Role Title: Senior Lead Engineer – Economic Analysis Reports to: Head of Future Power Systems Location: Belfast (Hybrid) About Us SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) is Northern Ireland’s Transmission System Operator (TSO). We manage the electricity grid to ensure that power can flow from where it is generated to where it is needed. We are now transforming the power system for future generations. Be part of the change Our focus is on safety, security and reliability. Our work environment is challenging, fast-moving, collaborative and team orientated. Our culture is driven by performance, knowledge and continual development. Our people are committed to reducing Northern Ireland’s reliance on fossil fuels and making decarbonisation a reality – while providing a safe and reliable electricity supply in a way that secures the future for those who follow us. Our future has never looked more exciting. This is an incredible opportunity to be part of it. The world is ready for change. If you are too, join us. The Role The Networks & Innovation directorate comprises highly skilled professionals with backgrounds in engineering, science and business/commerce. The core responsibility is to plan the power system, innovate in how we operate and develop the grid, to ensure we meet climate change targets and decarbonise the electricity system. Creating a culture of continuous improvement that drives technical and process innovation, is central to delivering in this role. The Future Power Systems function within the Networks & Innovation Directorate is responsible for power system scenario development, capacity & flexibility planning, and future operations planning. This role sits within the Economic Analysis team which provides strategic technical leadership around long term scenarios for the Northern Ireland energy system and the impact on the Northern Ireland power system that are consistent with government renewable targets and carbon emission budgets in both Ireland and Northern Ireland. Examples include development of scenarios that identifies the volumes and type of technologies needed to meet renewable and emissions targets in the context of Northern Ireland’s Energy Strategy and the new carbon budgets. The Economic Analysis team within the Future Power Systems function provide techno-economic analysis of the future power system; the team are responsible for the forecasting of year ahead imperfection costs, developing future energy scenarios that are aligned to government policy, and for modelling of the pan-European electricity system; in particular to understand the value of new interconnection opportunities and to identify flexibility needs within the Pan-EU power system. We now seek an innovative, solution focused, resilient and motivated individual to join the Future Operations team and play a key role in the transition to a low carbon energy future. Key Responsibilities The Economic Analysis team is at the forefront of scenario planning and modelling of Northern Ireland’s electricity system particularly as we transition to a net zero energy system. The Senior Lead Engineer will demonstrate an ability to thrive in a fast-paced, highly collaborative work environment. You will provide technical expert knowledge to the Head of Future Power System and lead the delivery of a range of projects relating to energy system scenario planning and lead the delivery of a range of technical modelling projects that will support decision makers in enabling a power system ready for net zero. Developing and leading technical modelling programmes for National and European studies and providing insights for the relevant reports. Supporting the model development to enhance scenario development frameworks aligned with government policies. Provide technical leadership to drive modelling changes that will enhance our agility and flexibility in development of long-term scenarios for Northern Ireland. Assist your manager by working closely with IT to find the best software and hardware solutions for techno-economic modelling requirements. Representing SONI at various internal and external fora in respect of technical studies for jurisdictional and all-island projects. Running simulations to support our work and role in the energy system modelling studies with a particular focus on the value offered in future interconnection; long duration energy storage and offshore projects and how they may influence a net-zero power energy system. Identifying and implementing efficiencies in our modelling processes, such as using coding to automate modelling inputs. Providing scenario planning guidance to junior members of the team. Presenting on studies both internally and externally. Determining key insights from the modelling activities and presenting these to internal and external stakeholders. Managing and co-ordinating the work of external consultants on key projects. Writing technical reports to support the techno-economic analysis carried out in the team. Supporting the team manager with the management of a broad range of business as usual and ad-hoc modelling projects. What You’ll Need Joining SONI as a Senior Lead Engineer – Economic Analysis, you’ll need: Essential: University degree in engineering, economics, mathematics or other equivalent degree, with a minimum of 5 years power system industry and electricity market expertise and experience. Proven advanced technical knowledge of energy systems, demand forecasting, interconnection and storage technology. Proven experience in modelling tools used in energy system scenario planning. Proven experience in advanced use of Excel for data analysis and macro / Python coding development. Advanced problem solving and analysis skills. Excellent communication skills to articulate complex model results, to a non-technical audience. Experienced in writing and presenting technical reports. Demonstrated consultation skills, with change management concepts and strategies including communication, culture change and performance measurement system design; Flexibility and agility to manage a wide range of issues at the same time. Excellent interpersonal skills and a proven ability to work effectively as part of a team. Desirable: Proven understanding/good technical knowledge of the Irish and Northern Irish power systems and how to model same Understanding of how the SEM operates and how to model it Understanding of National and European energy policy and scenario planning Knowledge of alternative energy system modelling and analysis techniques. Proficiency in project management as part of a team. Proficient in the use of techno-economic software such as Plexos. Applicants should note that based on the response, SONI may increase the shortlisting criteria. What You Will Get This is an opportunity to lead and contribute to the advancement of a critical component of the energy infrastructure. The rewards package includes a competitive salary commensurate with experience, eligibility for an annual performance related payment, private medical provision, competitive pension with employer matching arrangements, a variety of salary sacrifice schemes (e.g. pension, cycle to work and electrical vehicle leasing scheme) together with hybrid working arrangements (3 days office: 2 days working at home), flexible start and finish times, competitive holidays and complimentary car parking with electric charging point on site. If you are seeking a challenging and impactful role within the electricity sector, we invite you to apply. Submit your application by uploading your CV with a cover letter (in one document). Please note that successful applicant(s) is subject to AccessNI/ International Security Checks before confirmation of appointment. Closing date for applications is 09 April 2025. SONI is an equal opportunities employer. SONI IS NOT providing sponsorship for this role.