Communication Network Engineer at Powercor

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Communication Network Engineer
Company: Powercor - Citipower
Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Job Type: On-site
Category: Infrastructure & Networking
Date Posted: 2025-08-01
Experience Level: 5-10 years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

Key Responsibilities: Design, deliver, and maintain effective communications network solutions, provide technical expertise, support business operations, and drive innovation in communications and systems technologies.
Key Skills: Communications Engineering, Asset Management, Data Analytics, System Engineering, Cybersecurity, Network Design, Technical Expertise, Stakeholder Engagement, Automation, Problem Solving, Project Management, Condition Monitoring, Maintenance Planning, Risk Management, Innovation, Collaboration.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

Design and Deliver Communications Network Solutions: Prepare project scopes and capital works, applying in-depth knowledge of communication network systems relevant to electricity network operations.
Provide Technical Expertise and Engineering Support: Contribute to the resolution of complex issues and participate as a subject matter expert in the evaluation and selection of new communications and systems technologies.
Support and Promote Best Practice System and Technology Management: Contribute to extending asset life, improving service availability, and driving cost savings for business communications infrastructure.
Specify, Develop, Integrate, and Manage Implementation of New, Innovative Solutions: Apply technical expertise and experience to meet business needs cost-effectively.
Leverage Data Analytics Expertise: Drive proactive maintenance planning and implement risk management strategies to optimize asset performance and enable informed, data-driven decision-making.
Provide Engineering Support and Guidance to Tactical Operations: Support operational performance and security of the electrical power network.
Change Management Process Awareness: Assess system and operational impacts of proposed system changes and recommend mitigation strategies to minimize business and operational risk.
Stakeholder Engagement: Effectively work with internal stakeholders, service providers, and vendors on technology issues and service delivery and planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong technical background in communications engineering and a proven track record in delivering and maintaining complex network systems. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of asset management principles and experience working with diverse stakeholders.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree qualifications in Electrical and/or Electronic and/or Communications Engineering.

Experience: At least 5 years' experience in the electricity or telecommunications industry and communications experience.

Required Skills:

Subject Matter Expert in at least one communications system (e.g., Supervisory Copper, Optical Fibre, Substation Ethernet, Digital Radio, Cellular Network, Microwave, Mesh Radio networks).
Demonstratable communications network design experience.
Experience with ISO 55001, RAMS, RBI, or equivalent.
Experience with IEC 62443 Cybersecurity framework or equivalent.
Detailed understanding of other communications technologies additional to SME area.
Demonstratable knowledge of the electrical distribution network.
Sound understanding of System Engineering elements and principles.
Advantageous to have knowledge of GIS/PNI Geographic information systems and Google Earth associated native KML/KMZ file usage.
Preferably skilled in developing automation and data processing solutions using Python and Bash scripting.

Preferred Skills:

Knowledge of Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) and Microsoft Office Suite.
Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., JIRA, Asana, Trello).
Experience with Agile methodologies and Scrum frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the role requires a strong technical background, the ideal candidate will also possess excellent communication skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. Familiarity with project management tools and Agile methodologies would be beneficial for this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Demonstrate a strong portfolio of communications network projects, highlighting your technical expertise and problem-solving skills.
Showcase your ability to design, implement, and maintain complex network systems, with a focus on system reliability, performance, and sustainability.
Include case studies that illustrate your understanding of asset management principles and your ability to drive cost savings and improve service availability.

Technical Documentation:

Provide detailed technical documentation for your portfolio projects, including network diagrams, system specifications, and test results.
Include any relevant certifications or professional development courses that demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio for this role will showcase your ability to design and maintain complex network systems, with a focus on system reliability, performance, and sustainability. Include case studies that illustrate your understanding of asset management principles and your ability to drive cost savings and improve service availability.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this role is estimated to be AU$120,000 - AU$140,000 per annum, based on industry standards for a senior communications engineer in Melbourne, Australia. This estimate takes into account the candidate's experience level, the company's size, and regional market conditions.

Benefits:

Health and wellbeing subsidy (up to AU$600 per year).
Paid parental leave of up to 15 weeks for the primary carer.
Flexible working arrangements and remote work options may be available upon request.

Working Hours: Full-time position with standard working hours, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Overtime may be required during peak periods or for on-call rotations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and regional market conditions. The actual salary offered may vary depending on the candidate's experience, skills, and the company's internal compensation structure.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Powercor - Citipower operates in the electricity industry, focusing on delivering electricity to customers through a network of poles and wires.

Company Size: Powercor - Citipower is a large organization with a significant presence in Victoria, Australia. This size allows for diverse career opportunities and extensive resources to support employee growth and development.

Founded: Powercor - Citipower was founded in 1995, with a history of growth and expansion in the electricity industry.

Team Structure:

The Communications Network Engineer will work within a small, high-performing engineering team.
The team collaborates with internal stakeholders and external service providers to deliver effective maintenance and support outcomes.
The role actively contributes to the integration of new technologies, drives operational efficiency, and supports a culture of safety, technical excellence, and innovation across the communications asset portfolio.

Development Methodology:

The organization follows best-practice asset management principles that emphasize lifecycle value, optimisation, and continuous improvement.
The team uses Agile methodologies and Scrum frameworks to manage projects and deliver results efficiently.
The company encourages a culture of learning and development, with opportunities for professional growth and career progression.

Company Website: Powercor - Citipower

📝 Enhancement Note: Powercor - Citipower's large size and extensive resources provide employees with diverse career opportunities and support for professional growth and development. The company's history of growth and expansion in the electricity industry demonstrates a commitment to long-term success and stability.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior Communications Engineer - Responsible for designing, delivering, and maintaining complex network systems, providing technical expertise, and driving innovation in communications and systems technologies.

Reporting Structure: The Communications Network Engineer reports directly to the Manager, Communications Engineering.

Technical Impact: The role has a significant impact on the performance, reliability, and security of the electrical power network. The engineer's work directly influences the quality of service provided to customers and the efficiency of network operations.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Develop expertise in specific communications systems or technologies, becoming a subject matter expert in your field.
Team Leadership: Progress to a team leadership role, managing a team of communications engineers and driving the strategic direction of the communications asset portfolio.
Architecture and Strategy: Contribute to the development of network architecture and strategy, working closely with senior leadership to define the future of the communications infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Communications Network Engineer offers significant opportunities for technical growth and career progression. With a strong focus on innovation and continuous improvement, the ideal candidate will be eager to develop their skills and take on new challenges.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Powercor - Citipower's offices are modern, collaborative workspaces designed to support teamwork and innovation.

Office Location(s): The primary office for this role is located in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. Other offices are located across regional and rural Victoria.

Workspace Context:

The Communications Network Engineer will work in a dedicated office space, equipped with the necessary tools and resources to perform their job effectively.
The workspace is designed to facilitate collaboration and communication with team members, internal stakeholders, and external service providers.
The company provides flexible working arrangements and remote work options, allowing employees to balance their work and personal lives effectively.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with standard working hours, Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Overtime may be required during peak periods or for on-call rotations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Powercor - Citipower's modern, collaborative workspaces are designed to support teamwork and innovation. The company's flexible working arrangements and remote work options demonstrate a commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

Phone Screen: A brief phone call to discuss your experience, qualifications, and career goals.
Technical Assessment: A hands-on technical assessment, focusing on your knowledge of communications systems, network design, and problem-solving skills.
Behavioral Interview: An in-depth interview to assess your fit with the company culture, communication skills, and ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
Final Interview: A meeting with the hiring manager or a panel of senior leaders to discuss your career aspirations, technical expertise, and cultural fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

Highlight your portfolio projects that demonstrate your technical expertise in communications network design, implementation, and maintenance.
Include case studies that illustrate your understanding of asset management principles and your ability to drive cost savings and improve service availability.
Showcase your ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including internal teams, external service providers, and vendors.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

Brush up on your knowledge of communications systems, network design principles, and problem-solving techniques.
Familiarize yourself with Powercor - Citipower's company culture, values, and mission.
Prepare questions to ask the interview panel about the role, team dynamics, and career growth opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for the Communications Network Engineer role is designed to assess your technical expertise, cultural fit, and ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders. By preparing thoroughly and showcasing your portfolio projects, you can demonstrate your value and increase your chances of success.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Communications Systems:

Supervisory Copper, Optical Fibre, Substation Ethernet, Digital Radio, Cellular Network, Microwave, Mesh Radio networks.
SCADA, automation, and telemetry systems.
Radio, fibre optic, and IP-based infrastructure.

Network Design Tools:

GIS/PNI Geographic information systems and Google Earth associated native KML/KMZ file usage.
Specialized network design software (e.g., AutoCAD, Visio, or similar tools).

Programming Languages:

Python and Bash scripting for automation and data processing solutions.
Familiarity with SQL and databases for data management and analysis.

📝 Enhancement Note: The ideal candidate will have a strong background in communications systems, network design, and programming. Familiarity with Powercor - Citipower's technology stack and infrastructure will be beneficial for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Communications Engineering Values:

Technical Excellence: Pursue continuous learning and improvement in communications engineering principles and best practices.
Innovation: Embrace new technologies and approaches to drive operational efficiency and improve service quality.
Collaboration: Work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including internal teams, external service providers, and vendors, to deliver results and achieve common goals.
Safety: Prioritize safety in all aspects of network design, implementation, and maintenance to ensure the well-being of employees, customers, and the community.

Collaboration Style:

Cross-Functional Teamwork: Collaborate with internal stakeholders, including network control centre, dispatch room, and field operations staff, to support operational performance and security of the electrical power network.
Stakeholder Engagement: Engage with external service providers and vendors to manage technology issues, service delivery, and planning.
Knowledge Sharing: Share your expertise and experience with team members, peers, and mentors to support a culture of learning and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Powercor - Citipower's team culture emphasizes technical excellence, innovation, collaboration, and safety. The ideal candidate will be eager to embrace these values and contribute to a positive, supportive work environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

System Integration: Design and implement complex network systems that integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure and third-party services.
Cybersecurity: Ensure the security and resilience of communications networks against emerging threats and vulnerabilities.
Regulatory Compliance: Stay up-to-date with industry regulations and standards, and ensure network design and operation comply with relevant guidelines.
Performance Optimization: Continuously monitor and optimize network performance to meet the growing demands of customers and the business.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Specialization: Develop expertise in specific communications systems or technologies, becoming a subject matter expert in your field.
Leadership Development: Participate in leadership development programs and mentoring opportunities to prepare for team leadership roles.
Architecture and Strategy: Contribute to the development of network architecture and strategy, working closely with senior leadership to define the future of the communications infrastructure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of Communications Network Engineer presents numerous technical challenges and growth opportunities. By embracing these challenges and seeking out learning and development opportunities, the ideal candidate can drive their career forward and make a significant impact on the organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Network Design: Describe your approach to designing complex network systems, and provide examples of your experience with network design tools and software.
Problem Solving: Walk through a complex network problem you've encountered and explain how you diagnosed, addressed, and resolved the issue.
Cybersecurity: Discuss your understanding of cybersecurity principles and how you've applied them to protect communications networks in previous roles.

Company & Culture Questions:

Company Culture: Describe what aspects of Powercor - Citipower's company culture appeal to you and how you think you can contribute to a positive work environment.
Team Dynamics: Explain how you've worked effectively with diverse teams in previous roles and how you would approach team dynamics at Powercor - Citipower.
Career Growth: Discuss your long-term career goals and how you see this role fitting into your professional development plan.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

Storytelling: Use storytelling techniques to engage the interview panel and highlight the impact of your portfolio projects on network performance, reliability, and customer satisfaction.
Visual Aids: Prepare visual aids, such as diagrams, charts, and case studies, to support your portfolio presentation and illustrate your technical expertise.
Q&A: Anticipate the interview panel's questions and prepare thoughtful, concise responses that demonstrate your understanding of the role and the company's values.

📝 Enhancement Note: By preparing thoroughly and showcasing your technical expertise, portfolio projects, and cultural fit, you can demonstrate your value and increase your chances of success in the interview process.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Communications Network Engineer position:

Update Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and qualifications for this role. Include specific examples of your portfolio projects and technical achievements.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Ensure your portfolio showcases your technical expertise in communications network design, implementation, and maintenance. Include case studies that illustrate your understanding of asset management principles and your ability to drive cost savings and improve service availability.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with Powercor - Citipower's company culture, values, and mission. Prepare questions to ask the interview panel about the role, team dynamics, and career growth opportunities.
Prepare for the Interview: Brush up on your knowledge of communications systems, network design principles, and problem-solving techniques. Prepare questions to ask the interview panel about the role, team dynamics, and career growth opportunities.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and web technology industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Communication Network Engineer