Network Planning Engineer - Innovation

Job description

Innovation at the core. Powering a smarter future. At Vector, we believe innovation is the key to a cleaner, more connected future. By embracing new ideas, forging strong partnerships and pioneering technologies that make energy more resilient and accessible, we’re setting new standards for our customers, and our industry. Learn more about how Vector is reshaping the energy sector through collaborations with the biggest names globally: Vector: Pioneering the future of energy. We collaborate globally - with leaders like X The Moonshot Factory, to bring cutting-edge technologies home. From innovative AI-driven grid management to advanced renewable integration, we’re shaping the future of energy. Our network isn’t just keeping up, it’s evolving – with predictive analytics, automation and digital tools that enhance reliability and customer experience. Sharing innovation – we offer technologies and business solutions across Auckland and the world, to help others embrace smarter energy systems that drive sustainability and efficiency. If you’re passionate about building a cleaner, more connected future, join us. The future isn’t waiting – we’re building it now. The role As Network Planning Engineer - Innovation, you’ll combine core electricity network planning with future-focused innovation. You’ll plan for network capacity, demand and development, analyse low-voltage network and customer data, identify constraints, and use modelling to develop practical solutions for load and distributed generation connections. You’ll provide network planning input into innovation projects from concept through to implementation, turning ideas into evidence-led trials and clear decisions. Working across technical, customer, commercial, digital, data and operational teams, you’ll test assumptions, compare traditional and non-traditional options, and help translate project learnings into future planning, low-voltage network management and flexibility services. What sets this opportunity apart is the breadth: approximately half your time will be grounded in traditional network planning, while the other half will focus on shaping the network of the future. You’ll contribute to Commerce Commission-supported innovation programmes and gain exposure to distributed energy resources, batteries, smart-meter analytics, Dynamic Operating Envelopes and Distribution System Operator concepts, with an exciting opportunity to influence how future electricity networks evolve. Please note: this role is available on a 1 year fixed term contract basis. Who are we looking for? A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in a relevant engineering field, together with 3-5 years’ experience in the electricity or a relevant engineering sector Experience in low-voltage network design and planning, including identifying constraints, assessing customer impacts and developing practical network solutions; experience supporting innovation projects, customer trials or first-of-kind work is also required Strong network analysis and modelling capability, including PowerFactory or similar simulation software, plus strong Excel and data analytics skills and the ability to draw useful insights from large datasets The ability to use network and customer data to create, test and refine Dynamic Operating Envelopes and other evidence-led planning outputs, ideally with exposure to distributed energy resources, batteries, distributed generation, smart-meter data or other future-grid technologies A curious, proactive and collaborative approach: you’re comfortable working through uncertainty with minimal supervision, can explain complex technical information clearly, and share knowledge across technical, customer, digital, data and operational teams. Why Vector We know that great energy starts with great people, and we’re committed to creating an environment where you can be, do and achieve your best: Enhance your wellbeing, protect your future and empower your personal and professional growth through our extensive benefits package Supercharge your career through internal opportunities, our progression scheme, tailored development plans and investment in your learning and growth We value diverse perspectives, which drive innovation and creativity. We encourage everyone to bring their full selves to work, embracing ideas that challenge and inspire Build a legacy doing work that matters – we’re keeping the lights on across Auckland, and driving a sustainable energy future for New Zealand. Vector plays a leading role in enabling Auckland’s electrification by investing in smarter, more resilient infrastructure that supports growth and better outcomes for customers. From modernising our network with data and technology to accelerating electrification, we're helping power Auckland's growth and transition to a lower-carbon future. Join us and you'll work on projects that matter, help shape the future of Auckland, and make a real impact across New Zealand. Apply now! Applications close by Sunday 13 September 2026; however, interviews may be held sooner – apply today! We know that some people may hesitate to apply if they don’t meet every single requirement. If this role excites you, we encourage you to apply anyway - your skills, enthusiasm, and unique perspective could be just what we’re looking for. Vector values diversity in all its forms and welcomes people of all backgrounds, experiences, identities and abilities to be part of our team.