D'Arcy Weil is representing a global energy storage and renewable energy technology company deploying utility-scale battery storage systems across Australia. They are developing substantial battery energy storage projects alongside solar and wind developments, requiring sophisticated grid connection expertise to navigate network connection processes, negotiate access agreements, and coordinate technical requirements across multiple jurisdictions. The business is expanding battery storage deployment across NEM regions with multiple large-scale projects requiring connection to transmission and distribution networks. They require experienced grid connections leadership to manage AEMO engagement, network service provider negotiations, and connection agreement execution supporting their growing project pipeline. They are seeking a Grid Connections Manager to lead connection applications, network negotiations, and technical coordination for battery storage and renewable energy projects. This role offers the opportunity to shape grid connection strategy whilst managing critical path activities for multi-hundred megawatt battery deployments. The Role As Grid Connections Manager, you will lead grid connection processes for utility-scale battery energy storage systems, solar, and wind projects across NEM regions. This role requires deep expertise in connection application procedures, network access frameworks, and technical coordination with AEMO, transmission network service providers (TNSPs), and distribution network service providers (DNSPs). You will manage connection enquiries and applications, negotiate connection agreements and generator performance standards, coordinate network studies and system strength assessments, and engage with network businesses on augmentation requirements. Working closely with development, engineering, and regulatory teams, you will ensure projects achieve timely and cost-effective network connection supporting construction and commissioning schedules. This is a technical leadership role requiring both regulatory knowledge and commercial capability, with direct accountability for grid connection outcomes across a growing portfolio of battery storage and renewable projects. Key Responsibilities Connection Applications & AEMO Engagement: Lead connection enquiry and application processes with AEMO for battery storage, solar, and wind projects Manage connection application documentation including performance standards, technical data, and system design information Coordinate generator performance standard negotiations with AEMO and network service providers Track connection application milestones and manage critical path activities Engage with AEMO on connection processes, system strength frameworks, and grid integration requirements Network Service Provider Negotiations: Negotiate connection agreements with transmission and distribution network service providers Manage commercial discussions on connection costs, augmentation requirements, and cost recovery mechanisms Coordinate connection offers, capital contributions, and contestable works arrangements Engage network businesses on connection design, protection systems, and interface requirements Support resolution of connection disputes and commercial disagreements Technical Coordination: Coordinate network studies including connection impact assessments, system strength studies, and stability analysis Manage technical requirements for battery inverters, protection systems, and grid-forming capabilities Liaise with engineering teams on connection design, substation requirements, and transmission line specifications Support commissioning and testing requirements including grid connection compliance testing Assess system strength remediation options including synchronous condensers and grid-forming inverters Regulatory & Compliance: Ensure compliance with National Electricity Rules, connection frameworks, and technical standards Monitor regulatory developments affecting grid connections including system strength frameworks and access reforms Coordinate registration processes with AEMO for generators and battery storage systems Support technical rule compliance including automatic access standards and negotiated access standards Engage on regulatory consultations and industry working groups Portfolio Management: Manage grid connection activities across multiple concurrent battery storage and renewable projects Provide connection cost estimates and schedule inputs for project feasibility and investment decisions Track connection agreements, milestones, and deliverables across project portfolio Coordinate with development teams on site selection considering grid connection constraints Report on connection progress, risks, and commercial outcomes to senior management Requirements Tertiary qualification in electrical engineering or related technical discipline 7-10 years' experience managing grid connections for renewable energy or battery storage projects in Australia Deep understanding of National Electricity Rules, connection frameworks, and AEMO connection processes Proven track record negotiating connection agreements with transmission and distribution network service providers Strong technical knowledge of power systems, protection schemes, and grid integration requirements Experience with battery energy storage systems including grid-forming inverters and system strength considerations Understanding of generator performance standards, automatic access standards, and negotiated access standards Demonstrated capability managing connection applications across multiple NEM regions Commercial acumen with experience negotiating connection costs, augmentation arrangements, and capital contributions Excellent stakeholder management skills including AEMO, TNSPs, DNSPs, and regulatory bodies Strong project management capability with ability to manage multiple concurrent connection processes Collaborative approach with ability to work across development, engineering, regulatory, and commercial teams Professional Engineer status or eligibility advantageous Experience with system strength frameworks, synchronous condensers, or grid-forming technologies desirable What This Role Offers Lead grid connection strategy for utility-scale battery storage and renewable energy projects Exposure to cutting-edge battery energy storage technology and grid integration challenges Opportunity to shape connection outcomes for multi-hundred megawatt deployments across Australia Career progression within global energy storage and renewable energy technology leader Collaborative, innovative culture focused on energy transition and grid modernisation Flexibility to be based in Melbourne, Sydney, or Perth with hybrid working arrangements Please submit your CV and a professional biography. For Further Information Contact Ivan Pignataro | Director D'Arcy Weil T: 61 3 9999 7409 M: 0416 507 856 E: ivan@darcyweil.com This role is being managed exclusively by Ivan Pignataro at D'Arcy Weil. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.