About the role:

Shape how New Zealand’s electricity distribution networks evolve. As Head of Future Networks, you will set the direction and architecture of MainPower’s future network as we prepare for a changing energy environment on the journey to net-zero 2050. You will lead a team of five engineers and specialists delivering network transformation, planning, performance, resilience and investment, and drive our Distribution System Operator (DSO), Distributed Energy Resources (DER) and network flexibility workstreams. Reporting to the General Manager – Network and Future Energy, you will be a key member of the Network team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide technical and strategic leadership, and coach, develop and retain a high-performing Future Networks engineering team, including supporting our graduate engineering and internship programme
• Define and deliver the future network architecture and strategic roadmaps, including DSO, DER integration, network flexibility and non-network solutions
• Lead network planning, scenario-based energy forecasting and the 10-year network development investment plan, and present technical strategy to the Executive Leadership Team
• Support the 10-year Asset Management Plan and network investment programme, balancing investment priorities, risk, reliability and resilience, cost-to-serve and the impacts of climate change on network assets
• Represent MainPower with industry bodies and EDB peers, apply industry standards, and champion safety by design and the risk management framework in all Future Networks work

About you:

You are a professional engineer with deep technical credibility in electricity distribution and a passion for what comes next in the energy transition. You are an innovative problem solver who takes initiative, makes sound, timely decisions, and leads, coaches and develops engineers while putting safety and customers first.

Additionally, you will bring:

• A tertiary Level 7 qualification or higher in Electrical Engineering and/or Engineering Management
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience in the New Zealand energy sector in network strategy and development planning, asset management and operations
• Proven leadership experience in strategic thinking, energy system planning, network development, reliability, security, quality of supply and investment analysis
• Sound knowledge of industry regulations and standards
• Experience writing professional business cases, standards and guides

MainPower requires all successful applicants to complete a pre-employment drug test. 

To apply for this position, you must have New Zealand residency or a valid New Zealand work visa.

What’s in it for you:

We value and support our employees through a community‑focused work environment and provide access to a wide range of wellbeing and development benefits:

• Nine-Day Fortnight Option
• Life Insurance
• Subsidised Health Insurance
• Subsidised Gym Membership
• Professional Development
• Recognition Programmes

Why work for us:

Our people are critical in ensuring that we deliver on our vision. At MainPower, we deliver value by providing a safe, secure, and reliable electricity distribution network for our local community. We are committed to developing a strong workplace culture where people are supported, empowered, and provided the tools required to deliver in their roles. Our values reflect how we interact with each other, our community, and our customers.

How to apply:

We assess applications as they are received so click” Apply” to submit your application today.

Even if you don’t meet every single requirement, we still encourage you to apply. We're eager to meet people that believe in our mission and can contribute to our team in a variety of ways—not just candidates who check all the boxes. Please submit your resume and a cover letter explaining why you are interested in this role and how you believe you can contribute to our team.

MainPower welcomes people from all backgrounds and walks of life. We are proud to have a diverse and inclusive environment and are committed to providing opportunities for all our people.