both the redevelopment of existing high voltage assets (substations and overhead lines) and the development of new high voltage assets.
• Working alongside the landowner engagement team to achieve all relevant consents for existing and new electrical infrastructure.
• Taking ownership of project delivery from pre-capital approval through to energisation and completion.
• Assist in determining project objectives, project charter and scope.
• Producing high quality internal written reports, papers, and presentations to strict deadlines to achieve internal project approvals.
• Coordinating a wide range of activities and inputs from other professionals and external consultants including technical and engineering, environmental management, communications, public and stakeholder relations, vendor management, finance and procurement.
• Working with other members of the team and departments across SONI, to ensure project controls are in order, including managing budgets, schedule, quality, risk, and activity monitoring and providing regular up-to-date and accurate reports on projects.
• Identifying risks and issues arising on projects and escalating as necessary to senior members of the team, assisting in the development of mitigation and solutions.
• Managing internal and external stakeholder interfaces including progress meetings, reporting, relationship management, coordination, and general communication.

What You'll Need

Joining SONI as a Project Manager, you'll need:

• Essential: Engineering degree; or equivalent qualification.
• Minimum of 2 years experience analysing and managing infrastructure projects.
• Effective communication skills with an emphasis on high quality report writing and an ability to convey technical concepts to a non-technical audience.
• Highly organised with the ability to work on initiative and coordinate the activity of others.
• Full, clean driving licence with access to a car.
• Skilled in building and maintaining strong relationships with customers and stakeholders with the ability to communicate effectively.
• Demonstrable project management experience and working to tight deadlines.
• Excellent analysis, judgement and problem-solving skills along with an ability to make decisions promptly and effectively.
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances.
• Demonstrated flexible working approach with the ability to manage and deliver on a range of projects and activities.
• Strong ability to guide, persuade and influence others.
• Experience in introducing innovative solutions to drive successful outcomes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong IT skills including experience with Microsoft Office packages.

• Desirable: Postgraduate qualification in electrical, mechanical, or civil engineering.
• Formal PMP (or equivalent qualification) or evidence of working towards certification.
• Environmental planning experience along with experience of consulting on engineering practice or managing the work of consultants on behalf of the client, ideally within energy/utility or a similar regulated environment.
• A working knowledge of project costing, project budget management and Construction Design Management (CDM) regulations.
• Experience of working within a similar regulated utility environment.
• Understanding of Transmission System Operator business activities.
• Understanding of generation, demand and enabling technologies connecting to the power system.
• Broad understanding of the technical and commercial aspects of the power industry.

Applicants should note that based on the response, SONI may increase the shortlisting criteria.

What You Will Get

This is an opportunity to lead and contribute to the advancement of a critical component of the energy infrastructure. The rewards package includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, eligibility for an annual performance related payment, private medical provision, competitive pension with employer matching arrangements, a variety of salary sacrifice schemes (e.g. pension, cycle to work and electric vehicle leasing) together with hybrid working arrangements (3 days office: 2 days working at home), flexible start and finish times, competitive holidays and complimentary car parking with electric charging point on site. If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the electricity sector, we invite you to apply. Submit your application by uploading your CV with a cover letter (in one document). Closing date for applications is 9th June 2025.

SONI is an equal opportunities employer. SONI is not providing sponsorship for this role.