Specialist/Principal Engineer

Division: System Design 

Department: Victorian Planning & Connections 

Reference number: 12729 

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.  

Shape Victoria's energy future by leading innovative power system solutions that integrate renewables and emerging technologies. Lead cutting edge projects driving the transition to a cleaner, smarter grid. Hybrid & flexible working. Excellent benefits including generous bonus. Able to be based out of Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney (2 locations), Perth, Adelaide or Hobart. Grid connections experience and PSS/E and PSCAD. NEM development.

About the department and roles

Victorian Power System Analysis is accountable for planning the transmission system, making network investment decisions, assessing the connection of 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 investments and approaches that are in the best interest of consumers, and by acting as a trusted advisor for VicGrid.

The Specialist Engineer and Principal Engineer roles within the Victorian Wind and Solar Connections and Victorian Synchronous and Storage Connections teams provide technical leadership on complex generation, demand, and storage connection projects. These roles deliver evidence-based advice to guide AEMO and VicGrid in planning and decision-making.

You'll lead advanced power system analysis and develop innovative solutions for integrating renewable energy, battery storage, offshore wind, data centres, and emerging technologies into the grid. Working across AEMO, VicGrid, and industry, you'll identify and resolve technical challenges impacting the NEM.

Both roles require deep expertise in power system analysis and transmission development, with opportunities to coach and mentor staff and advise management on priorities, quality, and process improvement.

The positions have 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.

AEMO provides an essential service and actively promotes flexible working arrangements within our team. We have strong team structures, culture, and communication tools in place to ensure all employees remain actively connected to each other and the broader AEMO organisation.

What you will be doing 

• Lead complex generation and storage connection projects, developing innovative solutions to technical challenges.
• Drive the technical assessment and integration of emerging technologies, including grid-forming, HVDC links, offshore wind, and data centres.
• Provide expert advice and mentorship to engineers, fostering capability and consistency across Victorian Connections teams.
• Represent AEMO and VicGrid as a trusted technical authority, engaging with industry, OEMs, and professional forums to influence innovation.
• Contribute to joint planning activities with VicGrid, NSPs, and other stakeholders to support coordinated network development.
• Develop and refine technical guidelines, studies (PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerFactory), and frameworks for integrating generation and storage into the Victorian network.
• Strengthen AEMO's reputation as a trusted advisor to developers, market participants, and government agencies.

People accountabilities

Lead analysis and guide junior staff, interpreting results to deliver clear recommendations that support effective system integration.

What you will bring to the role

Education/Certificates

• Relevant tertiary qualification in Electrical Engineering or other discipline relevant to power systems analysis.
• Already have obtained or eligible to apply for relevant engineering registration requirements (including RPEV)

Experience & Knowledge

• Significant experience in power systems engineering with expertise in system dynamics, stability, and generator performance.
• Proven experience modelling generator and system behaviour, resolving performance issues, and developing advanced technical solutions.
• Deep understanding of converter design and theory, with experience in new generation connections including wind, solar, batteries, and data centres.
• Proficient in PSCAD, PSS/E (v32–v34+), PowerFactory, SSAT, Mudpack, and Matlab.
• Skilled in defining technical requirements for system augmentations, including primary and secondary plant and control schemes.
• Strong understanding of AEMO's role, the NEM, regulatory frameworks, and commercial and legal aspects of large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Experienced mentor and communicator with proven stakeholder engagement, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

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