Network Planning Analyst

Network Planning Analyst

We have a fantastic opportunity for a Network Planning Analyst to join our Network Planning & Capacity team. As Planning Analyst you will use network modelling tools to undertake a range of analytical tasks to support the business across several areas as noted below:-

Principal Accountabilities:

• Network Model building
• Build new network models on Graphical Falcon using the latest annual gas demand forecasts.
• Assessment of network storage requirements and demand forecasts to produce the offtake capacity figures which support the annual gas booking process.
• Annual validation of the network models to ensure reliability.
• Build of Pressure Regulating Installation (PRI) models using PRISM to forecast capacity utilisation and associated upgrade strategy.
• Formulation of Project Requirement Datasheets for PRI's and liaison with designers; project managers and other involved parties carrying out upgrade work.

Load Enquiries

• Determine the impact of new loads requiring direct connection to the Local Transmission System.
• Understand the impact of increased loads at existing sites.
• Assess the impact of new "unconventional" sources of gas on the Local Transmission System, namely Biomethane, onshore gas fields, land-fill gas, coal-bed methane and shale gas.
• Identification of specific reinforcement and other capacity issues.

Operational Support

• Analysis to provide information for Non Routine Operations, emergencies and Inline Inspections.
• Provision of data to support Major Projects.

Interruption

• Calculation of requirement of interruptible capacity on the network
• Assessment of any interruption bids in terms of capacity offered and the cost of interrupting customers
• Identification of alternative, possibly less costly, reinforcement schemes.

Policy and Regulation

• Attendance at IGEM/Ofgem/Energy Networks Association and Joint Office (UNC modification) workgroups
• Network Planning Procedures - review and update; development of new documents
• Regulatory Reporting - compilation of reports and provision of data; preparation of associated procedures. Regulatory measure development for Local Transmission System assets.

Technical Knowledge & Experience:

• No specific gas knowledge is necessary as full training will be given, however you must have a high level of numerical and mathematical ability. Full training will be provided to ensure a robust understanding of the appropriate systems (Graphical Falcon, PRISM) and techniques used to carry out LTS Planning activities.
• Ability to work to tight timescales whilst maintaining a high level of accuracy and performance.
• Excellent team working, customer orientation and communication skills.

Qualifications required (desirable or essential):

Essential Criteria

• High level numerical and mathematical ability
• Excellent problem solving skills
• Excellent logical and analytical skills
• Excellent communication skills: verbal, written and numerical
• Strong team player, whilst also having the ability to work on their own initiative
• Experienced user of Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook etc.)
• Proactive attitude
• A full UK driving license

Desirable Criteria

• Higher education, preferably to a degree level, in a technical discipline
• Knowledge of appropriate Legislation, NGN Policy, and Procedures
• Knowledge of gas or utility network
• Prior knowledge or experience of using analytical tools such as Graphical Falcon, PRISM

The Package

• Personal Contract - Permanent
• Circa £32k per annum dependent upon skills & experience
• 40 Hours per week
• Bonus - Up to 10% based upon both personal & corporate objectives.
• SSP for first 5 working days, then occupational sick pay
• Competitive Stakeholder pension scheme (5/10)
• 25 days annual leave per annum, plus statutory bank holidays
• Flexible benefits scheme, includes salary sacrifice options such as cycle to work, childcare vouchers, private healthcare, travel insurance, gym membership and much more
• Plus other family friendly policies, maternity/paternity pay, volunteering policy etc..