Job Details
Role Title: Senior Engineer - Fixed Term Contract (Operations)
Reports to: Head of System Operations
Location: Belfast (Hybrid)
Duration: 30 Month Fixed Term Contract
About SONI
SONI is a Transmission System Operator (TSO) responsible for the safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity in Northern Ireland. It plays a pivotal role in the economy, supports competition in energy, promotes economic growth, facilitates renewable energy and provides essential services.
The transmission grid brings power from generation sites to where it is needed to supply industries and businesses that use large amounts of electricity. The grid also powers the distribution network, which supplies electricity for everyday use in homes and businesses across the Island. As a TSO, SONI works closely with EirGrid and the National Energy System Operator.
SONI operates the Single Electricity Market (SEM), the wholesale electricity market on the Island of Ireland. It is at the forefront of innovations in the industry, transitioning toward a low‑carbon, technology‑enabled smart future.
The Team
The Operations Directorate delivers the primary role of SONI – the operation, development and enhancement of the power system and the wholesale electricity market. SONI Operations is responsible for the sustainable implementation of transmission system and market development to meet future needs of all electricity users.
Roles cover system analysis, technical policies, procedures and specifications, control centre readiness, grid and network code management, technical audits and compliance. Most roles are fixed‑term contracts with a view to enduring positions.
System Operations Function
The core activity is to keep the lights on through meticulous planning and engineering analysis such as load‑flow studies, in advance of and during real‑time operation. The team develops, tests and incorporates the operational systems, tools, system services, standards and policies required to operate the power system and integrate new technologies securely. It liaises with stakeholders to manage planned and unplanned outages, voltage control, generator testing, scheduling and dispatch, risk management and responds to alarms and constraints to maintain grid security. It produces post‑event reporting and audits to demonstrate regulatory compliance and leads the development of resilience, business continuity and emergency response plans.
Markets, System Support and Analysis Function
This function facilitates the end‑to‑end operational life cycle of grid connections, from commissioning, testing and registration, through performance monitoring and data feed analysis until decommissioning. It manages tariffs, imperfections and derogations, ensures grid code compliance for new connections, validates plant providing system services, and develops test requirements. It carries out daily analysis of wind farms, solar farms, DSUs, batteries and conventional units to identify and resolve issues affecting system operation, such as signalling, failed dispatches, trips, frequency response and ancillary services. It aggregates, validates and publishes market‑related data for participant availability, dispatch instructions and metering, and performs techno‑economic modelling to evaluate operating costs. Findings are translated into tariffs and system charges in consultation with regulatory authorities.
Qualifications
* Engineering degree or equivalent, with a minimum of 4 years post‑qualification experience in power system operations.
* Ability to work collaboratively with customers and internal and external stakeholders.
* Guiding, persuading and influencing ability through strong communication and diplomacy.
* Excellent interpersonal skills and proven ability to work effectively as part of a team while defining and guiding own work with minimal supervision.
* Excellent organisational skills and a strong track record of delivery.
* Capacity to develop and progress innovative proposals and solutions.
* Good oral and written communication skills with the ability to explain technical concepts to non‑technical audiences.
* Strong work ethic, excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
* Demonstrated flexible working approach with ability to prioritise a wide range of demands and activities whilst maintaining a professional and positive focus.
* Comfortable with large data sets, can analyse data to derive conclusions.
Benefits
* Play a vital role in shaping sustainable energy projects that benefit communities and the environment.
* Enjoy a competitive salary, performance‑related bonus, private medical cover, and pension matching.
* Benefit from flexible working arrangements, including hybrid options (3 days office / 2 days home).
* Enhanced holidays, maternity and paternity leave and wellbeing days.
* Access salary sacrifice schemes such as cycle‑to‑work, EV scheme; free car parking, onsite EV charging and complimentary lunch.
* Access professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways.
* An inclusive culture that values diversity, supports flexible working and empowers growth.
Closing date for applications is 12 noon on 16 January 2026.
SONI is proud to be an equal opportunities employer. We value diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We particularly encourage women to apply, as they are currently underrepresented in our organisation.
We have a duty to prevent illegal working and applicants must demonstrate they have a legal right to work in the UK. SONI is not providing sponsorship for this vacancy.
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