Principal Engineer

Overview Join to apply for the Principal Engineer - Network Planning 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, with core values around character, commitment, and connection. Join us as we contribute to this significant transition in the energy sector. About the Role Principal Engineers within the System Planning department are responsible for leading complex power system analysis projects that quantify emerging system needs and trigger network investment decisions over the medium-to-long term. Principal Engineers also lead model and methodology development to better represent the future energy system and assess the integration challenges that may exist for a system with high levels of renewable integration. The Network Planning Principal Engineer focuses on leading the development of futuristic constraint equations to assess power system limitations across the National Electricity Market through the energy transition. They will frequently lead engineering and power system advisory services to Government and other stakeholders. Principal Engineers provide subject matter expertise and quality assurance, delivering evidence-based advice to management and stakeholders to inform investment decisions. What You Will Be Doing Lead the delivery of high-quality power system modelling and analysis projects, providing expert recommendations on network adequacy, system reliability, and investment planning. Provide strategic, technically sound engineering advice to support AEMO’s power system planning, balancing uncertainty, stakeholder needs, and data limitations. Scope and manage complex cross-functional projects, including methodology development, technical assessments (e.g., system strength, inertia, voltage control), resource coordination, stakeholder engagement, and reporting. Develop advanced system modelling tools (e.g., constraint equations) to support market simulations and future system reliability assessments for the National Electricity Market. Represent the team as a technical advisor across industry forums and working groups, building internal and external stakeholder relationships to drive collaboration and knowledge sharing. Mentor junior staff, contribute to team planning and risk management, and support the Manager in leadership tasks, including acting in their role when required. What You Will Bring To The Role Education / Certificates Tertiary qualification in a relevant discipline (e.g. electrical engineering, mathematics, physics) with ideally 7+ years’ experience in power system planning, design, or operation, and strong expertise in system stability and dynamics. Chartered (CPEng/RPEng) or actively working towards professional engineering accreditation. Experience & Knowledge Strong experience in system-wide power system modelling and using insights to inform planning and operational decisions. Proficient with tools like PSSE, PSCAD, DIgSILENT, and MATLAB; experience with automation using Python or similar is desirable. Skilled in defining functional requirements for system services, control schemes, and regulatory or market design changes. Proven ability to lead technical teams, deliver complex studies, and produce high-quality reports and publications. Excellent communicator with strong stakeholder engagement skills and ability to adapt to emerging challenges. Solid understanding of AEMO’s role, the NEM, and Australia’s energy regulatory and investment frameworks. 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. Volunteer leave up to 4 days per year. Annual performance bonuses (subject to eligibility). Wellness program, discounted health insurance, gym perks and Employee Assistance Program (EAP). Process and Inclusion 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 accessibility requirements to support you during the application or interview process, please email Job Details Seniority level: Mid-Senior level Employment type: Full-time Job function: Engineering and Information Technology Industries: Utilities Open to applicants in Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. #J-18808-Ljbffr