Network Controller

Network Controller

New Plymouth

Why join us? 

At Powerco, you'll be joining one of New Zealand's leading Network Control teams, working alongside experienced Controllers and industry experts in a collaborative environment focused on safety, operational excellence, and continuous improvement.

This role offers the opportunity to further develop your expertise across real-time network operations, advanced distribution management systems (ADMS), and the evolving technologies shaping the future of our industry.

You'll be supported by ongoing training, development, and career opportunities while working in a modern workplace with excellent facilities and a positive team culture.

 About the role

We're looking for a skilled and dedicated Network Controller to join our Network Control Centre team in New Plymouth.

As a vital part of our team, you'll be responsible for the real-time operation of Powerco's electricity network, ensuring the safe, reliable, and efficient delivery of electricity to homes, businesses, and essential services on a 24/7 shift roster. Our Network Controllers are at the heart of network operations, playing a critical role in keeping customers and communities connected.

This is a fast-paced operational role where no two days are the same. You'll coordinate planned outages, respond to network faults and emergencies, support restoration activities during storms and major events, and make critical decisions that directly impact customer supply, network reliability, and safety.

As a member of our Network Control team, you'll work with industry-leading ADMS and OMS technology as we continue to innovate and enhance our network operations. Key responsibilities include ensuring the safety of people, protecting network assets, maintaining system reliability, and coordinating operational communications across the business and with field teams.

If you thrive under pressure, enjoy solving complex problems, and can confidently apply your electrical expertise to make critical decisions, this role is for you. Experience in high-voltage switching, protection systems, network operations, or engineering will help you hit the ground running. We also provide comprehensive training and ongoing development to ensure your continued confidence, competence, and success in the role.

To be the ideal candidate, you'll need:

• A Level 4 or higher Electrical Registration or tertiary qualification in electrical engineering. Experience operating an electricity distribution network would be highly desirable.
• Strong technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with the ability to assess complex network situations and make sound decisions.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to remain calm, confident, and decisive during demanding situations such as storms, network emergencies, and unplanned outages.
• High competence with technology and the ability to quickly learn and operate a range of operational systems.
• A strong commitment to safety, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

It would be great if you have knowledge of:

• Experience within the electricity sector, with electricity distribution experience preferred.
• Practical experience with high-voltage switching, isolation, and access procedures.
• Knowledge of electricity network operating practices and network operating policies.
• Familiarity with SCADA, ADMS, OMS, or other network control and outage management systems.
• Knowledge of electrical protection systems and their application on distribution networks.
• An understanding of risk management principles and electricity industry health and safety requirements.
• Experience responding to, coordinating, or supporting network restoration during faults, storms, or major events.

 Why New Plymouth?

New Plymouth offers an exceptional lifestyle with affordable housing, short commute times, great schools, and world-class outdoor recreation right on your doorstep. With a lower cost of living than many larger centres, your income goes further while still allowing you to build a rewarding career in a critical and growing industry.

 Applications close: Sunday 23rd August 2026

 Join us in shaping the future of energy distribution and making a real difference in our communities. Apply now to become a part of our dynamic team!

Our ability to get the best out of people is what sets Powerco apart. We realise that candidates – especially from underrepresented and neurodiverse backgrounds – often won’t apply for roles unless they meet ALL the criteria. We encourage anyone who shares our passion for connecting communities to apply for any role that aligns to your strengths and interests. We will provide a safe space where you can bring your whole self to work and thrive.  

If you would benefit from support or adjustments in order to participate equitably in the recruitment process, please phone 0800 769372 or email kiaora@powerco.co.nz