Principal Engineer

Division: System Design 

Department: Victorian Power Systems Analysis 

Reference number: 12732 

Engagement type: Permanent

AEMO at the Heart of Energy

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 now committed to a net zero economy for Australia by 2050 and our vision is to enable this. We have the once-in-a-lifetime 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.  

Be part of a brand-new team shaping how Victoria's grid operates through collaboration and consultation across all operability functions. Hybrid & flexible working with excellent benefits including generous bonus. Able to be based out of Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney (2 locations), Perth, Adelaide and Hobart. Lead Victoria's energy transition beyond coal, shaping a cleaner, smarter power system. Ability to assess network constraints and identify practical solutions. Strong PSS/E & PSCAD required.

About the division and role

Victorian Power System Analysis is accountable for planning the transmission system, making network investment decisions and connecting new generators and loads in Victoria, and ensuring these investments don't adversely impact the power system as a whole.  

The department plays a key role in successfully navigating the energy future by determining and procuring investment in the best interest of consumers, and by acting as a trusted advisor for Victorian Government.

The Specialist Engineer leads strategic power system analysis and provides expert technical advice supporting planning analysis, operability, and investment decisions for Victoria's declared shared network. This role delivers evidence-based insights that guide AEMO and VicGrid toward achieving net zero targets while maintaining system security and reliability.

The Specialist Engineer also mentors internal teams and advises management on priorities, quality standards, and development initiatives. This is a rare opportunity to help build a brand-new team as key functions transition from AEMO to VicGrid. You'll play a vital role in shaping how operability functions come together, building on existing processes while creating new ways of working in a truly unique environment.

The position has the flexibility to be based out of any of our offices in Australia – Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth & Hobart. Quarterly travel will be required if residing out of Victoria.

What you will be doing

• Provide specialised technical advice and leadership on system operability, network data, models, and limits.
• Support the Manager with staff recruitment, development, performance management, and succession planning.
• Oversee network and system performance, identifying and resolving operational issues to maintain power system resilience.
• Coach and guide junior staff in network analysis to ensure high-quality, technically robust outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to develop consistent policies, manage multiple projects, and resolve system performance issues effectively.

Monetary and people accountabilities

Responsible for leading analysis and overseeing indirect reports, guiding junior staff, interpreting results, and presenting clear recommendations to technical and non-technical stakeholders.

What you will bring to the role

Education/Certificates

1. 
   
2. Tertiary qualifications in Electrical Engineering with a discipline relevant to power systems and at least 15 years of relevant post-graduate experience.

Experience & Knowledge

• Extensive experience in electricity transmission network planning across jurisdictional, short, medium, and long-term contexts.
• Strong understanding of AEMO's role and Victorian Planning functions, including the National Electricity Market, Rules, and Law.
• Proven capability in transmission network analysis, including use and interpretation of tools such as PSS/E, PowerFactory, or PSCAD.
• Demonstrated leadership in managing work packages and junior staff to deliver quality, timely outcomes across diverse teams.
• Skilled communicator with the ability to negotiate, influence, and prepare high-quality reports for senior management and external stakeholders.

In return some of our benefits to you 

• 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).
• Embrace a healthier you with our wellness program, discounted health insurance, gym perks and our comprehensive 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 us