Primary Engineer

Job description:

About the Job:

We are looking for a highly skilled and experienced Primary Engineer to join our high-performing engineering team. In this key technical role, you will be responsible for leading the design and development of primary systems for HV/EHV substations , including equipment specifications, layout engineering, grounding, busbar design, and integration with secondary systems.
You will manage design activities, coordinate closely with multidisciplinary teams, and ensure the delivery of high-quality engineering solutions within transmission and distribution (T&D) projects.

Key Responsibilities/Deliverables:

• Lead the primary engineering design for LV/MV/HV/EHV substations from conceptual design, detailed design, and up to Issued for Construction (IFC) stage.
• Prepare and review substation layout drawings including general arrangement (GA), equipment layout, sections, control room layout, and cable trench/tray routing.
• Develop and validate calculations related to short circuit / busbar sizing, grounding/earthing design, insulation coordination, clearance studies, and equipment rating .
• Prepare and review equipment specifications for high-voltage equipment such as power transformers, circuit breakers, disconnect switches, busbars, surge arresters, CTs/VTs, and other primary components.
• Ensure full compliance with international and regional standards such as IEC, IEEE, NEC, SASO, SEC , and project-specific requirements.
• Coordinate all interfaces between primary, secondary, civil/structural, and mechanical engineering teams .
• Review vendor drawings, datasheets, and technical submittals, ensuring alignment with project specifications and design requirements.
• Provide technical expertise and support during installation, testing, and commissioning of primary systems.
• Lead engineering reviews, design validation processes, and support client/contractor meetings.
• Mentor and guide junior engineers in primary system engineering, design standards, and project execution.
• Stay updated with new technologies, high-voltage equipment trends, international standards, and best practices in substation engineering.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering , preferably with specialization in Power Systems or High Voltage Engineering.
• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in substation primary design within T&D projects.
• Proven expertise in primary system design for HV/EHV substations across different voltage levels.
• Strong technical knowledge of substation equipment specifications, busbar schemes, layouts, earthing systems, and insulation coordination .
• Solid understanding of relevant standards ( IEC, IEEE, BS ) and regional regulations including Saudi electrical standards.
• Proficiency in electrical design tools such as AutoCAD, CDEGS (for earthing), ETAP/DIgSILENT (basic studies), and 3D modeling tools .
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to handle complex engineering challenges.
• Excellent communication skills with experience working with clients, contractors, and multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Strong leadership capability and commitment to delivering high-quality engineering outputs.

Language Proficiency Requirements:

• Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.

Knowledge and Functional Competencies:

• Solid understanding of engineering cost estimation, BOQ preparation, and documentation tools.
• Knowledge of international best practices in substation design and project execution.
• Strong analytical, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple assignments, and meet project deadlines.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with a collaborative approach to cross-functional coordination.

What We Offer:

• We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, as well as opportunities for professional development, continuous learning and growth, and career advancement.
• Work with diverse and talented professionals from various backgrounds and colleagues, all guided by our Leadership Model.
• Work in a friendly environment, where everyone shares positive vibes and is excited about our future.

DAR Engineering is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, race, color, religion, age, marital status, gender identity, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Thank you for considering a career with us. We appreciate all applications; however, only candidates selected for further evaluation will be contacted. We encourage you to regularly check for updates and explore future opportunities with DAR Engineering. Best of luck!

Company Description:

DAR Engineering is a leading multidisciplinary consultancy firm providing design, architecture, engineering, project management, construction management and planning services across a broad range of sectors. We assist national governments, international organizations, and private sector companies by delivering comprehensive solutions with global expertise.

For more information about DAR, please visit https://www.dar-engineering.com