Principal Power Systems Engineer

Align Talent are partnering exclusively with GridWise Energy Solutions to find a Principal Power Systems Engineer - this is a senior role with genuine scope for someone who wants to be at the centre of technically complex work and the commercial growth of a business they’re genuinely helping to shape.

If you’re an experienced power systems engineer looking for an environment that matches your technical depth and gives you the commercial influence to go with it, this is worth a read.

About GridWise Energy Solutions

GridWise Energy Solutions are a national engineering consultancy specialising in power systems engineering for the Australian energy sector. Power systems engineering is all they do - technically demanding grid connection work for large-scale wind, solar, and battery storage projects, from feasibility through to commissioning. Their commitment to delivering clear, strategic technical services has driven their growth and enabled them to take on increasingly complex projects in Australia’s fast-evolving renewable energy landscape.

The Directors come from power systems engineering backgrounds and stay close to the technical work. You’ll work alongside them on complex problems and client engagements, not just report to them. Decisions get made quickly - and if you see a better way of doing something, you can change it.

GridWise are at an early stage of deliberate growth. A Principal joining now will have genuine influence over the direction of the business - technically, commercially, and operationally. There is meaningful financial upside for the right people who join at this stage.

The Role

This is a senior role with real weight to it. You’ll lead the delivery of complex power system analysis for large-scale renewable energy projects, own key client relationships, and work directly alongside the Directors on proposals, commercial decisions, and the direction of the business.

You’ll be the senior technical authority across the project portfolio - technically strong and commercially aware, managing multiple engagements, leading client negotiations, and contributing to proposals and business development. You’ll have direct access to leadership, genuine autonomy over how you work, and a genuine stake in where the business goes next.

What You’ll Do

• Lead power system studies across the full grid connection lifecycle - feasibility through to commissioning - for utility-scale wind, solar, BESS, data centres, and large network loads
• Represent GridWise in technical discussions and negotiations with AEMO and NSPs, and resolve complex connection issues on behalf of clients
• Own key client relationships and serve as the primary technical contact for strategic accounts
• Lead the preparation of technical and commercial proposals and close engagements in collaboration with the Directors
• Build and develop relationships across the renewable energy, NSP, and emerging infrastructure sectors
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to junior through to Senior-level engineers
• Develop internal tools and drive improvements to analytical workflows

What You’ll Bring

• 10+ years of relevant experience in a power systems consultancy, network service provider, or market body
• 5+ years delivering grid connection studies for utility-scale renewable energy, data centre, large network load, or conventional generation projects in the Australian market
• Expert-level proficiency in PSS/E, PSCAD, and/or PowerFactory
• Strong Python scripting skills with demonstrated experience building automation tools; MATLAB and/or C++ also valued
• In-depth knowledge of the NER (Chapters 5 and 5A), AEMO technical standards, and NSP connection requirements
• Direct experience engaging with AEMO and NSPs, including navigating disputes and negotiating connection outcomes on behalf of clients
• Sound commercial judgement - able to scope engagements, assess risk, and contribute to fee proposals
• Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents only (including New Zealand Citizens)

What’s on Offer

• Technically complex and commercially significant work at the forefront of Australia’s renewable energy transition
• The opportunity to collaborate with a diverse and highly experienced team of industry professionals
• Direct access to the Directors and genuine autonomy over how you work
• Real influence over the technical and commercial direction of the business as it scales
• Competitive salary package, commensurate with experience
• Attractive performance bonuses tied to both project delivery and commercial outcomes - structured to reward the full scope of the role
• A genuine opportunity to participate in the financial success of the business as it grows
• Flexible working - hybrid from Melbourne CBD or fully remote outside of Melbourne and within Australia/NZ
• Novated car leasing and additional benefits - let them know what matters

If this resonates, apply now or reach out to ***email_hidden*** for a confidential conversation.

Align Talent is committed to connecting great candidates with opportunities where diverse perspectives are valued. Teams with different ideas and experiences are more creative, effective, and innovative. If this role excites you but you don't meet every point on the job description, applications from all qualified candidates are encouraged - skills, curiosity, and enthusiasm matter most.