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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead engineering projects to ensure reliable electricity supply and innovate for a sustainable future.
- Company: SONI, a key player in Northern Ireland's energy sector with a focus on innovation.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team making a real impact on the energy landscape of Northern Ireland.
- Qualifications: Engineering degree and 4+ years in power system operations required.
- Other info: Fixed-term contract with potential for long-term career development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
Role Title
Role Title: Senior Engineer Fixed Term Contract (Operations)
Reports to: Head of System Operations
Location: Belfast (Hybrid)
Duration: 30 Month Fixed Term Contract
Overview
SONI, as Transmission System Operator (TSO), is responsible for the safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity now and in the future. We support competition in energy, promote economic growth, facilitate renewable energy and provide essential services. The transmission grid connects generation to demand and powers the distribution network that supplies households and businesses across the Island. We operate the Single Electricity Market (SEM) and work with EirGrid & National Energy System Operator to transition to a low‑carbon, technology-enabled future.
The Team
The Operations Directorate is central to delivering the operation, development and enhancement of the power system and the wholesale electricity market. SONI Operations is responsible for the sustainable implementation of transmission system and market development to meet future needs. Roles range from system analysis to developing technical policies, procedures and specifications, including areas such as Control Centre readiness, Grid and Network Code management, technical audits and compliance. These roles are initially fixed‑term to 2028, with a view to an enduring role.
System Operations Function
Executes the core activity of SONI as the TSO for Northern Ireland. Its primary function is to keep the lights on through planning and engineering analysis (e.g., loadflow studies) in advance of and during real‑time operation. The team develops, tests and incorporates operational systems, tools, system services, standards and operational policies required to operate the power system and to integrate new technologies in a coordinated and secure manner. It liaises with stakeholders to manage planned and unplanned outages, voltage control, generator testing, scheduling and dispatch, risk management and alarms/constraints to maintain operational security standards. It facilitates post‑event reporting and process audits to demonstrate regulatory compliance. The team also develops strategies and frameworks to ensure resilience, business continuity and emergency response plans are fit for purpose to guarantee security of supply to all end users.
Markets, System Support and Analysis Function
Facilitates the end‑to‑end operational life cycle of grid connections—from commissioning, testing and registration, through performance monitoring and data feed analysis to decommissioning—while managing tariffs, imperfections and derogations. The team manages Grid Code and Network Codes, ensures Grid Code compliance for all new connections and for validating plant seeking to provide system services. It conducts testing in accordance with the Operational Notification process, analyses daily performance of wind farms, solar farms, DSUs, batteries and conventional units to address issues affecting system operation, and oversees signalling, trips, frequency response and provision of ancillary services. The team aggregates, validates and publishes market data related to participant availability, dispatch instructions and meter data, providing quality control. In certain scenarios, it considers unit capability against Grid/Network Codes and may propose temporary derogations with regulatory authority agreement. It also performs techno‑economic modelling to evaluate costs of operating the power system for revenue recovery. Tariffs and use‑of‑system charges are translated after regulatory consultation, and any dispatch imbalances/constraints are analysed and reported against budgeted costs.
About You
Successful candidates will have the following:
- Engineering degree or equivalent, with a minimum of 4 years post‑qualification experience in power system operations.
- Ability to work collaboratively with customers and with internal and external stakeholders.
- Ability to guide, persuade and influence others through developed communication and diplomacy.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team while also defining and guiding own work under minimal supervision.
- Excellent organisational skills and a strong track record of delivery.
- Ability to develop and progress innovative proposals and solutions.
- Good oral and written communication skills with the ability to convey technical concepts to a non‑technical audience.
- Strong work ethic, excellent organisation skills and attention to detail.
- Demonstrated flexible working approach with ability to prioritise a wide range of demands while maintaining professionalism.
- Comfortable with large data sets; able to analyse data and draw conclusions.
Why join us?
- Play a vital role in shaping sustainable energy projects that benefit communities and the environment.
- Competitive salary, performance‑related bonus, private medical cover, and pension matching.
- Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options (3 days office / 2 days home).
- Enhanced holidays, maternity and paternity leave and wellbeing days.
- Salary sacrifice schemes (cycle to work, EV scheme), free car parking, onsite EV charging and complimentary lunch.
- Professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
- Inclusive culture that values diversity, supports flexible working and empowers growth. We welcome discussions about flexible work arrangements.
If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the energy sector, we would love to hear from you. Join us in shaping the future of SONI and delivering a cleaner and more secure energy future for everyone living in Northern Ireland.
Closing date for applications is 12 noon on 04 February 2026. SONI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer and values diversity. We are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive, and we particularly encourage women to apply as they are currently underrepresented in our organisation.
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.
Skills: Senior Engineer System Operation Markets
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Senior Engineer - Fixed Term Contract (Operations) 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 Senior Engineer - Fixed Term Contract (Operations)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at SONI on LinkedIn or through industry events. A friendly chat can give us insights into the company culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of power systems. We want to show that we’re not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the role and the industry.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice common interview questions with a friend or in front of a mirror. We need to articulate our experience clearly and confidently, especially when discussing how we can contribute to SONI’s mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can keep us fresh in their minds and shows our enthusiasm for the position. Plus, it’s a great chance to reiterate why we’re the perfect fit!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Engineer - Fixed Term Contract (Operations)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Senior Engineer role. Highlight your engineering degree and relevant experience in power system operations. We want to see how your skills match what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about working with SONI and how you can contribute to our mission. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills: Since collaboration is key in our operations, make sure to include examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. We want to know how you guide and influence others while achieving common goals.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team at SONI!
How to prepare for a job interview at SONI - System Operator for Northern Ireland
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge, especially in power system operations. Be ready to discuss your past experiences and how they relate to the role. Think about specific projects you've worked on that demonstrate your skills in loadflow studies or grid management.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
SONI values collaboration, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked with both internal teams and external stakeholders. Highlight your communication skills and any instances where you’ve had to guide or influence others to achieve a common goal.
✨Be Data Savvy
Since the role involves handling large data sets, come equipped with examples of how you've analysed data to draw conclusions. Discuss any tools or methodologies you’ve used in the past to manage and interpret data effectively.
✨Stay Organised and Positive
Demonstrate your organisational skills by discussing how you prioritise tasks and manage multiple demands. Share strategies you use to maintain a positive focus, even when under pressure, as this will resonate well with SONI's work ethic.
