Senior Engineer - Substation Design (Electrical)

More about the role:

At Al Ghurair, we remain dedicated to driving innovation and shaping the future. As we continue to look for the best and brightest talent to scale our growth, we currently have an amazing opportunity for a Senior Engineer - Substation Design (Electrical) in our Power Division (Substation Projects), Dubai. We seek individuals who are not only experts in their field but also possess a proactive mindset, exceptional collaboration skills, and a passion for fostering a positive work culture.

What you’ll do?

The Senior Engineer – Substation Design (Electrical) is responsible for leading and executing the complete electrical design activities for extra high-voltage and high-voltage substations in accordance with DEWA standards, international codes, and project specifications. The role ensures safe, cost-effective, and technically compliant design solutions from concept through detailed engineering, supporting successful project execution, testing, commissioning, and handover.

Key Roles & Responsibilities:

• Develop and review electrical designs for EHV/HV substations (132/11 kV and related systems) in line with DEWA standards.
• Prepare and check single line diagrams, protection philosophies, equipment layouts, and system configuration drawings.
• Design and prepare cable routing layouts, cable tray layouts, trench layouts, and duct bank arrangements.
• Develop earthing and lightning protection system designs, calculations, and layouts in accordance with IEEE, IEC and local authority requirements.
• Prepare lighting layouts, illumination calculations, and lighting support drawings for substations and associated facilities.
• Design transformer foundations, plinths, trenches, and interface details in coordination with civil and structural disciplines.
• Carry out cable engineering including cable sizing, voltage drop, short circuit calculations, and preparation of cable schedules.
• Prepare material take-offs (MTO), bill of quantities, and technical specifications for electrical equipment and bulk materials.
• Coordinate with interface systems such as protection & control, SCADA, telecom, mechanical and civil teams to ensure integrated design solutions.
• Review vendor drawings and technical submittals to ensure compliance with project specifications and standards.
• Support construction, testing, and commissioning teams by providing technical clarifications, resolving site issues, and issuing design revisions as required.
• Participate in site visits, inspections, and design validation activities, including resolution of construction or fabrication discrepancies.
• Prepare as-built drawings and final documentation for project handover.

Who you are?

• Possesses a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering from an accredited university.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in substation design, showcasing a deep understanding of the field.
• Proven experience in design, supply, installation, testing, and commissioning support for EHV/HV substations in the UAE or GCC region.
• Authority-specific experience with DEWA / ETIHADWE / FEWA / SEWA / AADC / ADDC / TRANSCO / TAQA is highly desirable.
• Demonstrates proficiency in using industry-standard software such as ETAP or similar for electrical studies.
• Strong knowledge of EHV/HV substation systems, switchgear, transformers, protection schemes, and auxiliary systems.
• Thorough understanding of IEC, IEEE, BS standards and UAE utility regulations.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and experience with 2D/3D design tools such as Bentley AutoPLANT or similar engineering software.
• Solid understanding of cable engineering, earthing systems, lightning protection, and lighting design.
• Ability to interpret technical specifications, contract documents, and authority guidelines.
• Strong coordination, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Good communication skills with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural EPC environment.

Who are we?

Al Ghurair is a leading diversified family business group in the Middle East, founded in 1960 with operations spanning six key industry sectors: Foods and Resources, Properties, Construction and Services, Energy, Mobility, and Ventures. Headquartered in Deira, we are proud to employ approximately 28,000 people across more than 50 countries worldwide.

We are looking for passionate and talented individuals to join us in our journey. At Al Ghurair, you have the opportunity to contribute to a legacy of excellence and be part of a team that is shaping the future of the UAE and beyond.

Discover more about us at: https://www.al-ghurair.com/

Why join us?

We’re a vibrant community where individuals thrive and careers flourish. Our diverse community embodies this spirit, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. Here, respect, support, and open communication form the very fabric of our work environment, to fulfil our core Purpose of ‘Enhancing Life’. When you work with us, you become part of our shared purpose, collaborating with colleagues who share your passion and commitment to success.