SCADA Specialist - Operations Systems Support

Position Description

The DMSO (Distribution Markets and System Operation) Operations Systems Support (OSS) team is seeking to fill the role of SCADA Specialist. The role of the OSS team is to support and maintain ESB Networks’ critical Operational Technology (OT) systems which include SCADA, Network Management System (NMS) and Geographic Information System (GIS).

SCADA is the real-time operations system used in the National Distribution Control Centre (NDCC) to control and monitor the distribution network. It enables the NDCC to operate the network under maximum safety, isolating faults and restoring supply in the event of an outage.

In support of ESB’s strategic objectives of decarbonising electricity, building resilient infrastructure and empowering clients, the SCADA Specialist will be responsible for supporting and maintaining the SCADA system, developing the SCADA solution, and supporting the delivery of new projects required to meet the strategic objectives of the DMSO. This will include all aspects of support including the specification of new processes, procedures and functionality.

Key Responsibilities

• Subject Matter Expert for SCADA including Control SCADA, Distribution Management Systems (DMS) application and Remote Terminal Units (RTUs).
• Development and implementation of operations systems to meet ESB Networks’ overall strategy for the safe management and operation of the distribution system.
• Support and maintain 24x7 operation of the SCADA system for ESB Networks and the National Distribution Control Centre.
• Provide support to ensure the smooth roll out and reliable operation of SCADA systems.
• Contribute to and support the delivery of new projects required to meet the strategic objectives of the DMSO.
• Manage the delivery of SCADA projects within the OSS team.
• Act as Subject Matter Expert on SCADA systems, staying abreast of best practice developments in SCADA systems.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations, standards, and safety protocols.
• Ensure effective use of the SCADA systems by users through the provision of training programmes.
• Carry out risk assessment of the various systems as required and contribute to the development of contingency plans in accordance with best industry practice
• Develop functional specifications and procedures for the operation of ESB Networks’ SCADA systems.
• Liaise with users of the SCADA systems and develop user instructions for the use of SCADA systems.
• Contribute to ESB Networks’ strategy in the deployment of technologies to enhance quality of service to customers.
• Contribute to the development of advanced SCADA and Distribution Management System (DMS) applications.
• Leverage existing operations technologies to drive benefits for other areas of the business.
• Work to integrate existing SCADA technologies into other business systems.
• Manage stakeholders across internal business units, third parties and operational system vendors.
• Provide support to the OT Cybersecurity Manager.
• Supervise and mentor junior team members, fostering collaboration and skill development.

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years relevant experience.
• Either a 3rd level qualification or equivalent work experience.
• Proven ability to deliver on the key responsibilities outlined above.
• Strong knowledge of Control Centre SCADA systems.
• Strong knowledge of substation Remote Terminal Units (RTUs) and Substation Control Systems (SCS).
• Strong knowledge of industry standard SCADA communication protocols, including IEC 60870‑5‑101, IEC 60870‑5‑104, IEC 61850 and Inter Control Centre Protocol (ICCP).
• Knowledge of operations and commissioning practices.
• Knowledge of advanced SCADA and Distribution Management System (DMS) applications.
• Good understanding of mission‑critical OT systems, including experience in testing and releasing OT systems into production.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity within OT systems.
• Knowledge of substation control wiring and equipment.
• Strong work ethic with a clear focus on delivery to ESB Networks’ safety, time, quality and cost objectives.
• Demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and manage multiple priorities.
• Self‑starter with the ability to manage own work and support others within a project team.
• Ability to technically mentor junior team members.
• Flexible approach to work, particularly where required to deliver excellent customer service.
• Strong interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication and report writing skills.

Desirable Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• Familiarity with telecommunication systems.
• Knowledge of networking technologies including TCP/IP and internet technologies.
• Familiarity with Unix, Linux or similar operating systems.
• Oracle RDBMS / SQL knowledge, while not essential, would be an advantage.

Location

This position will be based in ESB Networks, Leopardstown Road, Dublin 18.

ESB is committed to smart working – combining digital tools with a culture of trust and empowerment to enable flexible ways of working. The successful candidate may work flexibly within their jurisdiction with attendance at the workplace for in‑person collaboration on at least one anchor day per week. All smart working arrangements are subject to manager approval and ongoing review, based on operational requirements.

Reporting To

SCADA Manager

Why Work with Us?

• Opportunity to lead Ireland’s transition to net zero carbon future
• Progressive, hybrid working model
• Career development through mentoring and training 
• Corporate Social Responsibility Opportunities
• Sports and Social Clubs
• Networking opportunities
• Credit Union
• Generous Pension
• Access to staff well-being programmes
• Generous parental leave entitlements
• Strong values-based and inclusive culture
• Strong commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
• Great team environment working to our Core Values: Courageous, Caring, Driven and Trusted

Salary

€71,000 to €84,000 per annum

Closing Date

24th March 2026