Role Title: Senior Lead Engineer (Networks) Reports to: Head of Networks Location: Castlereagh House, Belfast (Hybrid) About Us SONI (System Operator for Northern Ireland) is Northern Irelands 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 Irelands 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 Networks team in SONI is central in responding successfully to this transformational change and the increased complexities of planning a power system that supports a clean energy system in Northern Ireland through planning and delivering high voltage customer connections and transmission system infrastructure projects in Northern Ireland. The Role We are seeking a highly motivated individual who is keen to play a leading role in shaping how the transmission grid in Northern Ireland will evolve to support the transformation of the power system and enable the transition to a low carbon energy future in Northern Ireland. As Senior Lead Engineer, you will report to the Head of Networks and lead the technical analysis of the power system and optioneering of grid solutions for connections and network reinforcement projects in a coordinated, efficient and economic manner that meets the needs of Northern Ireland into the future. Key responsibilities include: Leading the delivery of technical analysis and optioneering for transmission reinforcements in line with SONIs Grid Development Framework and the Transmission System Security and Planning Standards (TSSPS), including the development of needs and options reports with Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA), taking these projects through to Transmission Network Pre-construction Project (TNPP) submission to the Utility Regulator and obtaining internal capital approval. Leading the delivery of technical analysis and optioneering for new transmission connections to ensure timely delivery of transmission connection offers in line with the TSSPS, including application of the Transmission Connection Charging Methodology Statement (TCCMS) and working closely with the Connections and Strategy team. Supporting the SONI-NIE Networks Joint Project Management Office (JPMO) to ensure efficient and coordinated delivery of grid infrastructure throughout the Grid Development Framework, including identifying and implementing improvements in the early stages of grid development. Leading the delivery of key statutory documentation such as the Tomorrows Energy Scenarios System Needs Assessment (TES SNA), the Transmission Development Plan (TDP) NI and the Transmission Investment Plan (TIP) in close collaboration with NIE Networks. Supporting the development and implementation of a plan-led approach to power system planning through the review and development of existing and new policies including the TSSPS, the transmission cluster policy, contestability and development of a spatial energy plan for Northern Ireland. Building strong and effective relationships with key stakeholders such as NIE Networks, the Utility Regulator and relevant government departments. Identifying and implementing efficiencies in existing processes and policies. Coding development including refinement of existing codes or creation of new codes as required. Writing robust technical reports and governance papers and communicating these clearly to internal and external stakeholders. Providing guidance to team members and contributing to a team culture that is solution focused. Supporting the team manager with the management of a broad range of business as usual and ad-hoc projects. What Youll Need As a Senior Lead Engineer, youll need: Essential University degree in engineering, or other relevant equivalent degree, with a minimum of 5 years power system expertise and experience. Proven understanding of the Northern Irish power system. Demonstrated advanced technical knowledge of power systems, transmission system planning and/or transmission connections planning including optioneering for electricity network projects and working knowledge of transmission equipment. Proven experience in technical power system analysis with power system modelling skills in a software such as PSSE, PowerFactory or similar, with advanced use of Excel for data analysis and macro / Python coding development. Understanding of generation, demand and enabling technologies connecting to the power system. Demonstrated knowledge and application of relevant regulations, licence, technical standards, codes and policies relating to transmission system and connections planning. Advanced problem solving and analysis skills. Strong ability to develop and provide innovative solutions to complex issues in a timely manner. Excellent oral and written communication skills to articulate complex topics and results to a non-technical audience. Experience in writing technical reports and presenting these to internal and external stakeholders. 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, while also being able to define and guide own work under minimal supervision. Excellent organisational skills and strong track record of delivery. Passionate, engaging with a drive and enthusiasm to deliver on the company vision and strategy. Self-motivated, resilient and capable of delivering in the context of changing parameters/requirements. Desirable Demonstrated experience in dynamic, harmonic or techno-economic power system analysis. Knowledge of the Transmission Interface Arrangements and Utility Regulator approvals. Completed Masters or PhD in relevant discipline or attained CEng qualification. Proficiency in project management. 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 and cycle to work) 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 the successful applicant will be subject to AccessNI/international security check. Closing date for applications is 13 March 2025. SONI is an equal opportunities employer. SONI is not providing sponsorship for this role. Skills: Senior Lead Engineer Electrical Electronic