Grid Conection Manager

Key Responsibilities

• Evaluate, plan, and deliver grid connection works for NEM-connected renewable energy projects throughout the full project lifecycle.
• Assess regulatory compliance requirements and conduct internal grid connection point feasibility studies.
• Manage grid connection applications end-to-end, ensuring timely submission and smooth progression through NSP and AEMO processes.
• Provide technical support during project development, including supporting balance-of-plant tendering and ensuring grid-related factors are fully considered.
• Maintain strong relationships with NSPs and OEMs to drive service performance and alignment with company standards.
• Monitor grid intelligence, implement new connection methods driven by policy updates and industry standards, and develop standardized grid connection arrangements to improve efficiency, reduce timelines and costs, while maintaining or enhancing plant performance.
• Support project managers with grid expertise across the full project lifecycle, including on-site support as needed.
• Support asset managers with grid-related expertise during plant operation and maintenance.
• Identify and unlock value opportunities within transmission and distribution (T&D) networks.
• Lead grid connection activities for renewable energy and BESS projects, serving as the primary interface with NSPs, AEMO, and external consultants.
• Independently conduct and review technical due diligence for grid connection matters, including preparation and assessment of GPS-related studies and connection application documentation.
• Manage external consultants across technical, commercial, and delivery scopes, including schedules, budgets, quality, and technical direction, to achieve practical and efficient connection outcomes.
• Proactively engage with NSPs and key stakeholders to negotiate technical and commercial positions, resolve connection issues efficiently, and accelerate approval and registration timelines.
• Maintain strong working relationships and open communication with consultants, NSPs, AEMO, and industry stakeholders to secure timely market intelligence and support successful project delivery.

Required Qualifications & Experience

• Thorough understanding of the National Electricity Rules (NER).
• Working knowledge of the current NEM network status, constraints, upgrade plans, and connection opportunities.
• Working knowledge of Marginal Loss Factor (MLF) calculation methodology and long-term impact factors.
• Demonstrated experience engaging with AEMO, NSPs, and grid modelling consultants to progress projects through GPS and connection negotiations.
• Proven ability to identify and resolve grid connection issues.
• Working knowledge of substation, BESS, and solar farm reticulation design and construction.
• Strong project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple concurrent projects.
• Experience working with EPC contractors and engineering design consultancies.
• Self-directed and able to manage grid connection processes autonomously.
• Excellent communication skills; ability to provide grid connection advice and support to multiple project delivery teams.
• Flexibility to travel across Australian states as required.
• Eagerness to develop professional capabilities with an established renewable energy developer offering clear career progression.