Senior Project Planner

Senior Project Planner - Grid Connections Engineering

Join to apply for the Senior Project Planner - Grid Connections Engineering role at Australian Energy Market Operator (AEMO).

AEMO is Australia's independent energy system and market operator and system planner. AEMO's purpose is to ensure safe, reliable and affordable energy today, and enable the energy transition for the benefit of all Australians. Australian governments are committed to a net zero economy for Australia by 2050 and our vision is to enable this. We have the opportunity to co-design the future of our energy systems, and our core values revolve around character, commitment, and connection. Join us as we contribute to this significant transition in the energy sector.

Division: System Design | Department: Onboarding & Connections | Reference number: 12486 | Engagement type: Permanent

About The Role

As a Senior Project Planner in the Onboarding and Connections team, you'll help shape the future of the energy sector by supporting the timely delivery of new and existing generation and storage projects. You'll develop and manage delivery plans across a portfolio of diverse connection projects—spanning both transmission and distribution—and support the rollout of a consistent project management framework across the NEM. You'll also work closely with the Connections Reform team to embed process improvements into business-as-usual operations. Your stakeholders will include Network Service Providers (NSPs), generation developers, investors, equipment and technology providers, consultants, government bodies, and internal AEMO teams.

What You Will Be Doing

• Develop and maintain detailed project plans and forecasts in collaboration with project managers and engineering leads, ensuring visibility for both internal teams and external stakeholders.
• Accurately estimate task efforts and support resource planning by allocating engineering hours and forecasting short- and long-term needs.
• Drive consistent project delivery by embedding Connections Reform Initiative (CRI) improvements and promoting structured planning practices across regions.
• Proactively manage project risks, including time, cost, and scope variations, and maintain clear escalation and communication processes.
• Create portfolio reports and tracking tools to support management oversight, resource prioritisation, and timely delivery of critical milestones.

What You Will Bring To The Role

Education

• Tertiary qualifications in an appropriate discipline (project management, engineering, or a related field).
• Recognised project management certification is well regarded.
• Expert skills in using Microsoft Project.

Experience, Knowledge, And Capabilities

• Strong knowledge of the energy sector, including regulatory, commercial, and legal considerations for large infrastructure projects.
• Strong experience in planning and delivering complex projects or programs in energy, engineering, or similar industries.
• Skilled in managing multi-disciplinary teams, project controls, and client relationships, with a proactive and collaborative approach.
• Advanced expertise in Microsoft Project (Macros, custom reporting, Gantt views) and familiarity with CRM and Enterprise Project Management systems.
• Excellent communication skills, with a proven ability to engage stakeholders and deliver clear written and verbal updates.

Benefits

• Flexible working: work from home, part time, job share, hybrid options, and additional leave options
• Professional development via projects, industry networks, job rotation, study assistance and more.
• Give back with up to 4 days of volunteering leave per year.
• Reward your hard work with annual performance bonuses (subject to eligibility).
• Wellness program, discounted health insurance, gym perks and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

About Our Process

At AEMO we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome people of all backgrounds, including people with disabilities and neurodivergence and those who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. If you have any accessibility requirements to support you during the application or interview process, simply let us know by emailing talent@aemo.com.au

Job Details

• Seniority level: Mid-Senior level
• Employment type: Full-time
• Job function: Project Management and Information Technology
• Industries: Utilities

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