Description

DAR Engineering, a leading design and engineering consulting organization in Saudi Arabia engaged in power generation, electrical transmission and distribution, health care, and high-rise buildings.

About the job

We are looking for a proactive and experienced team lead / senior primary design engineer to join our high-performing team. In this leadership role, you will be responsible for leading the design and engineering of high-voltage substations, ensuring technical excellence across primary electrical systems throughout all project phases.

You will lead project activities, coordinate with multidisciplinary teams, provide technical guidance to engineers, and ensure the successful delivery of high-quality engineering solutions in transmission and distribution (T&D) projects while maintaining compliance with international standards and client requirements.

Key responsibilities / deliverables

• Lead the design and engineering of LV/MV/HV/EHV substations from conceptual and detailed design through to IFC (Issued for Construction) stage.
• Develop, review, and approve primary engineering deliverables including general arrangement (GA) drawings, equipment layouts, sections and elevations, busbar layouts, grounding and lightning protection layouts, cable trench layouts, conduit layouts, and bill of materials (BOM).
• Perform and validate engineering calculations including electrical clearances, busbar sizing, conductor sizing, equipment loading, grounding system calculations, lightning protection studies, and cable sizing.
• Ensure compliance with applicable international and regional standards such as IEC, IEEE, NEC, SASO, SEC, and client specifications.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary interfaces with protection and control, civil, structural, mechanical, telecommunications, and construction engineering teams.
• Review and approve vendor documentation, equipment drawings, technical submittals, and material specifications to ensure alignment with project requirements.
• Provide technical leadership and engineering support during procurement, installation, testing, commissioning, and project close-out phases.
• Lead technical discussions with clients, consultants, vendors, and utility representatives throughout project execution.
• Mentor, coach, and support junior engineers while promoting engineering best practices, quality standards, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications and experience

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, preferably with a specialization in power systems or high voltage engineering.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in T&D projects, with a strong background in primary substation design and demonstrated leadership experience.
• Proven expertise in the design of AIS and GIS substations across LV/MV/HV/EHV voltage levels.
• Strong knowledge of primary equipment including power transformers, circuit breakers, disconnectors, earthing switches, instrument transformers (CTs and VTs), surge arresters, busbars, insulators, capacitor banks, reactors, and associated equipment.
• Solid knowledge of applicable standards (IEC, IEEE, BS) and familiarity with regional regulations (e.g., Saudi standards).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities with the ability to manage and resolve complex technical challenges independently.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with experience leading engineering teams and interfacing with clients, contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders.
• Results-oriented mindset and a commitment to delivering excellence in engineering and project execution.

Language proficiency requirements

Proficiency in English (spoken and written) is required.

Knowledge and functional competencies

• Strong knowledge of primary substation engineering principles, equipment specifications, engineering calculations, and design optimization techniques.
• Familiarity with international utility standards, project execution methodologies, and engineering quality management systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage multiple projects, prioritize competing tasks, and meet project deadlines.
• Strong communication, leadership, and teamwork skills to effectively collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.

Why join DAR Engineering?

At DAR Engineering, we believe that great projects are delivered by exceptional people. That's why we are committed to creating an environment where talent thrives, ideas are valued, and careers grow.

Competitive rewards and benefits
Enjoy an attractive compensation package, comprehensive benefits, and recognition that reflects your expertise and contributions.

Continuous learning and career growth
We invest in your future through professional development programs, hands-on project exposure, mentorship opportunities, and clear career progression pathways.

Collaborative and diverse workplace
Work alongside highly skilled professionals from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and disciplines, united by a shared commitment to excellence and innovation.

Positive culture and inspiring environment
Be part of a dynamic workplace where teamwork, respect, and positive energy drive success, and where every employee contributes to shaping our future.

About DAR Engineering

DAR Engineering is a premier multidisciplinary consultancy delivering world-class solutions in architecture, engineering, design, project management, construction management, and planning services. With a strong presence across diverse sectors, we partner with governments, international organizations, and leading private-sector clients to transform ambitious visions into successful realities.

Driven by innovation, technical excellence, and a commitment to sustainable development, our teams combine global expertise with local insight to create impactful projects that shape communities and improve lives.

Equal opportunity commitment

DAR Engineering is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where all employees are respected, valued, and empowered to succeed. Employment decisions are based on qualifications, merits, and business needs.

We appreciate your interest in joining DAR Engineering. While only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, we encourage you to stay connected and explore future opportunities with us as we continue building a better future together.