At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of hydrogen engineering by developing planning standards and policies.
- Company: Join NESO, a leader in transforming Great Britain's energy system.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, flexible working, and generous leave options.
- Other info: Collaborate with industry leaders and make a real impact on energy policy.
- Why this job: Be part of a vital transformation towards a cleaner, sustainable energy future.
- Qualifications: Chartered Engineer or working towards chartership with gas or hydrogen network experience.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 60000 £ per year.
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.
The methane gas networks have well-established engineering and planning standards, and NESO’s role in planning the methane gas network is firmly established and collaborates very strongly with National Gas Transmission (NGT). The standards and assumptions on which gas network planning is undertaken are similarly well-established and encoded in NGT’s Transmission Planning Code (TPC). However, the equivalent standards have not been fully established for the emerging hydrogen systems. NESO will become the ‘strategic planner’ for hydrogen transportation and storage in 2026, which will require, at least, the development of planning standards equivalent to those used in methane gas transportation.
We are seeking one or more experienced gas engineers to work together, under the leadership of a Network Engineering Manager, and with industry, to develop relevant standards, policies and practices for application in hydrogen system planning, and also to support in the review and development of gas (methane) standards and policies. The role will primarily focus on establishing network planning standards for emerging hydrogen networks, ensuring alignment with relevant regulations, safety requirements, and best practices. We expect the focus to be on above 7 barg hydrogen networks, although knowledge of below 7 barg and downstream gas systems will be advantageous. This is a fantastic opportunity to shape hydrogen engineering policy for all assets required for hydrogen transmission network and storage.
In addition, the role will also take responsibility for ensuring that the network planning standards that apply to gas (methane) networks are understood and applied in NESO, providing robust challenge and review to the standards developed by the wider industry, such as the Transmission Planning Code. The role will collaborate with key external stakeholders, including gas network businesses, the Health and Safety Executive (HSE), the Institute of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM), other relevant industry associations, government departments, and consumers, to shape the future of gas infrastructure. This role can be based from 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.
Key Accountabilities
- Development and documentation of the hydrogen network planning standards that will be applicable to NESO’s hydrogen network planning activities.
- Developing and maintaining relevant engineering policies, technical standards and best practice.
- Assessing whether policies and standards align with safety regulations and industry benchmarks, and ensuring management is alerted to any misalignment or inconsistency.
- Supporting management in the Gas and Whole Energy Network Development (GWEND) department in the development of ways of working, working procedures and project management for your team including risk management and KPI monitoring.
- Working with relevant Strategic Energy Planning (SEP) directorate and wider NESO teams to ensure hydrogen network planning standards reflect various requirements such as security of supply, operability, deliverability.
- Providing support and guidance on gas and hydrogen engineering topics to wider teams in GWEND, SEP, NESO and in the wider industry.
- Maintaining good working relationships with relevant engineers and teams within key stakeholders – in particular National Gas Transmission, licensed gas distribution networks, and relevant consumers.
- Supporting reviews of NGT’s TPC and other relevant standards.
About You
We’re forging the path, and we know we can’t do it alone. We’re looking for great people who has/is:
- Chartered Engineer in a relevant discipline or evidence of working towards chartership.
- Engineering knowledge of >7barg gas or hydrogen networks.
- Experience of developing gas engineering and/or gas network planning standards.
- Curious, ask questions, and drive for depth of understanding.
- Passionate about developing their colleagues, doing the right thing for consumers and society, and accelerating the progress of the energy transition.
- Drives for change whilst working tactfully and sensitively with multiple stakeholders.
- A strong communicator with excellent writing skills.
What You’ll Get
A competitive salary of £55,000 - £60,000 dependent on experience and capability. As 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 thinking 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. We celebrate the difference people can bring into our organisation, and welcome and encourage applicants with diverse experiences and backgrounds.
Planning Standards Engineer (Gas & Hydrogen) - NESO in Warwick employer: National Energy System Operator
At the National Energy System Operator (NESO), we are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive work environment that empowers our employees to contribute to a sustainable energy future. With competitive salaries, generous benefits including a double-matched pension scheme, and flexible working arrangements, we prioritise employee well-being and professional growth. Join us in Wokingham, Warwick, or Glasgow, where you will collaborate with industry leaders to shape the future of hydrogen engineering and make a meaningful impact on Great Britain's energy landscape.
Contact Details:
National Energy System Operator Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Standards Engineer (Gas & Hydrogen) - NESO in Warwick
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the gas and hydrogen sectors on LinkedIn. Join relevant groups, attend webinars, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research NESO’s projects and values, especially around hydrogen standards. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. Practise common interview questions and think of examples that showcase your skills.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for the energy transition! When you get the chance, talk about why you care about sustainable energy and how you can contribute to NESO’s mission. Authentic enthusiasm can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, keep an eye on our careers page for new opportunities that match your skills and interests. We’re excited to see what you bring to the table!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Standards Engineer (Gas & Hydrogen) - NESO in Warwick
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience with gas and hydrogen networks. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves collaborating with various stakeholders, it’s crucial to demonstrate your strong writing skills. Use clear and concise language in your application to reflect your ability to communicate effectively.
Highlight Your Passion for Sustainability:We’re all about creating a cleaner energy future, so let your enthusiasm for sustainability shine through! Share any experiences or projects that showcase your commitment to environmental issues and the energy transition.
Apply Early Through Our Website:Don’t wait until the last minute! We encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible through our website. This way, you’ll have a better chance of standing out before the closing date.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Energy System Operator
✨Know Your Hydrogen Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of hydrogen networks, especially above 7 barg systems. Familiarise yourself with the current standards and regulations in gas engineering, as well as any emerging practices for hydrogen. This will show that you're not just interested in the role but also prepared to contribute to shaping the future of energy.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working with various stakeholders, be ready to discuss your experience in collaborating with different teams. Prepare examples of how you've successfully navigated complex relationships in past projects, particularly in engineering or planning contexts. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and build strong working relationships.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Ability
Expect questions that assess your critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Think of scenarios where you've had to tackle challenges in engineering standards or project management. Be ready to explain your thought process and how you arrived at solutions, especially in situations involving safety regulations or industry benchmarks.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare a few thoughtful questions about NESO's vision for hydrogen network planning and how they see the role evolving. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values. Asking about their approach to collaboration with external stakeholders can also demonstrate your understanding of the role's requirements.
