Full Stack Developer (Elephant and Castle, GB)

Opportunity Review: Full Stack Developer with the DSO Team at UK Power Networks

Are you a passionate Full Stack Developer looking to make a tangible impact on the UK's net-zero transition? This role within the Distribution System Operator (DSO) Directorate at UK Power Networks offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a critical mission while developing your career in a dynamic and forward-thinking environment.

Reporting to the DSO Data Science & Development Manager, this permanent position is based in either their London or Ipswich office, with a blended working model available after a probationary period, offering a healthy balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Meaningful Impact: Play a vital role in ensuring the net-zero transition by harnessing data to unlock value for key players in the energy sector. Your work will directly contribute to more efficient renewable generation, shape investment decisions, and strengthen the flexibility market.
• Dynamic and Evolving Environment: The energy sector is in constant flux, and this role reflects that. You'll experience a high degree of variety, working on projects ranging from analysing flexibility markets with smart meter data to developing customer-facing web applications for new connection opportunities. This ensures continuous learning and skill development.
• Autonomy and Influence: You'll have the autonomy to influence outcomes and take ownership of projects from initial scoping to final delivery. This empowers you to drive solutions and see your contributions come to fruition.
• World-Class Recognition: Join a team that is recognized for its excellence. UK Power Networks' DSO has been rated the #1 DSO in Great Britain by Ofgem and consistently ranks among the top in global Smart Grid Index rankings.
• Advanced Technical Environment: Work with high-performance compute nodes, robust local development setups, and remote access to powerful workstations, providing the tools you need to excel.
• Comprehensive Benefits: Beyond a competitive salary and a 7.5% bonus, UK Power Networks offers a generous benefits package including:
  • 25 days of annual leave plus bank holidays.
  • Generous Reservist Leave.
  • A strong Personal Pension Plan with significant employer contributions (8% or 10% matching).
  • Support for home ownership and commuting with a Tenancy Loan Deposit Scheme and Season Ticket Loan.
  • Tax-efficient benefits like Cycle to Work, Home & Tech, and Green Car Leasing schemes.
  • Access to Occupational Health support, discounted gym membership, and an Employee Assistance Programme.
  • Exclusive discounts through the "Switched On" scheme.
• Professional Development: UK Power Networks actively values and encourages personal development. While specific experience is valuable, they are open to supporting you in acquiring additional skills if you demonstrate the right aptitude and passion for the role.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Technical Depth: This role demands a strong foundation as a Software Developer, with significant experience in Python for production-ready code, web applications, and APIs. Expertise in software best practices, Test-Driven Development (TDD), and DevOps principles is crucial.
• DevOps and Data Engineering Focus: While primarily a Full Stack Developer role, experience in DevOps strategies (including CI/CD, containerization with Docker, and orchestration) and Data Engineering (ETL, data design, and integration with cloud data platforms like Azure Data Lake and Databricks) is highly valued.
• Cloud and Infrastructure Understanding: Experience with at least one major cloud provider and deploying infrastructure as code is expected. A strong understanding of cloud-based environments, operating systems (especially Linux and Redhat), and IT competencies is essential.
• Problem-Solving in Uncertainty: The evolving nature of the energy sector means you'll need to be adept at structuring problems and requirements in uncertain environments and developing well-reasoned solutions.
• Collaboration and Stakeholder Management: The ability to work effectively with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders, from planning and operations teams to external developers and academics, is key. This includes building partnerships and managing expectations.
• Project Delivery and Budget Awareness: You'll be responsible for independent project delivery, managing partner engagement, and delivering within project-specific budgets, requiring strong organizational and cost-management skills.
• Domain Knowledge: While domain knowledge of the Distribution Network Operator (DNO) and DSO landscape is not a prerequisite, a willingness to develop this knowledge is important for success in the role.

This Full Stack Developer position offers an exciting trajectory for professionals eager to contribute to a sustainable future while honing their technical and leadership skills within a supportive and award-winning organization.