About the role

We are seeking a Future Technology Engineer to play a key role in shaping the next generation of our electricity network.

This role sits at the intersection of power systems, digital technology, and network strategy, with a strong focus on identifying, developing, and implementing technologies that enable:

• Distributed energy resource (DER) integration
• Demand response and flexibility services
• Two-way power flow and distribution system operations (DSO capability)

You will be responsible for evaluating emerging technologies, developing practical engineering solutions, and translating these into real-world network capability through design, business cases, and project delivery. Working across Planning, SCADA, Operations, and Data/Analytics functions, you will help drive a step-change in how the network is monitored, controlled, and optimised — ensuring it remains future-ready, efficient, and resilient. Based in Kerikeri and reporting to the Planning Manager, this role offers a unique opportunity to influence both technology strategy and implementation within the network.

About you

You are an engineer who combines strong technical foundations with curiosity about emerging technology and system transformation.

It is essential that you have

• A bachelor's degree in electrical engineering (power systems or digital/technology focus)
• At least 3 years' experience in the electricity supply industry, with a good understanding of communications protocols, its application and significance within power systems.
• Experience in assessing, developing, or implementing operational or information technology solutions
• Knowledge of New Zealand electricity industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements
• A full, current NZ Driver Licence is essential

You will also demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving capability with the ability to translate emerging technologies into practical network solutions whilst confidently working across multi-disciplinary teams. It would be an added advantage to be a Chartered Professional Engineer (or working towards) with experience in project delivery or business case development

Key areas of focus

• Drive the development and design of a future-proofed communications network that supports current and future operations, operational technology and network performance monitoring by collaborating with the SCADA & Comms Engineer, DSO Manager and relevant business streams
• Collaborate with the SCADA and Operations teams for the development, design and configuration specification of back-office operational technology capability from a network engineering support perspective.
• Drive the assessment and implementation of suitable communications protocols that enable near real-time communication, transactions and controls to occur between relevant electricity network stakeholders in collaboration with the Communications Engineer.
• Actively manage or assist in the coordination of projects (depending on project scope) undertaken by internal and external service providers, consultants, and contractors according to the network standards
• Provide budget advice for the financial year and 10-year asset management plan, driven by network requirements that you influence.
• Develop instruction manuals for installing and operating new electrical systems and equipment
• Develop and maintain network standards for network operations and management.

Additional skills and attributes

• Holds self and others accountable for required work output and standards
• Ensures that effective controls and contingency plans are in place
• Projects/tasks within the area of own accountability are completed on time and within budget
• Has a positive attitude towards job and colleagues

Why Join Us

• Fully subsidised health insurance
• Enhanced Parental Leave Policy
• Online Wellness programme, including one paid Wellness day annually
• Relocation assistance package and short-term accommodation offered if moving regions

We will be reviewing applications as they come in and inviting successful candidates to interview before the closing date.

We have a Drug and Alcohol Workplace Policy. Before any offer of employment is made, the short-listed candidate(s) will be required to undertake a pre-employment medical check which will include a drug and alcohol test.