Senior Engineer- Power System Evolution in Newtownabbey

SONI is Northern Ireland's Transmission System Operator and is responsible for operating the electricity grid that powers homes, businesses and communities across the region. We operate the grid with world-leading levels of renewable generation, playing a vital role in meeting NI target of 80% renewable energy usage by 2030, as set out in the Climate Change (NI) Act 2022. We do this while ensuring a secure and reliable system that means everyone has the power they need, when and where they need it.

Within our Networks & Innovation Directorate, the Future Power Systems function helps plan and prepare the power system for the future. This role sits within the Power System Evolution team, and partners closely with colleagues in EirGrid on a variety of studies to determine how the all-island power system should operate as renewable generation continues to increase. The team are key contributors to SONI's Operational Policy Roadmap. This roadmap lays out a pathway to Northern Ireland supporting up to 95% renewables at any one point in time by 2030. We will achieve this through development of tools, models and operational approaches needed to ensure the system remains secure and resilient as our grid continues to evolve. The team also evaluate the introduction of innovative technologies like Grid Forming and Inertia Services that can further support our renewable ambitions.

We are looking for someone who is passionate about helping to shape the future of Northern Ireland's transmission grid. In this role, you will play an important part in supporting the transition to a secure, reliable and low-carbon energy system. As a Future Power Systems Senior Engineer, reporting to the Power System Evolution Manager, you will analyse and assess the performance of the power system, helping to ensure the grid remains safe, secure and reliable as Northern Ireland moves towards a net-zero future.

Key responsibilities include:

• Technical Analysis: Identifying future power system needs and possible solutions by carrying out power system analysis such as steady state load flow, voltage, short circuit and transient stability. Identifying challenges associated with operating a high-RES power system and investigating and developing solutions. Carrying out power system studies with a particular focus on the value offered in future interconnection; long duration energy storage and offshore projects and how they may enhance future system strength and dynamic stability.
• Modelling: Using power system modelling software such as LSAT (Look-Ahead Security Assessment Tool)/ TSAT (Transient Stability Assessment Tool), PSS/E (Power System Simulator for Engineering), PowerFactory, DSA (Dynamic Security Assessment) tools, or similar. Building and maintaining the power system dynamic model, ensuring the model accurately reflects the transient performance of the transmission system during contingency events.
• Continuous Improvement: Identifying and implementing efficiencies in existing processes and policies. Identifying and implementing efficiencies in our modelling processes, such as using coding to automate modelling inputs.
• Communication & Reporting: As required, support the development of technical reports and statutory publications such as the Ten-Year Transmission Forecast Statement. Writing robust technical reports and communicating these clearly to internal and external stakeholders. Presenting model results both internally and externally.
• Stakeholder Management: Building strong and effective relationships with key stakeholders such as NIE Networks, the Utility Regulator, relevant government departments and developers.
• Team Culture: Mentoring junior team members and contributing to a team culture that is solution focused.

What You'll Need:

• Essential: University degree in engineering, or other relevant equivalent degree, with a minimum of 3 years power system or electricity industry expertise and experience.
• Technical knowledge of power systems, network system planning and transmission equipment.
• Knowledge of power system modelling and analysis techniques such as dynamic, harmonic and EMT power system analysis.
• Experience in power system analysis with power system modelling skills in software such as PSS/E, PowerFactory, DSA tools, Matlab, or similar.
• Understanding of generation, demand and enabling technologies connecting to the power system.
• Demonstrated knowledge of relevant regulations, licence, technical standards, codes and policies relating to transmission system and connections planning.
• Advanced problem solving and analysis skills.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Experience of coaching and mentoring individuals to achieve positive outcomes in project delivery and skills development.
• Advanced level Excel skills for data analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Desirable:

• Proven understanding/good technical knowledge of the Northern Irish power system.
• Python coding development.
• Understanding of National and European policy and operational modelling.
• Knowledge of alternative power system modelling and analysis techniques.
• Proficiency in project management as part of a team.

We welcome applications from individuals who are motivated by the opportunity to solve complex power system challenges and have a meaningful impact on Northern Ireland's energy transition. Closing date for applications is 11th September 2026. SONI reserves the right to extend this deadline where necessary to maximise the applicant pool. Submit your application by uploading your CV with a cover letter (in one document). SONI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to an inclusive workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, and everyone can thrive. As a STEM organisation, we are continuing to strengthen gender diversity across our engineering and technology roles and welcome applications from women who want to build and apply their expertise to Northern Ireland's energy system. We have a duty to prevent illegal working and applicants must demonstrate they have a legal right to work in the UK. SONI is not providing sponsorship for this vacancy.