At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Northern Ireland's electricity network and support the transition to a low-carbon energy future.
- Company: SONI, the Transmission System Operator for Northern Ireland, committed to a cleaner energy future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, enhanced holidays, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive culture valuing diversity and flexible working arrangements.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team making a real impact on sustainable energy projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Electrical or Electronic Engineering; relevant experience in power systems.
The predicted salary is between 37800 - 46200 £ per year.
SONI is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator. We are the people behind Northern Ireland’s electricity grid, ensuring 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 orientated. 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.
The Role
SONI is seeking to recruit both a Power System Planning Engineer and a Senior Power System Planning Engineer to join our Networks team. These roles will play a key part in shaping Northern Ireland's electricity network and supporting the transition to a low-carbon energy future. Working within the Power System Planning team, you will contribute to the development of the transmission system, ensuring it can safely and efficiently accommodate increasing volumes of renewable generation, demand growth, and emerging technologies while maintaining security of supply.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct power system studies and analysis to identify risks and opportunities across the transmission network.
- Develop and assess transmission network reinforcement solutions.
- Support long-term strategic and spatial energy planning initiatives in Northern Ireland.
- Evaluate connection options for new generation, demand and enabling technologies.
- Develop technical reports, standards and documentation used across the electricity industry.
- Build and maintain effective relationships with regulators, industry participants and key stakeholders.
- Identify and implement improvements to planning processes, methodologies and policies.
- Collaborate with the Transmission Owner and other stakeholders to develop and maintain transmission network models.
Critical Knowledge, Skills and Experience
Power System Planning Engineer:
- Essential: Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or an equivalent relevant discipline. Minimum of 2 years' relevant engineering or industry experience. A strong interest in supporting the transition to a net zero power system. Understanding of power system analysis and a desire to further develop technical expertise.
- Desirable: Understanding of transmission system operation and planning. Ability to solve complex technical problems. Strong collaborative and team-working skills. Effective written and verbal communication skills. Ability to analyse large datasets and an interest in Python programming. Commitment to continuous learning and professional development.
Senior Power System Planning Engineer:
- Essential: Degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering or an equivalent relevant discipline. Minimum of 4 years' relevant engineering or industry experience. Strong technical knowledge of power systems, transmission planning and transmission equipment. Experience conducting power system studies, including load flow and transient stability analysis. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to work independently and deliver high-quality outputs to challenging timescales. Experience analysing large datasets using Python programming. Strong stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Desirable: Commitment to supporting the transition to a net zero power system. Understanding of the Northern Ireland transmission system. Experience with power system analysis tools such as PSS®E and PowerFactory. Experience working within the electricity or energy sector.
Why join us?
- Play a vital role in shaping sustainable energy projects that benefit communities and the environment.
- Enjoy a competitive salary, performance-related bonus, private medical cover, and pension matching.
- Benefit from flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options (3 days office / 2 days home).
- 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, supports flexible working and empowers you to grow.
If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the energy sector, we’d 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 20 August 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.
Power System Planning Engineers (S202648) in Belfast employer: Soni
At SONI, we are committed to transforming the energy landscape in Northern Ireland, offering a dynamic and collaborative work environment that prioritises safety, security, and reliability. Our employees enjoy competitive salaries, flexible working arrangements, and robust professional development opportunities, all while contributing to meaningful projects that benefit communities and the environment. Join us to be part of a supportive team dedicated to creating a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Power System Planning Engineers (S202648) in Belfast
✨Get Involved with Industry Events
The energy and utilities sector is always buzzing with events, trade shows, and networking opportunities. We should hit up conferences and exhibitions like Energy UK or Utility Week Live—these are prime spots to mingle with industry professionals and even snag some insider info on job openings!
✨Join Energy-focused Online Communities
Let's tap into online platforms and forums like LinkedIn groups or Reddit communities specifically for energy and utilities. Not only can we showcase our knowledge, but we can also stay updated on company announcements or job leads from people already in the know.
✨Consider Industry Certifications
Pushing ahead with certifications like the NEBOSH National Certificate in Occupational Safety and Health (if you’re into safety) can give us a leg up in this competitive field. It not only builds our credibility but also shows employers that we’re serious about our career in energy and utilities.
✨Apply ThroughSoni's Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through Soni's website for the full-time Power System Planning Engineers (S202648) role. Many companies prioritise candidates who show initiative by going straight to the source. Make sure we tailor our application to highlight our passion for the energy sector!
We think you need these skills to ace Power System Planning Engineers (S202648) in Belfast
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Energy Knowledge:When crafting your CV and cover letter, make sure you highlight any knowledge or experience related to the energy-utilities sector. Whether it’s coursework, internships, or projects that showcase your understanding of energy management, sustainability, or regulatory frameworks, we want to see that passion and expertise shine through.
Quantify Your Achievements:In our field, numbers speak volumes! Don’t just tell us about your previous roles; quantify your achievements where possible. For instance, mention how you improved energy efficiency by a percentage or contributed to cost savings. This makes your application more compelling and shows us just how impactful you can be.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to connect personally with us at Soni. Tailor it to reflect how your values align with our mission in the energy sector. Share why you're excited about this specific role and how you envision contributing to our goals.
Demonstrate Your Team Spirit:Collaboration is key in the energy-utilities industry. In your application, emphasise any team projects or experiences where you worked effectively with others, especially on sustainability initiatives or technical projects. We're looking for someone who can mesh well with our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Soni
✨Show Your Passion for Renewable Energy
In the energy-utilities sector, it’s vital to demonstrate your enthusiasm for sustainable practices and innovations. Share experiences where you've worked on or studied renewable energy projects, whether that’s through coursework, past internships, or personal initiatives. Let us see how your passion aligns with the ethos of Soni.
✨Brush Up on Industry Regulations
Being familiar with industry standards and regulations is crucial in energy-utilities interviews. Make sure to know the basics of relevant policies and frameworks, like the Energy Act or environmental legislation. This will not only show you’ve done your homework but will also prepare you for potential technical questions about compliance during your interview.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Project Management Skills
Most roles in the energy sector involve collaboration with diverse teams. Be ready to discuss examples where you’ve successfully worked in teams or led projects, especially those involving energy initiatives. This is particularly important for a full-time position, as employers want to see you bring a collaborative spirit to Soni.
✨Prepare for Technical Assessments
Expect some technical questions or even practical assessments during your interview, especially about energy efficiency methodologies or basic engineering principles relevant to the role. It’s a good idea to brush up on key concepts and be prepared to explain them clearly, as this will demonstrate your technical proficiency and readiness to jump into your new role.
