Senior / Principal HVDC System Design Consultant Flex Grid

📍 Job Overview

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

Company: DNV

Location: Dresden, Saxony, Germany

Job Type: Full time

Category: Energy & Utilities / Engineering / Consulting

Date Posted: March 12, 2026

Experience Level: Senior / Principal (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the conceptual design and feasibility studies for complex HVDC and AC transmission systems, ensuring alignment with customer requirements and industry best practices in the energy transition.

• Lead and execute advanced system studies, including dynamic modeling and stability analysis, to optimize the performance and reliability of HVDC infrastructure.

• Develop and review detailed equipment specifications and control strategies for HVDC substations and multi-terminal projects, focusing on converter control and fault management.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams on national and international projects, contributing expertise in electrical engineering, system integration, and grid code compliance.

• Engage in business development activities, client relationship management, and represent DNV at industry conferences and standardization bodies to foster innovation and market leadership.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior/Principal level within DNV's specialized FlexGrid venture, indicating a significant level of responsibility, technical leadership, and client-facing engagement. The emphasis on HVDC and FACTS technologies suggests a focus on grid modernization and renewable energy integration.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive conceptual design and feasibility studies for HVDC and AC transmission systems, meticulously assessing CAPEX, OPEX, availability, losses, and constructability to meet diverse customer needs.

• Lead the development and review of electrical system studies, detailed equipment design specifications, and general arrangements for HVDC systems and substations.

• Perform, lead, or review advanced simulations and system studies, including dynamic modeling and stability analysis specifically for HVDC systems and their integration into existing grids.

• Develop and critically review control and protection strategies for complex HVDC multi-terminal projects, ensuring robust fault management and strict adherence to grid code compliance.

• Prepare detailed technical specifications, actively support tender processes, and represent DNV during commissioning tests (FAT/SAT), verifying that all solutions meet stringent customer and regulatory requirements.

• Deliver high-quality, insightful technical reports and compelling commercial offers to clients, clearly articulating complex technical concepts and project value.

• Contribute to the ongoing development of DNV's service portfolio within the FlexGrid venture, actively monitoring market trends and contributing to annual strategic planning.

• Represent DNV at key industry conferences, publish thought leadership content, and actively participate in standardization initiatives (e.g., IEEE, IEC, CIGRE) to influence industry direction.

• Build and nurture lasting relationships with new and existing customers through proactive business development efforts, identifying opportunities for DNV's expertise.

• Coach and mentor junior consultants, guiding their technical career growth and fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement within the HVDC team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of deep technical expertise in HVDC system design, project leadership, client engagement, and business development, characteristic of a senior or principal consultant role. The inclusion of coaching and service portfolio development points towards leadership expectations beyond individual project contributions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Experience:

• Minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in the design, analysis, and implementation of High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission systems.

Required Skills:

• Deep technical expertise in HVDC system design principles, including converter technologies (LCC, VSC), grid integration challenges, and AC/DC system interaction.

• Proficient in conducting and interpreting complex system studies, including steady-state analysis, dynamic stability, short-circuit calculations, and power quality assessments.

• Strong understanding of HVDC control systems, protection schemes, multi-terminal configurations, and grid code compliance requirements for different regions.

• Experience with industry-standard HVDC simulation software such as PSS/E, PSCAD, PSLF, or similar tools for dynamic modeling and analysis.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with a demonstrated ability to develop innovative and practical solutions for complex transmission challenges.

• Strong client-facing and communication skills, with the ability to articulate technical concepts clearly and persuasively to diverse audiences, including senior management and technical experts.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Flexible AC Transmission Systems (FACTS) technologies and their integration with HVDC systems.

• Familiarity with offshore wind farm grid integration and associated HVDC export cable systems.

• Knowledge of permitting processes, environmental impact assessments, and regulatory frameworks relevant to large-scale transmission projects.

• Experience in developing technical specifications for HVDC equipment (converters, transformers, switchgear, cables) and substations.

• Familiarity with tender evaluation processes and contract negotiation for major electrical infrastructure projects.

• Active participation in industry standardization committees (e.g., CIGRE, IEEE, IEC) or working groups.

• Experience in coaching, mentoring, or leading junior engineering staff.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement is intentionally set at 7-10+ years to reflect the "Senior / Principal" title, implying a need for substantial independent contribution and potential leadership. The preferred skills list adds depth by including related technologies (FACTS, offshore wind) and broader project lifecycle elements (permitting, tenders).

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable experience in developing and executing complex HVDC system design projects, showcasing a range of technical challenges and solutions.

• Case studies detailing feasibility studies, conceptual designs, and detailed engineering for HVDC substations or transmission links, highlighting the impact of your contributions.

• Evidence of leading or significantly contributing to system studies, including dynamic modeling and stability analysis, with clear documentation of methodologies and results.

• Examples of developing or reviewing control and protection strategies for HVDC systems, particularly for multi-terminal configurations or challenging grid integration scenarios.

Process Documentation:

• Detailed documentation of your design processes for HVDC systems, from initial concept through to detailed engineering and validation.

• Workflow examples illustrating how you approach system studies, including data acquisition, modeling, simulation, analysis, and reporting phases, emphasizing efficiency and accuracy.

• Examples of process improvements you have implemented in HVDC design or analysis, leading to enhanced performance, reduced costs, or improved reliability.

• Documentation of your experience in developing or implementing standard operating procedures for HVDC system design, testing, or commissioning.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior/principal role, the portfolio should not just list projects but demonstrate strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and a deep understanding of the design and implementation processes within HVDC systems. It should showcase leadership in technical decision-making and process optimization.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Competitive pension scheme with employer contributions.

• Generous paid time off (holidays and vacation days) in accordance with German labor law and company policy.

• Opportunities for professional development, including training courses, certifications, and conference attendance.

• Contribution to health insurance and potential for additional private health coverage options.

• Flexible working arrangements, including hybrid work options and potential for remote work within Germany.

• Travel expenses and accommodation covered for business travel related to projects or client meetings.

• Access to DNV's global network of experts and resources for continuous learning and collaboration.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday.

• DNV generally offers flexibility within these hours, allowing for adjustments based on project needs and personal circumstances, in line with German labor regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate based on industry benchmarks for senior power systems engineers with HVDC specialization in Germany. DNV, as a reputable international company, is expected to offer a comprehensive benefits package aligned with German employment standards and competitive for the industry.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Energy & Utilities, Consulting, Technical Assurance & Advisory

Company Size: Large (10,000+ employees globally)

Founded: 1896

Company Description: DNV is a global independent energy, assurance and risk management expert. Driven by our purpose to safeguard life, property and the environment, we enable our customers to advance the safety and sustainability of their business. DNV operates in more than 100 countries and has 16,000 employees. DNV’s energy business is a leading provider of technical advisory, verification, risk management, and certification services to the global energy industry, including renewables, grids, and fossil fuels.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within DNV's FlexGrid venture, a specialized unit focused on scaling up HVDC and FACTS technologies.

• The team likely comprises a mix of senior and principal consultants, project managers, system analysts, and junior engineers with expertise in power systems, HVDC, and related fields.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a direct line to a Business Area Manager or Head of Department for Grid Technologies, with project-specific reporting lines to project managers.

Methodology:

• DNV emphasizes a data-driven and evidence-based approach to all its advisory and assurance services.

• Workflows often involve rigorous technical analysis, system modeling, risk assessment, and independent verification.

• Collaboration and knowledge sharing are fundamental, supported by internal platforms and a culture that encourages open discussion of technical challenges.

• A strong focus on continuous improvement and staying abreast of technological advancements and regulatory changes within the energy sector.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: DNV's long history and global presence signify stability and deep industry expertise. The "FlexGrid" venture highlights a strategic focus on key growth areas in the energy transition, indicating an innovative and forward-thinking environment within a well-established organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior / Principal Consultant

This level signifies a highly experienced professional with deep specialization in a niche technical area (HVDC System Design). Responsibilities extend beyond individual technical contributions to include technical leadership, project management oversight, client relationship management, business development, and mentoring junior staff. The role is expected to be a recognized expert within the company and potentially the industry.

Reporting Structure:

• Typically reports to a Director, Business Area Manager, or Head of Department within the Grid Technology or Power Systems division.

• Will likely work closely with Project Managers on specific client engagements and may lead teams of engineers on larger projects.

Operations Impact:

• Directly influences the design and successful implementation of critical energy infrastructure projects, contributing significantly to grid stability, reliability, and the integration of renewable energy sources.

• Plays a key role in shaping DNV's technical advisory services and expanding its market presence in the growing HVDC sector.

• Contributes to client decision-making processes, helping them to optimize their investments and achieve their strategic goals related to transmission infrastructure.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced HVDC configurations (e.g., multi-terminal, meshed networks, DC circuit breakers) or related fields like FACTS or offshore grid integration.

• Leadership Development: Transition into roles with greater management responsibility, such as leading larger teams, managing business units, or taking on senior client executive roles.

• Business Development & Client Management: Focus on growing DNV's client base and revenue within the HVDC sector, potentially leading to roles like Key Account Manager or Commercial Director.

• Subject Matter Expertise: Become a globally recognized expert, representing DNV at high-profile international forums, leading major research initiatives, or contributing to influential industry standards.

• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Expand knowledge into adjacent areas such as energy storage, grid automation, market analysis, or policy consulting to offer more holistic solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior / Principal" designation implies a career trajectory focused on technical mastery, leadership, and business impact. Growth opportunities are geared towards expanding influence within the company and the industry, rather than purely hierarchical advancement.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type:

Office Location(s):

• While the preferred location is near Arnhem (Netherlands), alternative European offices are mentioned, including Dresden (Germany), London, Bristol, Glasgow (UK), Oslo (Norway), and Gothenburg (Sweden).

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a culture that encourages open communication and knowledge sharing among colleagues, with opportunities to engage with experts across various disciplines within DNV. Regular team meetings, project discussions, and internal "lunch & learn" sessions foster this environment.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to high-performance computing resources, specialized power system analysis software (e.g., PSS/E, PSCAD), and robust internal IT infrastructure for project management, document control, and communication will be standard.

• Team Interaction: Frequent interaction with project teams, clients, and other DNV experts through virtual meetings, site visits, and in-person discussions. The hybrid work model allows for a balance between remote focused work and in-office collaboration.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility often provided to manage workloads and personal commitments, adhering to German labor laws. This flexibility is crucial for accommodating project deadlines, client availability, and potential international travel.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid nature of the work environment, coupled with the mention of specific European office locations, offers flexibility for candidates. The emphasis on collaboration and access to specialized tools is critical for a role requiring complex technical analysis and client interaction.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and cover letter by HR and the hiring manager to assess basic qualifications and alignment with the role requirements.

• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focused on your HVDC system design expertise, experience with specific software tools, understanding of system studies, control strategies, and grid integration challenges. Expect scenario-based questions and discussions about past projects.

• Case Study / Technical Challenge: You may be asked to analyze a specific HVDC system design problem or present a detailed overview of a complex project from your portfolio. This assesses your problem-solving approach, technical depth, and communication skills.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Questions designed to understand your working style, collaboration skills, leadership potential, and how you align with DNV's values and culture. This might involve discussions around mentoring, business development, and handling challenging project situations.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader or director, focusing on strategic alignment, long-term career aspirations, and overall suitability for the Senior/Principal level.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Focus on 2-4 of your most impactful and relevant HVDC projects. Highlight complexity, innovation, and your specific contributions.

• Structure Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline the problem, your approach/methodology, the tools used, the solutions implemented, and the measurable results or impact (e.g., improved efficiency, cost savings, enhanced reliability).

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the scale and success of your work (e.g., MW/GW capacity designed, percentage reduction in losses, CAPEX/OPEX impact).

• Showcase Technical Breadth: Include examples that demonstrate your expertise across different aspects of HVDC design, such as feasibility studies, dynamic modeling, control system design, and commissioning.

• Highlight Leadership & Mentoring: If applicable, include examples where you led a team, mentored junior engineers, or played a key role in business development.

• Prepare for Questions: Be ready to elaborate on any aspect of your portfolio, defend your technical decisions, and discuss alternative approaches you might have considered.

Challenge Preparation:

• Review Fundamentals: Refresh your knowledge of core power system principles, HVDC theory, control systems, and common grid integration standards.

• Practice Software Skills: Ensure you are comfortable discussing your experience with relevant simulation tools (PSS/E, PSCAD, PSLF) and can articulate how you use them for analysis.

• Develop Problem-Solving Framework: Prepare a structured approach to tackling new technical challenges, focusing on understanding the problem, identifying key parameters, exploring solutions, and evaluating outcomes.

• Articulate Business Value: Be ready to connect technical solutions to business objectives, discussing cost implications, risk mitigation, and project viability.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio is critical for senior/principal roles. Candidates should be prepared to deep-dive into their project experiences, demonstrating not just technical skills but also strategic thinking, problem-solving acumen, and the ability to articulate value.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Power System Simulation Software:

  • PSS/E (Power System Simulator for Engineering): Widely used for steady-state and dynamic analysis of power systems, including AC/DC interactions.
  • PSCAD (Power Systems Computer Aided Design): A versatile electromagnetic transient (EMT) simulation tool, crucial for detailed modeling of converter stations and complex transient phenomena.
  • PSLF (Positive Sequence Load Flow): Primarily used for load flow and stability analysis, often in conjunction with other tools.
  • DIgSILENT PowerFactory: Another comprehensive tool for power system analysis, modeling, and simulation, increasingly adopted in the industry.

• CAD Software: For reviewing and potentially contributing to general arrangement drawings and equipment layouts (e.g., AutoCAD, MicroStation).

• Project Management Software: Tools like MS Project, Jira, or DNV's internal platforms for tracking project progress, tasks, and timelines.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Excel: For data analysis, calculations, and basic reporting.

• MATLAB/Simulink: For advanced mathematical modeling, algorithm development, and specialized simulations.

• Data Visualization Tools: Potentially used for presenting study results (e.g., Power BI, Tableau, or customized scripting).

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce): Used for managing client relationships, tracking business development activities, and opportunity management.

• Document Management Systems: DNV's internal systems for secure storage, retrieval, and version control of project documentation and reports.

• Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, SharePoint, or similar for team communication, file sharing, and collaborative work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with industry-standard power system simulation software is paramount for this role. The ability to use these tools for complex analyses and to interpret their outputs is a core requirement.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all advisory and assurance activities, ensuring independence and objectivity in technical assessments.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where knowledge is shared freely, and diverse perspectives are valued to achieve optimal solutions for clients and DNV.

• Customer Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, delivering high-quality, tailored services that add tangible value and build long-term partnerships.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking new knowledge, technologies, and methodologies to advance the energy transition and provide cutting-edge solutions.

• Excellence: Striving for the highest standards of technical competence, professionalism, and delivery in all aspects of work.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Actively engaging with colleagues from different DNV business units (e.g., offshore wind, risk management, market analysis) to provide holistic project solutions.

• Knowledge Sharing: Participating in and contributing to internal technical forums, "lunch & learn" sessions, and knowledge-sharing platforms to disseminate expertise and best practices.

• Mentorship & Coaching: A culture of senior members guiding and developing junior consultants, fostering professional growth and technical skill development within the team.

• Open Feedback: Encouraging constructive feedback loops among team members and with clients to continuously improve processes and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: DNV's values emphasize trust, expertise, and a commitment to sustainability, which are critical for a consultancy firm operating in the energy sector. The collaborative style is essential for leveraging the company's broad expertise.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapidly Evolving Technology: Keeping pace with the continuous advancements in HVDC technology, control systems, and grid integration strategies requires ongoing learning and adaptation.

• Complex Project Demands: Managing multifaceted projects with diverse stakeholder interests, tight deadlines, and evolving technical requirements can be demanding.

• Global Project Coordination: Working on international projects necessitates navigating different regulatory environments, cultural nuances, and time zones effectively.

• Balancing Technical Depth with Business Development: Effectively transitioning from deep technical analysis to client engagement and commercial opportunity identification requires a dual skill set.

• Integration of Renewables: Addressing the complexities of integrating intermittent renewable energy sources through HVDC links, including grid stability and control challenges.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Training Programs: Access to DNV's extensive internal training catalogue and external courses focused on specialized HVDC topics, grid codes, and emerging technologies.

• Industry Conferences & Standards: Opportunities to attend and present at leading international conferences (e.g., CIGRE, IEEE) and actively participate in working groups shaping industry standards.

• Mentorship & Coaching: Benefit from guidance from experienced senior professionals within DNV and opportunities to mentor junior engineers, enhancing leadership and communication skills.

• Cross-Disciplinary Projects: Exposure to a wide range of projects across different energy sectors (renewables, grids, storage) to broaden technical and commercial understanding.

• Certification Programs: Support for obtaining relevant professional certifications or accreditations in power systems engineering or project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges outlined are typical for senior roles in a dynamic, high-stakes industry like energy transmission. The growth opportunities reflect DNV's commitment to employee development and career progression within specialized technical fields.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Technical Strategy: "Describe your approach to designing a multi-terminal HVDC system for integrating offshore wind farms into a meshed AC grid. What are the key technical considerations and potential challenges?" (Prepare to discuss converter control, fault current limitations, grid stability, and protection coordination.)

• Problem-Solving: "Imagine a client is experiencing instability issues with their existing HVDC link. How would you diagnose the problem, what tools would you use, and what steps would you take to propose a solution?" (Focus on a structured diagnostic approach, data analysis, simulation, and presenting findings.)

• Business Acumen: "How do you see the role of HVDC technology evolving in the next 5-10 years, and what are the key market opportunities for DNV in this space?" (Demonstrate foresight into industry trends, technology advancements, and DNV's potential contributions.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Value Alignment: "DNV values integrity and customer focus. Can you provide an example from your career where you demonstrated these values in a challenging project situation?" (Prepare specific anecdotes that showcase your commitment to ethical conduct and client success.)

• Collaboration: "Describe a time you had to collaborate with a diverse team, possibly with differing technical opinions, to achieve a project goal. How did you navigate those differences?" (Highlight your communication, negotiation, and team-building skills.)

• Mentorship: "How do you approach mentoring junior engineers, and what do you believe are the key elements of effective technical guidance?" (Showcase your willingness and ability to develop others.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Executive Summary: Start with a high-level overview of your most significant HVDC project, highlighting the core challenge, your role, and the key outcomes.

• Deep Dive into One Project: Select one complex project for a detailed walkthrough. Structure it using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or a similar problem-solution-impact framework.

• Quantify Impact: Use clear metrics to illustrate the scale and success of your contributions (e.g., system capacity, efficiency gains, cost savings, reliability improvements).

• Technical Justification: Be prepared to explain the rationale behind your design decisions, the methodologies used in your analysis, and how you addressed specific technical challenges.

• Future-Oriented Discussion: Conclude by discussing lessons learned from the project and how that experience informs your approach to future challenges, aligning with DNV's focus on innovation and continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not only deep technical expertise but also strategic thinking, problem-solving capabilities, and alignment with DNV's core values and business objectives.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight specific experience in HVDC system design, system studies, dynamic modeling, and client advisory roles. Prepare a concise portfolio (PDF format preferred) showcasing 2-4 key HVDC projects, detailing your specific contributions, methodologies, and quantifiable results.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your years of experience, technical proficiencies (including specific software), and achievements in HVDC project lifecycle management. Use keywords such as "HVDC," "System Design," "Consulting," "Power Systems," "Dynamic Modeling," and "Grid Integration."

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your technical expertise and project experiences concisely. Prepare to discuss your approach to complex design challenges, your understanding of grid integration, and your experience with relevant simulation tools. Rehearse your portfolio presentation, focusing on impact and ROI.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research DNV's FlexGrid venture, their recent projects, and their broader role in the energy transition. Understand their company values and identify how your skills and experience align with their mission and culture.

⚠️ 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.