Electrical Primary Design Engineer(Substation) - KSA & UAE - L1

Job Description

We are currently seeking a seasoned and technically proficient Manager - Engineering Services with 7-10 years of core experience in the design and engineering of GIS and AIS Substation Projects, with voltage levels up to 380kV. This role is critical in ensuring the successful delivery of both pre-bid and post-award engineering deliverables, with adherence to international standards and client specifications.

Note: Gulf experience is mandatory. Preference will be given to candidates with Saudi Arabia project experience.

Key Responsibilities

1. Pre-Bid / Proposal Engineering

• Review and analyze tender documents, technical specifications, and project scope.

  
  
  

• Develop conceptual Single Line Diagrams (SLDs), equipment layouts, and general arrangements.

  
  
  

• Perform preliminary BOQ preparation, equipment sizing, and quantity take-offs (CTs, PTs, Breakers, Disconnectors, etc.).

  
  
  

• Optimize design for space utilization, cost efficiency, and constructability.

  
  
  

• Coordinate with estimation/proposal teams to prepare comprehensive technical proposals.

  
  
  

• Interface with OEMs and vendors to obtain technical specifications, datasheets, and pricing.

  
  
  

• Identify technical risks, potential deviations, and value engineering options.

  
  
  

• Provide technical clarifications during the bidding phase and support client presentations.

  
  
  
  

2. Detailed Design & Contract Execution

• Lead and supervise the preparation of detailed primary design drawings, including:

  
  
  

  • General Arrangement (GA) Drawings

    
    
    

  • Equipment Layouts

    
    
    

  • HV Equipment Interconnection Diagrams

    
    
    

  • Earthing & Grounding Layouts

    
    
    

  • Busbar Design and Calculations

    
    
    

  • Cable Trenches & Routing Plans

    
    
    

• Perform equipment sizing and selection for HV/EHV components (CBs, CTs, PTs, Isolators, Surge Arresters, etc.).

  
  
  

• Conduct mechanical and electrical clearance studies in line with IEC/IEEE/IS standards.

  
  
  

• Collaborate with secondary engineering, civil, and protection teams for interface coordination.

  
  
  

• Participate in design reviews, client meetings, and technical workshops.

  
  
  

• Support material procurement by finalizing BOQs and technical specifications.

  
  
  

• Ensure engineering deliverables comply with international codes, utility standards, and project timelines.

  
  
  

Preferred Candidate Profile

• Must have Gulf experience; Saudi Arabia project experience highly desirable.

  
  
  

• Proven ability to lead multidisciplinary design coordination.

  
  
  

• Excellent communication, presentation, and stakeholder management skills.

  
  
  

• Capable of mentoring junior engineers and ensuring quality control of deliverables.

  
  
  

Key Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent.

  
  
  

• 7-10 years of hands-on experience in Primary Engineering Design for HV/EHV substations.

  
  
  

• Proficient in GIS and AIS substation design up to 380kV.

  
  
  

• Strong understanding of IEC / IEEE / IS standards.

  
  
  

• Skilled in using AutoCAD, ETAP, CDEGS, or similar design and calculation tools.

  
  
  

• Experience in technical coordination with clients, OEMs, and internal stakeholders.

  
  
  

• Familiarity with Saudi Electric Company (SEC) or other GCC utility standards is an added advantage.