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- Tasks: Support the safe and efficient operation of Northern Ireland's electricity system in a dynamic Control Centre.
- Company: Join SONI, the driving force behind Northern Ireland’s electricity grid and sustainable energy future.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical cover, enhanced holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive culture that values diversity and empowers your growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable energy projects that benefit communities and the environment.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree or HNC with experience in transmission systems and power operations.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 ÂŁ per year.
Role Title: Assistant Grid Control Engineer
Reports to: Control Centre Manager (Control Centre Operations)
Location: Belfast
Who We Are
SONI is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator. We are the people behind Northern Ireland’s electricity grid. We make sure that every home, business, school, hospital, factory and farm has power – when and where they need it. Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast‑moving, collaborative and team‑oriented. Our culture is driven by continual development, knowledge and teamwork. Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuels and transforming the energy system to make decarbonisation a reality – while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply in a way that secures the future for those who follow us.
The Role
The Assistant Grid Control Engineer plays a key role in the secure, safe and efficient operation of the Northern Ireland electricity system. Working within the Control Centre environment, the role supports real‑time system operations, market‑driven scheduling and system security analysis, collaborating closely with internal teams and external stakeholders across the island of Ireland. This position operates within a highly regulated, 24/7 operational setting and requires a strong focus on safety, reliability and compliance while responding effectively to both planned activities and unplanned system events. This role carries out shifted working, more information available on request.
Key Responsibilities
- Instruct the loading of generating plant on the Northern Ireland and Ireland system.
- Develop a secure schedule that minimises deviation from market running.
- Monitor changes in the market and advise being presented to develop a secure schedule that takes into account:
- Consideration of plant margins and generation security, and actions to be taken in the event of a shortfall.
- Consideration of system security under outage or fault conditions.
- Safe operation under planned and emergency working conditions.
- Gas schedules.
- Annual DBC budget.
- All forecasts required for market and internal systems (e.g. demand, renewables).
Critical Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Essential
- Relevant Degree or relevant HNC and relevant experience.
- Detailed knowledge of the Northern Ireland Transmission system.
- Extensive experience of more than one of the following areas:
- Transmission Systems
- Power Stations
- Power Systems Operations
- Generation, transmission system development planning
- Power system (including generators) protection maintenance or commissioning
Desirable
- Experience of loading desk operations.
- Experience of unit commitment software.
- Experience of European Network Codes and European power systems.
The successful candidate should also be able to demonstrate:
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines using analytical skills that are both detailed and commercially oriented.
- Effective decision making and problem solving skills.
- Ability to work on own initiative with minimum supervision.
- A strong team ethic as it is essential to work closely with the System Operations team in a 24/7 environment and to support other SONI/EirGrid departments.
- Ability to multi-task successfully.
- Effective negotiation and conflict resolution skills when required.
- Fully flexible approach to job role and the changing business environment.
- Competency in the role and will be required to undertake continual development in line with changes to European Legislation.
Why join us?
- Play a vital role in shaping sustainable energy projects that benefit communities and the environment.
- Enjoy a competitive salary, private medical cover, and pension matching.
- Enhanced holidays, maternity and paternity leave and wellbeing days.
- Access salary sacrifice schemes (such as cycle to work, EV scheme), free car parking, onsite EV charging and complimentary lunch.
- Access professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
- We offer an inclusive culture that values diversity and empowers you to grow.
Closing date for applications is 05 May 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.
Assistant Grid Control Engineer employer: SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland
Contact Detail:
SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Grid Control Engineer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the energy sector. Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SONI and the role of Assistant Grid Control Engineer. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your skills align with their goals. Practice common interview questions and come up with examples that showcase your experience in power systems operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for renewable energy and sustainability during interviews. Talk about any projects or experiences that highlight your commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This will resonate well with SONI’s mission and demonstrate that you’re a great fit for their team.
✨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 and updates. We’re always looking for talented individuals to join us in transforming Northern Ireland’s energy system!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Grid Control Engineer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Assistant Grid Control Engineer role. Highlight relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially in areas like transmission systems and power operations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should tell us why you're passionate about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. Use specific examples to showcase your skills and experiences that align with our mission at SONI.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written and verbal communication is key for this role, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. This is your chance to demonstrate your attention to detail!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of the Northern Ireland Transmission system and power systems operations. Familiarise yourself with key concepts and recent developments in the energy sector, as this will show your genuine interest and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since the role involves working closely with various teams, be prepared to discuss examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your ability to work under pressure and your commitment to supporting team goals, especially in a 24/7 operational environment.
✨Prepare for Real-World Scenarios
Think about potential challenges you might face in the role, such as managing outages or responding to market changes. Be ready to discuss how you would approach these situations, demonstrating your problem-solving skills and ability to make effective decisions under pressure.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t shy away from asking questions that show your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Inquire about the team's current projects, the technologies they are implementing, or how they measure success in their operations. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.