Senior / Principal FACTS System Design Consultant Flex Grid

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior / Principal FACTS System Design Consultant Flex Grid

Company: DNV

Location: Dresden, Saxony, Germany

Job Type: Full time

Category: Engineering & Technical Consulting (Energy Sector)

Date Posted: March 12, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Senior/Principal)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is crucial for advancing the energy transition by designing and implementing Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) and High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) technologies.

• Focuses on providing expert technical advisory and owner's engineering services to a diverse client base within the electricity transmission sector.

• Involves leading and contributing to complex system studies, equipment specification, and the overall design of FACTS and AC substations.

• Requires strong business development acumen to build client relationships and identify new project opportunities in the evolving energy market.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a Senior/Principal level, implying significant autonomy, client-facing responsibilities, and a need for strategic thinking beyond pure technical execution. The "Flex Grid" and "FACTS" focus strongly suggests a need for deep expertise in power systems engineering, particularly in grid flexibility and stability solutions.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct conceptual designs for FACTS and AC transmission systems, including detailed feasibility studies.

• Assess and optimize CAPEX, OPEX, energy losses, system availability, and constructability for customer-specific transmission needs.

• Lead and/or review electrical system studies, develop equipment design specifications, and define general arrangements for FACTS systems and associated substations.

• Perform, lead, or review dynamic modeling and stability analysis simulations for complex FACTS system integration.

• Develop and scrutinize control and protection strategies for multi-terminal FACTS projects, ensuring grid code compliance and effective fault management.

• Prepare technical specifications, actively participate in tender processes, and provide expert support during commissioning tests (FAT/SAT).

• Deliver high-quality technical reports, proposals, and commercial offers to clients, clearly articulating technical solutions and business value.

• Collaborate with internal DNV teams on system studies, electrical engineering, offshore wind integration, permitting, environmental impact analysis, and market risk assessments.

• Contribute to the development of DNV's service portfolio and stay abreast of market trends in FACTS and HVDC technologies.

• Represent DNV at industry conferences, publish thought leadership content, and engage in relevant standardization initiatives (e.g., IEEE, IEC, CIGRE).

• Build and maintain strong relationships with new and existing customers, including FACTS Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs).

• Coach and mentor junior consultants, fostering their technical development and career growth within DNV.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of deep technical expertise, project leadership, client engagement, and business development. The emphasis on mentoring and representation at conferences indicates a senior role with leadership expectations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in FACTS technology and power transmission projects, covering various development phases from conceptual design to commissioning.

Required Skills:

• FACTS Technology Expertise: Deep understanding of various FACTS devices (e.g., SVC, STATCOM, TCSC, UPFC), their principles of operation, and application in grid stability and power flow control.

• Power System Studies: Proficiency in conducting and analyzing system studies, including load flow, short circuit, dynamic stability, and transient analysis, using industry-standard software.

• Electrical System Design: Experience in designing AC substations and transmission systems, including equipment specification (transformers, switchgear, protection relays, etc.) and general arrangement.

• Control and Protection Systems: Strong knowledge of converter control schemes, protection coordination, and grid code compliance requirements for transmission networks.

• Technical Advisory & Engineering: Proven ability to provide technical advisory services, owner's engineering, and independent engineering for transmission infrastructure projects.

• Software Proficiency: Familiarity with power system simulation software such as PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, or similar.

• Communication & Reporting: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to produce clear, concise, and high-quality technical reports and proposals for diverse audiences.

• Problem-Solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on developing practical and effective solutions.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with HVDC technology and its integration with FACTS.

• Familiarity with offshore wind grid integration challenges and solutions.

• Knowledge of permitting processes, environmental impact assessments, and energy markets.

• Experience in business development, client relationship management, and proposal writing.

• Demonstrated experience in coaching, mentoring, and leading technical teams.

• Active participation in industry standards development bodies (IEEE, IEC, CIGRE).

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior / Principal" designation strongly suggests that candidates with over 10 years of specialized experience, particularly those with a track record of leading major projects or contributing to industry standards, would be highly competitive. The inclusion of specific software like PSS/E and PSCAD is critical for ATS screening.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 detailed case studies of FACTS or significant AC transmission system design projects.

• Design Contributions: Clearly articulate your specific role and contributions to the conceptual design, feasibility studies, and detailed engineering phases of these projects.

• System Study Examples: Include examples of complex system studies performed, highlighting the methodologies used, software employed, and key findings/recommendations.

• Technical Specifications: Present examples of equipment design specifications or technical requirements documents you have authored or significantly contributed to.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Demonstrate how you have tackled challenging grid integration issues, control strategy development, or grid code compliance problems.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Optimization: Evidence of involvement in optimizing design workflows, study processes, or client engagement procedures to improve efficiency and quality.

• Methodology Development: Examples of contributions to developing or refining technical methodologies for system studies, control system design, or risk assessment.

• Quality Assurance: Demonstrate understanding and application of quality assurance processes in technical deliverables, such as peer reviews or internal validation steps.

📝 Enhancement Note: For senior and principal roles, the portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate strategic thinking, leadership in problem-solving, and a clear understanding of the end-to-end project lifecycle and its associated risks and optimizations. The emphasis should be on impact and tangible results.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Based on DNV's global presence, the seniority of the role (Senior/Principal), and the specialized nature of FACTS technology consulting, a competitive salary range for Dresden, Germany, would typically fall between €80,000 and €120,000 annually. This estimate considers the cost of living in Dresden, industry benchmarks for specialized engineering consultants in Germany, and the typical compensation structure for senior roles in large, international technical consulting firms. Specific compensation will be determined by the candidate's experience, qualifications, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Robust medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Generous company contributions to a pension or retirement fund.

• Generous Paid Time Off: Ample vacation days, public holidays, and sick leave.

• Professional Development: Access to training, conferences, and opportunities for further certifications.

• Flexible Work Arrangements: Hybrid work model with potential for remote work within Germany.

• International Mobility: Opportunities to work on global projects and potentially relocate within DNV's international offices.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and professional well-being.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual bonuses based on individual and company performance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time employment is typically 40 hours per week.

• The role offers flexibility within a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work. Specific daily hours can often be adjusted in consultation with the team lead to accommodate project needs and personal schedules, provided project deadlines and client commitments are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Senior/Principal role in Germany with DNV, benefits are expected to be comprehensive, reflecting the company's standing as a global leader. The salary estimate is based on typical ranges for highly specialized engineering consultants in major German cities and DNV's known compensation practices for senior technical roles.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy, Renewables, Maritime, and Engineering Consulting. DNV is a leading international accredited registrar and classification society, providing a wide range of services in the energy sector, with a strong focus on the energy transition, grid modernization, and renewable energy integration.

Company Size: DNV is a large global organization with over 12,000 employees worldwide. This scale provides stability, extensive resources, and opportunities for international collaboration.

Founded: 1864. With a long history, DNV has established itself as a trusted authority and expert in risk management, technical assurance, and advisory services across various industries.

Team Structure:

• The role is within the FlexGrid venture, a specialized unit focused on scaling up HVDC and FACTS technologies.

• The team likely comprises experts in power systems engineering, electrical engineering, system studies, and project management.

• Collaboration will be cross-functional, involving colleagues from DNV's broad network in areas like offshore wind, grid integration, permitting, environmental analysis, and market risk.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on rigorous analysis, simulation, and evidence-based recommendations.

• Collaborative Approach: Fostering cross-functional teamwork and knowledge sharing to solve complex challenges.

• Client-Centric Solutions: Tailoring services and designs to meet specific customer needs and project objectives.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Actively seeking new technologies, methodologies, and service offerings to stay at the forefront of the energy transition.

Company Website: https://www.dnv.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: DNV's reputation as a global leader in technical assurance and advisory services means the company culture likely emphasizes technical excellence, integrity, and a commitment to sustainability and safety. The FlexGrid venture suggests an innovative and forward-thinking environment focused on critical energy infrastructure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior/Principal Consultant. This level signifies a high degree of technical expertise, significant project leadership experience, and a capacity for strategic client engagement and business development. Professionals at this level are expected to be subject matter experts, capable of independently managing complex projects, mentoring junior staff, and contributing to the intellectual capital of the organization.

Reporting Structure: The role will likely report to a Team Lead or Manager within the FlexGrid venture or a broader Power Systems advisory unit. This manager will oversee project assignments, performance reviews, and career development alongside senior leadership within DNV's energy advisory services.

Operations Impact: This role directly impacts the reliability, sustainability, and affordability of electricity networks by enabling the integration of renewable energy sources and improving grid flexibility through advanced FACTS and HVDC technologies. The consultant's work will influence critical infrastructure decisions for utilities, system operators, and developers, contributing significantly to the global energy transition.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific FACTS technologies, HVDC systems, or emerging grid solutions.

• Leadership Development: Progress into roles with greater project management responsibility, team leadership, or client relationship management.

• Business Development: Transition into roles focused on strategic account management, market expansion, and sales leadership.

• Thought Leadership: Become a recognized expert through publications, conference presentations, and participation in industry working groups and standardization committees.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects and potentially relocate to other DNV offices worldwide.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Senior/Principal designation is key. Growth here typically involves moving towards principal engineer, technical director, or business development leadership roles, rather than purely hierarchical management unless desired. The impact is on shaping energy infrastructure globally.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is hybrid, with a preference for proximity to DNV offices in Arnhem (Netherlands), London, Bristol, Glasgow, Oslo, Gothenburg, or Dresden. This implies a modern office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused individual work.

Office Location(s): Dresden, Germany, is a primary location mentioned. Other European office locations provide flexibility for candidates across different regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Spaces: Offices will likely feature meeting rooms, breakout areas, and open-plan zones conducive to team discussions and brainstorming.

• Technology Infrastructure: Access to high-performance computing for simulations, robust network connectivity, and standard office productivity software.

• Knowledge Sharing: Opportunities to engage with a vast network of DNV experts through internal platforms, seminars, and project collaborations.

• Focused Work: Dedicated spaces or quiet zones for concentrated technical analysis and report writing.

Work Schedule:

• The standard 40-hour work week provides a foundation, but project demands may necessitate occasional extended hours to meet critical deadlines or client needs.

• The hybrid model offers flexibility, allowing employees to balance office presence with remote work, fostering autonomy and work-life integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature and preference for office proximity suggest a balance between structured collaboration and individual autonomy. The emphasis on global projects implies a dynamic and potentially international work environment even within a local office.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications for basic qualifications and alignment with the role's core requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions with senior engineers or the hiring manager focusing on your technical expertise in FACTS, power system studies, and project experience. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio.

• Case Study/Problem-Solving Exercise: You may be given a technical challenge or a hypothetical project scenario to analyze and propose solutions for, either in advance or during the interview. This assesses your practical application of knowledge and problem-solving approach.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: This stage assesses your communication skills, teamwork, leadership potential, and alignment with DNV's values. Questions may focus on how you handle challenges, collaborate with diverse teams, and mentor junior staff.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or director to discuss strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and final offer details.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state your specific contributions and, where possible, quantify the impact (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, risk reduction).

• Highlight Problem-Solving: For each case study, describe the problem, your approach to solving it, the tools and methodologies used, and the ultimate outcome.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Select projects that demonstrate your expertise in FACTS design, system studies, control strategies, and grid integration.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experience relevant to DNV's work in energy transition, HVDC, and grid flexibility.

• Clarity and Conciseness: Ensure your portfolio is well-organized, easy to navigate, and presents information clearly and concisely. Be ready to walk through specific examples during interviews.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Core Concepts: Refresh your knowledge of power system fundamentals, FACTS technologies, dynamic modeling, and grid codes.

• Practice Simulation Scenarios: If possible, practice analyzing common grid stability issues or FACTS control challenges using simulation software.

• Develop Case Study Narratives: Prepare concise, compelling stories for your most impactful projects, focusing on the problem, your solution, and the results.

• Research DNV: Understand DNV's mission, values, recent projects, and their role in the energy transition.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is critical for senior/principal roles. Candidates should be ready to present detailed examples of their work and discuss their strategic thinking behind technical decisions. The interview process will likely be rigorous, testing both technical depth and leadership potential.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Power System Simulation Software: PSS/E, PSCAD, PowerFactory DIgSILENT, ETAP, NEPLAN, or similar. Proficiency in at least one is essential for system studies, dynamic modeling, and stability analysis.

• CAD/Drawing Software: AutoCAD, MicroStation, or similar for developing general arrangements and electrical schematics.

• Data Analysis & Visualization Tools: Microsoft Excel (advanced), potentially Python for scripting/analysis, Power BI or Tableau for reporting and dashboard creation.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Simulation Post-Processing Tools: Software utilities or custom scripts for analyzing large simulation datasets.

• Reporting Platforms: Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint) for comprehensive technical reports and client presentations.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM tools for client management and business development tracking (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) may be beneficial, though not core to the technical role.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like MS Project, Jira, or Asana for managing project timelines and tasks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical tools are power system simulation software. Expertise in these is non-negotiable and will be a primary focus during technical interviews and portfolio reviews.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in technical advice and client interactions.

• Excellence: Striving for technical accuracy, innovation, and delivering high-quality solutions.

• Passion for Energy Transition: A genuine commitment to driving sustainable energy solutions and mitigating climate change.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where knowledge is shared, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

• Safety & Reliability: Prioritizing the safety and reliability of energy systems in all design and advisory activities.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with diverse teams across DNV (e.g., offshore wind, environmental, market analysis) to provide holistic solutions.

• Client Partnership: Building trust and long-term relationships by understanding client needs and delivering value-driven advice.

• Knowledge Sharing: Participating in internal technical forums, "lunch & learns," and mentoring junior colleagues to disseminate expertise.

• Open Communication: Encouraging candid feedback and constructive dialogue to continuously improve processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: DNV's strong reputation is built on its technical expertise and integrity. The culture likely reflects a commitment to precision, thoroughness, and a shared mission to advance sustainable energy solutions.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving Grid Technologies: Keeping pace with advancements in FACTS, HVDC, energy storage, and grid management technologies.

• Complex Grid Integration: Addressing the technical challenges of integrating intermittent renewable energy sources into existing power grids.

• Balancing Client Needs and Technical Constraints: Navigating diverse client expectations, project budgets, and regulatory requirements while ensuring technical feasibility and reliability.

• Global Project Diversity: Adapting to different regulatory frameworks, grid characteristics, and market conditions across international projects.

• Business Development: Expanding the client base and securing new projects in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Training: Access to internal and external training programs on cutting-edge FACTS, HVDC, and power system analysis techniques.

• Industry Conferences & Standards: Opportunities to attend and present at leading industry events (e.g., CIGRE, IEEE) and contribute to standardization committees.

• Mentorship Programs: Guidance from senior experts within DNV to foster technical and career growth.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on projects that span multiple DNV service areas, broadening your understanding of the energy value chain.

• Leadership Pathways: Development programs designed to prepare individuals for leadership roles in project management, team leadership, or business development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is ideal for someone passionate about the technical challenges of the energy transition. The growth opportunities are significant, particularly for those who want to become leading experts and influencers in the field of grid modernization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex FACTS system design or integration challenge you faced. What was the problem, your approach, the tools you used, and the outcome?" Focus on detailing your technical methodology, problem-solving process, and the specific impact of your work.

• "How would you approach a feasibility study for a new FACTS installation to improve grid stability in a region with high renewable penetration?" Prepare to outline your methodology, key considerations (technical, economic, regulatory), and the types of analyses you would perform.

• "Discuss your experience with grid code compliance for FACTS devices. What are the key challenges, and how do you ensure compliance?" Be ready to speak about specific grid code requirements and your strategies for meeting them.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why DNV, and why this role specifically?" Research DNV's mission, values, and recent work in the energy transition. Connect your career goals and passion for FACTS technology to DNV's objectives.

• "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers?" Provide examples of your mentoring style, focusing on guiding technical development and fostering a collaborative spirit.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Select Key Projects: Choose 3-5 projects that best showcase your expertise in FACTS design, system studies, and relevant problem-solving.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly articulate: The Challenge, Your Role & Approach, The Solution/Design, The Tools/Methodologies Used, and The Results/Impact.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your work (e.g., percentage improvement in stability, reduction in losses, cost savings).

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your specific contributions, design choices, and the technical nuances of your projects.

• Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: Explain not just what you did, but why you made certain technical decisions and how they aligned with project goals and client objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily rely on demonstrating deep technical expertise and the ability to apply it to real-world challenges. A well-prepared and insightful portfolio presentation is crucial for success at this Senior/Principal level.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided Oracle Cloud portal link.

• Curate Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with FACTS technology, power system studies, grid integration, and relevant software tools (e.g., PSS/E, PSCAD). Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Gather detailed case studies of your most relevant FACTS and power system design projects. Ensure each case study clearly outlines the problem, your specific role and contributions, the methodologies and tools used, and the quantifiable outcomes.

• Research DNV: Familiarize yourself with DNV's mission, values, recent projects in the energy transition, and their expertise in FACTS and HVDC technologies.

• Practice Your Pitch: Prepare to articulate your experience concisely, focusing on your impact and problem-solving capabilities, especially when discussing your portfolio.

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