Grid Development Specialist Lead

We are looking for a Grid Development Specialist Lead to join us on our journey to a Brighter Future.

The Renewables Projects section within the ESB Engineering and Major Projects (EMP) business unit provides project management and engineering services in support of renewable power generation for ESB and external clients. Renewable projects include onshore wind, offshore wind, solar PV and battery storage. Our projects range from major utility scale offshore wind farms over 1GW to small distributed solar projects or battery projects.

Wind energy, offshore wind in particular, has been identified as a key part of ESB’s strategy to increase renewable generation capacity to 5GW by 2030. Projects are expected to be developed from a number of sources including development opportunities and acquisitions. This role involves working in partnership with Asset Development leading all aspects of grid development of projects as the business case evolves and progress projects based on risks and opportunities.

Due to an increase in the volume of work associated with this programme of projects, a vacancy have arisen for a Grid Development Specialist Lead in EMP Renewable Projects Development (RPD).

Key Responsibilities

The Grid Development Specialist Lead will provide leadership and technical guidance in all aspects of the project lifecycle from early concept to commercial operational. The role will include some/all of the following:

• Build relationships with key stakeholders, including but not limited to ESB Asset Development, CRU, ESB Networks, EirGrid, National Grid, GB DNO’s, Scottish Power Transmission, Scottish Hydro Transmission and Ofgem.
• Techno-economic grid connection feasibility studies for large scale renewable, thermal and storage projects
• Shallow connection design and optimisation
• Connection method negotiation with the relevant system operator to include proposing innovative solutions to reduce costs, constraints and/or lead times.
• Management of Grid and Distribution Code Compliance including DS3 and reporting
• Management of energisation and commissioning activities in collaboration with external consultants and contractors
• Represent ESB on industry forums and working groups such as WEI, Renewable NI and Scottish Renewables.

Experience & Qualifications

Essential

• Level 8 qualification in Engineering/physical science or relevant work experience.
• A pro-active, enthusiastic, and commercially focused individual, with 7-10 year's engineering experience with at least 5 in a comparable role, a proven ability to collaborate and engage with stakeholders, an ability to work on own initiative and strong report writing capability.
• A strong understanding of all elements of HV Substation system design, specifications and standards and a knowledge of commissioning test techniques and requirements for Power Generation and/or HV substations.
• Experience with transmission and distribution planning standards.
• Experience with grid and distribution codes.
• A strong work ethic with a clear focus on delivery to ESB’s ’Brighter Futures Strategy’.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and the ability to work and share knowledge and competencies within a team structure and experience of managing contractors, consultants, and key stakeholders.
• Flexibility, which is important in all aspects of the role, including travel nationally and internationally.
• Full Driving Licence and access to a car.

Desirable

• Masters in Engineering/Physical Science or related discipline.Chartered Engineer status with a recognised engineering institution or demonstrate evidence of progression towards same.
• Project Management qualification.
• Experience with generator grid connection life cycle costs including shallow connection costs, Use of System charges, losses, balancing charges.
• Experience with grid connection policies, rules and regulations.
• Grid and Distribution Code Compliance knowledge of a range of generation technology including BESS, Solar, Conventional Generation, Onshore and Offshore wind.
• Experience with ESB’s Project Management Methodology or alternate project management processes.
• Independent Engineer / Due diligence experience.
• Working knowledge of Health, Safety and Environment Standards and procedures.
• Working knowledge of Electrical Safety Rules and ESBN Telemess procedures.

Location

Your base will be at one of our offices situated at One Dublin Airport Central or Eastgate Cork but travel to project locations in Ireland and the UK is a key requirement of the role.

ESB is committed to smart working – combining digital tools with a culture of trust and empowerment to enable flexible ways of working. The successful candidate may work flexibly within their jurisdiction with attendance at the workplace for in-person collaboration on at least one anchor day per week. All smart working arrangements are subject to manager approval and ongoing review, based on the operational requirements of the role, the team, and the individual.

Reporting to

Grid Manager, Generation Projects

Why Work with Us?

• Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future
• Progressive, hybrid working model
• Career development through mentoring and training
• Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities
• Sports and Social Clubs
• Networking opportunities
• Credit Union
• Generous Pension
• Access to staff well-being programmes
• Generous parental leave entitlements
• Strong values-based and inclusive culture
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
• Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted

Salary

€69,000 to €81,000 per annum

Closing Date

6th January 2025

Note: Applicants who anticipate requiring assistance or reasonable accommodations for any part of the application or interview process may contact, in confidence, recruitment@esb.ie

If you have any queries in relation to this job, please contact recruitment@esb.ie

Your application will be held in reserve for 6 months should you be suitable for the role.