Electrical Power Systems Research Engineer

Conduct modelling and simulation studies of Australia’s current and next-generation electricity generation, transmission and distribution systems

Develop techniques for solving grid challenges including renewable energy integration, battery systems and distribution

Join CSIRO and translate science to industry impact as part of a global research business

CSIRO is Australia’s National Science Agency and is one of the world’s largest and most successful publicly funded research and development organisations. We deliver world-class science and outcome-focused research that generates economic, environmental, and social benefits for Australia in a global context. We have improved the lives of many around the world through our research and developments including WiFi, the Hendra virus vaccine, polymer banknotes, extended wear contact lenses, Aerogard and the Total Wellbeing Diet.

As Australia’s national science agency, CSIRO is well positioned to support governments, industries and communities through the energy transition. Science and innovation will be critical in supporting Australia’s transition, which is being driven by new technologies, changing consumer preferences, and efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. As we move towards a net zero emissions future, the four key components of the energy sector — electricity, industry, transport and exports — are evolving rapidly. In this dynamic landscape, CSIRO provides reliable, actionable, evidence-based research.

As an Electrical Power Systems Research Engineer, you will be required to contribute to applied research activities in electrical power systems and energy network modelling and control, working with a range of partners to take the latest optimisation, simulation and analytical techniques to impact the growth of Australia’s electricity system. You will have the opportunity to build and maintain international networks of research collaborators and deployment partners and pursue new ideas and approaches that create new concepts.

The Power Systems team have several new opportunities available, including Electrical Power Systems Research Engineers at various levels (Engineer, Senior and Principal Engineer) and a Power Systems Director role. Please visit the for more information on the vacancies or to learn more about . If you meet most of the criteria for one of these roles, we encourage you to apply as we intend to assess the roles together to build a complementary and diverse team.

Your duties will include:

Conduct modelling and simulation studies of Australia’s current and next-generation electricity generation, transmission and distribution systems (in near real-time and longer-term timeframes).

Develop approaches and techniques for solving grid challenges associated with renewable energy integration, managing battery systems or distributed energy resources. Deploy and test these techniques in real-world, large scale deployments.

A focus of these positions will be the multi-year program . The successful candidate will be heavily engaged in delivering this work.

Interact and collaborate with diverse industrial and research partners, including network service providers, universities, energy market and power system operators, start-up companies, and others.

Under limited direction, assist in the planning and preparation of research proposals and carry out research investigations, requiring originality, creativity and innovation.

Present results in a meaningful format, prepare reports for clients and/or write scientific papers for publication.

Location : Newcastle, NSW preferred. Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth or other sites with an Energy team presence may be considered.

Salary : AU$105k – AU$114k plus up to 15.4% superannuation

Tenure : Indefinite

Reference : 92124

To be considered you will need:

Bachelor’s degree and/or a PhD or equivalent relevant work experience in Engineering, Mathematics, or related fields, with a focus on power system engineering, modelling, planning, optimisation or control.

Experience in electrical generation/distribution/transmission system modelling, planning, optimisation or control.

An enthusiasm for applied research solving current problems for commercial partners.

Experience in one or more of the nine research topic areas identified in the CSIRO GPST Roadmap for Australia is desirable.

Previous experience with power system modelling tools, such as SINCAL, PowerFactory, OpenDSS, PSCAD and with programming/analysis tools, such as Python, Matlab, R, or Julia PowerModels is also desirable.

For full details about this role please view the 

Eligibility

Applications for this position are open to Australian/New Zealand Citizens, Australian Permanent Residents and international candidates. Visa sponsorship may be provided to the successful candidate if required. Appointment to this role is subject to provision of a national police check and may be subject to other security/medical/character requirements.

Flexible Working Arrangements

We work flexibly at CSIRO, offering a range of options for how, when and where you work.