Grid Automation Planning Engineer

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS:

• Assist the Head of Unit to conduct research to support GPL’s corporate aim of SUCCESS, LCDS-2030 and other National Energy Priorities.
• Assist with updating GPL’s Annual Development and Expansion Programme.
• Develop and maintain long-term grid automation plans aligned with system expansion and modernization goals.
• Evaluate and recommend automation technologies (e.g., SCADA, EMS, AGC, PMUs, RTUs, IEDs, FLISR, ADMS, DERMS).
• Conduct technical studies to assess the impact of automation on grid reliability, stability, and performance.
• Simulate and model automation scenarios using power system analysis tools.
• Ensure seamless integration of automation systems with existing grid infrastructure and IT/OT platforms.
• Collaborate with IT, cybersecurity, and operations teams to ensure secure and interoperable solutions.
• Provide technical input for automation-related capital projects.
• Support procurement, specification development, and commissioning of automation systems.
• Analyze operational data to identify automation opportunities and performance gaps.
• Develop KPIs and dashboards for monitoring automation system effectiveness.
• Coordinate with internal departments, utilities, regulators, and vendors on automation initiatives.
• Represent the organization in technical forums and working groups
• Stay updated on emerging grid automation trends, standards, and technologies.
• Lead pilot projects and proof-of-concept studies for innovative automation solutions.
• Remain updated with industry trends, tools, and best practices.
• Contribute to research initiatives on grid modernization, smart grid technologies, and DEcarbonization strategies.
• Contribute to Draft Project Concept Note, Terms of Reference, and Bankable Project Documents.
• Contribute technical inputs to EPC and IPP RFPs.
• Lead or participate in Site Visits.
• Enforce strict compliance with the requirements of the safety and health legislation, regulations, and contractual obligations.
• Perform other duties that are pertinent to the objectives of the Department’s Action Plan, and by extension, the Divisional Business Plan, to support the Company’s Corporate Strategic Plan, as assigned by or through the Head of Unit, Manager, or the Divisional Director — Engineering Services.

COMPETENCY PROFILE:

• Use of Microsoft Suite.
• Problem solving and analytical skills.
• Conflict resolution skills.
• Flexible and possess the ability to perform effectively under pressure.
• Familiarity with GPL Demand Forecast.
• Familiarity with electric distribution systems.
• Familiarity with electric transmission systems.
• Familiarity with electric generation systems- Renewable and conventional.
• Familiarity with electric substation systems.
• Be conversant with Safety Act and GPL Safety Handbook.
• Be conversant with International Standards such as IEEE, ANSI, ESRA, Safety Codes, GPL Grid Code.
• Ability to multitask and meet deadlines.
• Ability to analyse engineering drawing, designs and using the associated software.
• Knowledge of circuit analysis with the appropriate software- PSS Sinical, PSSE & Etap.
• Conversant with ISO Quality Management System.
• Conversant with GPL Performance Management System (PMS).
• Be conversant with the FACTORIES ACT CHAPTER 95:02, OCCUPATIONAL SAFETY AND HEALTH ACT CHAPTER N0 32 OF 1997, ELECTRICITY SECTOR REFORM ACT CHAPTER 57:01 OF 1999, ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION ACT NO 11 0F 1996 of the laws of Guyana, and the Guyana Power & Light License which include the STANDARD TERMS AND CONDITIONS FOR ELECTRIC SERVICES of October 2010.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering or its equivalent from an accredited institution with at least three (2) years of utility experience relative to the Key Responsible Areas.

OR

• Master of Science Degree in Electrical Engineering or its equivalent from an accredited institution with at least one (1) year utility experience relative to the Key Responsible Areas.