Senior Planning Engineer

Senior Planning Engineer: Permanent – Full-Time/Perth CBD Office

The Western Power strategy is driven by an ambitious and forward-focused vision: Working together to power a cleaner energy future. It acknowledges the collective effort involved in this exciting and challenging phase of WA’s energy transition, in which Western Power plays a key role. We are embarking on a journey towards a brighter, more sustainable future. Join us and be at the forefront of powering change.

Are you interested in joining a team that plays a vital role in planning the transmission network as part of the energy transition to facilitate load growth and renewable energy connections.

The team/department:

You will be joining Western Power’s Transmission Systems & Operational Planning team within our Grid Transformation Function based in Perth CBD.

The team is accountable for undertaking power system studies relating to steady state, dynamic, transient, power quality and small signal power system performance. You will work with internal and external stakeholders to carry out Generator Performance Standards compliance assessments. 

What you will be doing:

As a Senior Planning Engineer you will be focussing on the following:  

• Develop, maintain and validate the DIgSILENT Powerfactory base case model including generator and load dynamic models.
• Perform specialist studies relating to rotor angle, small signal, frequency and voltage stability, electromagnetic transients and corona with PSCAD or equivalent software packages.
• Prepare and justify connection advice for larger generators and customers, including connection and shared network augmentations, and assist with managing stakeholder expectations regarding delivery of their project.
• Perform incident investigations and work with generators and customers to define control system settings to maximise power system security. Witness and assess generator compliance tests.

What you will get from the role

In-depth Exposure to Transmission Network Operations: Gain hands-on experience with detailed operational planning studies of the Transmission network, enhancing your understanding of power system operations and challenges.

• Advanced Simulation Opportunities: Run a variety of power system simulations, including dynamic, RMS, and EMT simulations, using cutting-edge tools and methodologies to refine your technical skills.
• Deep Understanding of the SWIS: Develop a comprehensive understanding of the South West Interconnected System (SWIS) by working directly within Western Australia's primary electricity network, providing valuable insights and expertise in utility operations.
• Career Development and Growth: Take advantage of a great opportunity for career development, with mentorship and professional development programs designed to help you grow within the company and the industry.
• Working in a collaborative and diverse team environment where knowledge sharing and mentorship are highly encouraged, allowing you to grow professionally and technically.

Western Power isn't just a workplace; it's a community where innovation thrives, safety is paramount, and support is always at hand. We celebrate diversity and champion inclusivity, offering a range of benefits such as:

• Competitive salary plus 11.5% superannuation
• Professional Development opportunities including training initiatives
• An award-winning employee recognition and benefits programme
• Access to five Employee Network Groups – First Nations, Culturally and Linguistically Diverse, Diverse Sexualities and Genders, Women, and People with Disability – which celebrate and communicate the diversity of our workforce and connect diversity and inclusion to our broader business activities
• The opportunity to purchase up to four weeks of additional leave per year
• Access to salary packaging, social club activities, and discounted health insurance and gym membership

Our people play a vital role in creating an innovative, safe, and supportive workplace, living our values and delivering exceptional service to the communities in which we operate.
 

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and strongly encourage applications from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, people with disabilities, people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds, women, young & mature age workers, the LGBTQI+ community.

Check out our website for more information on our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion, including our Reconciliation Action Plan and Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.

The skills and experience you will have:

We are seeking someone with experience and attributes that include:

• Degree in Engineering (Electrical or equivalent) and Eligible for CPEng / NPER registration OR Successful completion of a three-year Graduate Development Program (Engineer)
• At least 9 + years relevant broad and extensive knowledge and expertise with demonstrated technical experience covering the following areas:
• Planning, design, operation and maintenance of electricity transmission networks;
• Large generation and load connection studies including assessment of dynamic behaviour, control system assessments and tuning of parameters.
• Economic and financial evaluation techniques.
• Knowledge of performing load flow and dynamics studies in Powerfactory or equivalent software packages.
• Knowledge of specialist studies relating to rotor angle, small signal, frequency and voltage stability, electromagnetic transients and corona;
• Understanding of energy markets and good appreciation of regulatory frameworks.
• Knowledge of modelling requirements for performing transmission network power system studies.
• Broad knowledge of transmission system plant and its application, including the planning criteria, specifications and design requirements
• Proficiency in key computer systems and specialty power system analysis applications
• High competency in report writing with excellent interpersonal, communication and negotiation skills.

Important information about Western Power:

We are committed to our Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2021 - 2027 and ensuring that people with disability have equal opportunities to gain and maintain employment with Western Power. It is strongly encouraged that people with a disability who meet the inherent requirements of the position description apply for this role.

We are also proud to have launched our Innovate RAP in Mar 2022 (Reconciliation Action Plan). Our Innovate RAP outlines our commitment to the Reconciliation journey in WA.

Please note that the final stages of our recruitment process require completed Background & Assessment Checks. This includes a current police clearance (issued within the last six months), checks on documentation and references which verify your identity and qualifications, and a medical assessment.

Join us and play a part in powering the future of Western Australia.

To find out more about us please visit https://www.westernpower.com.au/about/

What to expect from our interview process:

The recruitment process will involve the below stages:

• First interview

Applications close on 16^th September 2024.

Submit your application by clicking the ‘apply’ button.