Direct Response Network Specialist

Direct Response Network Specialist – Permanent – Stirling Depot 

This role provides senior on-site technical leadership during high-risk, multi-agency incidents to keep Western Power’s network operating safely. As the primary field representative, it coordinates directly with DFES, WA Police and other agencies to manage electrical hazards, defining safe work zones, provide real-time network intelligence and advise on risks, switching requirements and isolation strategies under Australasian Inter-service Incident Management System (AIIMS)-aligned incident management arrangements. 

The specialist provides advanced capability and technical expertise in HV/LV operations, complex fault investigations, power quality and shock enquiries, emergency switching and alternative supply strategies, making critical decisions to stabilise the network and protect life and restore supply. The role also directs Western Power crews on site to ensure safe, coordinated and effective response. 

The role plays a critical role in safeguarding the community, supporting emergency partners and maintaining network integrity during major incidents. 

Your Role in Action   

• Take personal accountability for own safety and actively lead the safety of others by ensuring safe systems of works are established and maintained during all field activities. 
• Lead the on-scene coordination of Western Power operations during Level 2–3 emergency events (e.g., bushfires, CBD structure fires/collapse, major network failures, multi-agency incidents), directing multiple crews and contractors under dynamic conditions.
• Act as the senior technical liaison officer to hazard management agencies, providing authoritative advice on electrical hazards, network behaviour, isolation boundaries and safe access/egress during response operations.
• Exercise delegated decision making to safeguard life, critical infrastructure and supply continuity; initiate stop-work or escalation where risk thresholds are exceeded.
• Provide senior oversight of complex HV/LV switching operations, emergency switching plans and commissioning activities, including generator/injection solutions for alternative supply.
• Lead investigation and resolution of multi-discipline, high-impact faults: complex power quality incidents, electric shock investigations, automated switchgear failures and cable testing/fault location.
• Coordinate emergency planning and resource management when operating in high level emergency events. maintaining network integrity while optimising availability, safety and restoration outcomes.
• Act as the senior mentor and technical authority for Network Investigation Technicians and first responders; deliver advanced coaching in emergency response tactics, switching and high-risk field operations. 

What Makes You a Great Fit  

• Current “A” Grade WA Electrical Workers License endorsed for Electrical Fitting/Mechanic. 
• Western Power Switching Level 0 (ENAR).
• Western Power Switching Levels LOU, HOU.
• Substantial (min 10 years) demonstrated experience relevant to the design, construction, maintenance and operation of electrical distribution networks and equipment.
• Demonstrated continuous improvement, training, mentoring and coaching techniques of individuals within a team and across the business.
• Proven experience coordinating and providing technical supervision of others in high-risk, time-critical environments.
• Subject Matter Expert with a minimum of two of the following:
  • HV and LV complex power quality issues, causes and corrective actions including electric shock investigations.
  • Emergency Response Generator commissioning and operation.
  • Commissioning and fault finding on distribution automated electronic switchgear.
  • Specialist technical knowledge of Distribution and / or Transmission general and fault switching techniques and practices. 

By joining Western Power, you will contribute to powering a cleaner energy future. We are dedicated to fostering career development and promoting a healthy work-life balance, empowering you to drive innovation as we develop a network that will serve the Western Australian community for generations. You will also benefit from a range of perks and opportunities, including: 

• Over 50% of our employment opportunities are driven by career progression.  
• Flexible work arrangements to support part time work, working hours and working from home arrangements. 
• The opportunity to purchase up to four weeks of additional leave per year. 
• Access to salary packaging, social club activities, and discounted health insurance and gym membership. 
• An award-winning employee recognition and benefits programme. 
• An innovative team culture that’s enabling the transition to renewable energy and decarbonisation.   
• In addition to standard leave, enjoy three wellness leave days each year.
• 22 weeks paid parental leave and 5 days of First Nations cultural leave to support family and cultural connections.

Applications close on 19 August 2026.

We value diversity and inclusivity, encouraging applications from all backgrounds, including women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, and LGBTQIA+ communities. As a WORK180-endorsed employer for women, we are proud of our commitment to inclusion. You can learn more about this through our Reconciliation Action Plan and Disability Access and Inclusion Plan. 

Learn more about Western Power here: About (westernpower.com.au) 

Find out how we’re building A Network for Life: A network for life (westernpower.com.au)