Senior Grid Connection Engineer

Job description

Your role - purpose & impact The Senior Grid Connection Manager leads the technical and regulatory sales and delivery of grid connection and performance compliance for NEM or WEM connected assets (standalone storage and hybrid). The role is responsible for preparing and executing modelling studies, connection applications, validation & verification (R0, R1, R2 as well as HIL) as required under the National Electricity Rules (NER), ensuring the plant meets Generator Performance Standards (GPS), handling hold ‑ point testing, coordinating with AEMO / NSPs, and using simulation tools (PSCAD, PSSE, PowerFactory, SSAT) to design, test and verify system performance, particularly for grid ‑ forming inverter based resources. Your mission – what you can expect: Lead grid connection applications under NER (R0/R1/R2 processes), liaising with AEMO and NSPs with regard to technical, network, protection and performance topics, including ensuring that the documentation packages are complete, accurate and submitted on time, whether undertaken in house or undertaken by a third party Perform simulations including system stability, fault ride-through, voltage/frequency control, system strength / inertia, small signal stability, and other NER compliance Conduct parameter sensitivity and scenario studies to ensure robustness of design and that the selected inverter controls, settings and protections demonstrating that both performance and compliance are met under varying grid conditions Develop, execute and document test plans, test reports (R2 verification), including tests of GPS compliance, protection, ride‑through events, dynamic response Plan, manage and lead commissioning test preparation including pre-simulations, hold-point testing and R2 validation to confirm compliance with approved models Represent the company in technical discussions with AEMO, NSPs, customers, and other stakeholders to secure approvals and lead timely resolution of complex technical issues Provide input into project strategy, risk positioning, and commercial decisions related to grid compliance Monitor post-commissioning performance, analyse deviations, implement optimisation measures and derive lessons & improvements Maintain high-quality and accurate technical documentation, document control standard as well as change management processes Improve internal processes (modelling, test planning, stakeholder management) to reduce risk, time and cost Stay current with evolving NER / AEMO / NSP requirements, grid technology trends (especially inverter based, grid forming, new protection/control strategies) Contribute to mentoring, technical leadership, expert knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement of engineering processes Your profile – what you bring: Education & Background : Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering / Power Systems or equivalent (Master’s preferred); Strong foundation in power system dynamics, stability, and control. Experience : 6+ years in grid-connected generation, storage, or hybrid projects (NEM or similar markets) Proven experience across the full grid connection lifecycle (R0/R1/R2, commissioning, GPS compliance) Experience working with AEMO and NSPs, in negotiating GPS and demonstrating compliance Technical Skills : Deep expertise in PSCAD, PSSE and/or PowerFactory, and ability to interpret model outputs, compare to actual system behaviour and resolve issues Strong understanding of inverter-based resources and grid-forming technologies in various grid conditions Strong experience in commissioning, leading R2 test plans, on site testing and troubleshooting Regulatory & Industry Knowledge: Strong knowledge of NER, GPS requirements, and connection processes Familiarity with evolving grid codes and inverter-based resource requirements Soft Skills & Attributes: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; Ability to communicate complex technical concepts clearly; strong verbal and writing skills; Collaborative, proactive, and detail-oriented; Strong ethical awareness and commitment to safety, quality and compliance. Desiable Extras Experience with grid consultants Programming/data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB) Exposure to hybrid systems (BESS + generation) Does this sound interesting to you? Follow the links below to learn more about some of our projects: Project St. Eustatius: 100% Caribbean Solar Power Project Hydrogen Dune Project BigBattery Lausitz at the Schwarze Pumpe site We shape alternative energy solutions for future generations. Join our young, passionate team and become part of our success story. As part of the SMA Group, you’ll enjoy attractive corporate benefits while working in a dynamic and innovative environment. We look forward to receiving your application! Your contact: Cora Schneider | Altenso Australia Pty Ltd | Phone: +49 561 9522-0 #Altenso Australia Pty Ltd *At Altenso, we stand for equal opportunity and diversity – regardless of gender, age, origin, religion, disability, or sexual orientation.