Senior Project Engineer - HVDC & Power Electronics (Controls)

Transpower's purpose is to empower the energy future for New Zealand - a future that delivers a net-zero carbon economy and a reliable, secure electricity system. As the owner and operator of the National Grid, Transpower provides the infrastructure and market systems that connect electricity generators to major users and the distribution networks that deliver electricity to homes and businesses across the country. (We don't own, generate, or sell electricity.)

Our context

Much of New Zealand's electricity is generated from renewable energy sources (primarily hydro, and increasingly wind and solar) which are located in remote areas. Essential to powering our country, the HVDC link connects the grid between the North and South Islands and plays an increasingly important role in balancing intermittent renewable generation across both Islands.

The HVDC Cable Replacement and Capacity Project (HVDC Project) aims to replace the three existing high voltage direct current (HVDC) cables that connect the North and South Island transmission systems with like-for-like cables by 2032, while also installing a fourth cable of the same type.

In addition, Transpower proposes to coordinate several related upgrade projects, including the replacement of the HVDC control system. This is a programme of work that occurs only once every 40-50 years.

A dedicated project team will support Transpower in delivering our HVDC programme of work, which includes the installation of 160km of subsea cables, the design and construction of replacement cable termination station buildings, installation of a new filter bank, and the replacement of the HVDC control systems, to name a few.

The opportunity

Reporting to the Project Director and guided by a Technical Lead, you'll play a key role in ensuring the effective and efficient specification and design of solutions across the programme of projects within the HVDC Project team's remit.

Transpower operates an outsourcing model for the design of project works; however, this role provides specialist engineering expertise and support to the HVDC Project, including the development of solutions for the HVDC Control Replacement and power electronics components.

Transpower's HVDC control system is highly complex, with connections extending into many parts of the grid infrastructure. It also plays a critical role in supporting the electricity market. Your technical expertise will be essential in clearly defining system requirements, resolving technical interface challenges, and overseeing the development, testing, and implementation of the new HVDC control system.

You'll provide project engineering services across the full project lifecycle, working closely with suppliers, design consultants, service providers, and both internal and external stakeholders. A strong focus on safety in design is essential.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to an iconic and nationally significant project.

What will you bring?

You'll hold a relevant tertiary qualification and be a Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) through Engineering New Zealand or an international equivalent.

Your strong technical expertise will be matched by clear, concise communication and a collaborative, inclusive working style. You'll provide engineering input across the project lifecycle, including preparing scopes for outsourced work and specifying and developing solutions for the replacement of HVDC power electronics and controls. Your focus will be on ensuring solutions meet project requirements while proactively managing risk.

You'll also follow this work through to implementation, providing technical support as needed.

To be considered, your CV and cover letter should demonstrate:

• 8-10 years of specialist engineering experience with HVDC, power electronics and controls, including design development, construction, and commissioning of assets (covering primary, control and protection, and information technology).
• In-depth understanding of the HVDC and power electronic control systems change process.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with a proven ability to work both commercially and strategically.
• A delivery-focused mindset and practical knowledge of project management principles.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain effective working relationships and networks.

Join us at Transpower

Aotearoa is powered by the people who work here. Every home, every marae, every electric vehicle, every hospital relies on the electricity we manage and deliver. This is your opportunity to join us on a mission that affects all New Zealanders - every day and long into the future.

With over 28 nationalities, our people provide diverse perspectives, knowledge, and deep and varied experience which they love to share and which we celebrate. We work in the office or on-site for a minimum of three days each week, which helps us build and maintain relationships, support learning, deliver outcomes, and sustain our culture.

This approach also offers staff the flexibility they need for both work and personal commitments, with adaptable daily start and finish times.

We prioritise wellbeing with a range of employee health and wellness benefits - check them out here.

Next steps

To apply for this unique opportunity to help upgrade New Zealand's vital electricity connection, please review the position description and submit your application along with a cover letter outlining your interest.

Role closes on Tuesday, 7 July; however, applications will be reviewed as they are received wherever possible.

Existing eligibility to work in New Zealand is preferred, and candidates in situ will be prioritised.