Energy Market Operations Manager

• Drive BESS market operations & trading strategies in the NEM for optimal performance!
• Permanent Full Time | Competitive package + bonus opportunity
• Sydney Location | Flexible hybrid work model

Ausgrid is on an exciting transformation journey and now is the time to be a part of something big. We are proud to service Australia’s east coast, as a leading business in energy distribution, delivering a safe and reliable electricity supply to more than 1.8 million homes – that’s over four million Australians relying on us every day. 

Our vision is simple; for our communities to have the power for a resilient, affordable net zero future. ​  

We take pride in knowing that the work we collectively achieve today, will transform the world tomorrow. We value a culture of working and living safely, being customer focussed, commercially minded, collaborative, honest, accountable, and respectful. Our values are not just initiatives driven by leaders; they define the way we work.

Your team

The Distributed Energy Storage (DES) team are responsible for the product / commercial development and delivery of community batteries within the Ausgrid network, working closely with local stakeholders, engaging partners (retailers, OEM suppliers, AEMO / AER) as well as alongside the broader Ausgrid group (network pricing, regulation, strategy).

Your new role

As the Energy Market Operations Manager, you will be responsible for the performance of a portfolio of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM). Your main responsibilities will include managing BESS market operations through real-time dispatch, energy trading and forecasting, while managing asset lifecycles, scheduling maintenance, and optimising asset performance.

A key aspect of the role is developing and executing bidding strategies for optimal participation in NEM's energy and ancillary services markets. This includes monitoring market conditions, pricing trends, demand forecasts, and regulatory changes that impact dispatch strategies. You will collaborate with the Distributed Energy Storage Commercial Team to align market positions with financial and operational goals, and ensure accurate market data reconciliation, settlements, and invoicing.

The role requires ensuring compliance with NEM rules and regulations, and submitting reports on performance, forecasting, and market participation to regulatory bodies and stakeholders.

You will work closely with internal teams (asset management, engineering, and maintenance) and external stakeholders (market operator, network providers) to balance operations with commercial objectives. Additionally, you will support business development efforts to expand the BESS portfolio within the NEM.

Energy market risk management is a critical responsibility, requiring the identification and mitigation of risks related to market volatility, system performance, and regulatory changes. You will also develop strategies to address operational risks and take ownership of improving BESS operations.

Finally, you will serve as the primary point of contact for market operations, fostering strong relationships and effective communication with both internal and external stakeholders.

Spark our interest!

Our hiring decisions are not only based on your experience and skills, but your passion, attitude, and alignment to our core values. 

The successful candidate will hold tertiary qualifications in Business, Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, or another closely related field, along with practical experience in the energy sector. At least five years of experience in energy trading, market operations or technical support within the Australian National Electricity Market (NEM) is essential for success in this opportunity. A strong understanding of battery technologies, energy storage system operations and associated control systems is required, as well as a deep familiarity with relevant regulatory frameworks, including AEMO procedures, the National Electricity Rules (NER), and energy market reporting requirements.

Proficiency in using AEMO Portal Applications is necessary, along with experience negotiating and managing energy offtake agreements. The role also requires strong technical skills, including expertise in performance monitoring and data analysis tools. Advanced computer literacy, particularly with Microsoft Office and other systems, is essential. Additionally, excellent interpersonal and negotiation skills, with a proven ability to engage both internal and external stakeholders, will be considered favourably.

Grow with Ausgrid
To continue building on our rich heritage, we actively invest in our people’s development through secondments, onsite training, mentoring circles, e-learning, Australian Graduate School of Management programs (UNSW) and study assistance.

It is through our investment in our people that the average tenure across the business is 14 years and our current turnover is sitting at a market competitive rate of just 3.9%.  

Ausgrid perks
Revel in more than just a competitive salary! Our employees enjoy a dynamic range of market leading support and safety services, wellbeing programs, corporate discounts, and flexibility arrangements in many forms. 

Our people are paramount to the continued success of Ausgrid, therefore celebrating great work is important to us! It’s not just the big wins that count, we have provided our employees the opportunity to applaud peer successes daily through our Amped Recognition Program. But let’s not forget the major milestones! For those ready to exceed expectations, anticipate a nomination for a CEO award at our formal end of year Award gala.

Belonging at Ausgrid  

At Ausgrid, we are powered by diversity. Our customers come from all walks of life, and so do we! We are committed to creating a diverse, respectful, and inclusive workforce, and encourage applications from various backgrounds, including Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, individuals with disability, people from culturally diverse backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQIA+ community.  
 

If you require support with your application/reasonable adjustments for the interview process, please reach out to our dedicated Talent team - recruitment@ausgrid.com.au. 

Application close date: 15th January 2025 (this date is subject to early closure)

Applicants must have full Australian work rights to apply.

Join us in shaping a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone can thrive.