Lead System Planning Engineer

NEOM is an accelerator of human progress and a vision of what a new future might look like. A region in northwest Saudi Arabia on the Red Sea, NEOM is being built from the ground up to include hyperconnected, cognitive cities, ports, next-generation infrastructure and industries, enterprise zones, research centers, sports and entertainment venues and tourist destinations.

As a destination, it will be a home for people who dream big and want to be part of building a new model for exceptional livability, creating thriving businesses and reinventing environmental conservation.

As a workplace, it is a place for people who share our core values of care, curiosity, diversity, passion, respect, and becoming a catalyst for change.

Are you ready to help NEOM find solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges? Are you prepared to create a lasting legacy that benefits generations to come? Then we want to hear from you!

ROLE OVERVIEW

• Lead and undertake the planning, designing and modelling of the distribution network 33kV and downstream in order to ensure an economic, efficient, reliable and 100% renewable power supply.
• Lead Microgrid strategy, development and implementation activities including integration of Distribution Energy Resources (DER) and Demand Side Management (DSM).
• Capable of providing engineering assistance for planning of the ENOWA automated distribution system, enabling the integration of current and future renewable low carbon technologies.
• Manage the processes and/or staff in an Engineering service delivery stream, within the appropriate distribution planning business area, to support the continual development of the ENOWA network, its operation and the overall asset management strategies.

ROLE COMPETENCIES & ACTIVITIES

The Lead System Planning Engineer’s responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

Distribution System Development & Management

• Develop the short- and long-term power system planning of distribution network from 33kV to LV and interface with transmission planning team.
• Develop distribution system planning documentation including standards and policies for use by all parties involved in designing and constructing the ENOWA distribution network.
• Lead and assist project-specific design reviews from planning perspective and ensure compliance with relevant NEOM while allowing innovative solutions and modelling of the distribution grid as an interactive, AI-managed optimization platform (potential for grid of microgrids) at the lowest cost.
• Develop and ensure compliance with distribution system planning code and security standards for network planning.
• Assist in liaison with other Grid departments in order to help and assist on network proposals not limited but including related to bulk load requests, load transfers, load balancing.
• Review and prepare pre-investment appraisal documents for network expansion projects, focusing on all viable options together with their technical, financial and environmental aspects.
• Lead and assist in development and implementation guidelines for low carbon technologies not limited to and including PV, electric vehicles and energy storage.
• Assist in establishment of smart grid system including but not limited to smart metering, distribution automation and/or similar systems like digital twin.

Subject Matter Expert for Microgrids Strategy, Development & Implementation

• Lead Microgrid development strategy and roadmap including standards/specifications for implementation across ENOWA distribution system.
• Develop use cases considering techno-economic analysis for application of Microgrids across customer connection projects and ancillary services for grid stability. Assist in modelling and technical analysis of Microgrids and distribution networks utilising power system analysis software.
• Assist in design reviews, identify opportunities and propose solutions related to renewable generation and DER integration as part of masterplan development.
• Establish relationships with OEM’s and academic institutions in R&D of innovative solutions in Microgrid area and actively involve in publishing papers in international conferences.
• Assist in preparation of scope of works, tender evaluation and contractor management for development and implementation of Microgrids in Neom.

Distribution System Implementation and Analysis

• Assist in undertaking the annual distribution load analysis and forecasting for the complete distribution systems including the individual primary substation.
• Undertake system modelling – power flow, short circuit analysis, losses/reliability optimisation and power quality to come up with solutions/strategies for improving system parameters like voltage, power distribution, connection and power factor.
• Conduct market research and contribute to engineering research, innovation, design and the determination of cost & risk-based recommendations for the ongoing functioning of the grid.

Health, Safety & Environment

• Drive high level of safety performance by clearly articulating the requirements for safety in design and construction methodologies relating to the distribution system as well as reporting.

Culture and Values

• Embrace NEOM’s culture and Values.
• Act with honesty and integrity by following best practices, and upholding the robust standards and expectations set out in NEOM’s Code of Conduct.
• Maintain fair, ethical and professional work practices in accordance with NEOM’s Values and Code of Conduct.
• Adhere to NEOM’s Policies, procedures, and controls to ensure compliance with rules.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS

Knowledge, Skills and Experience

• 5+ years of professional experience in power sector with at least 2-3 years’ experience in DSO system planning.
• Proven experience in the establishment and management of standards and policies for design, construction, operation and maintenance of electrical LV and MV automated distribution systems, preferably with a high proportion of renewable energy resources involved.
• Proven experience in design and implementation of Microgrids and integration of low carbon technologies in distribution networks.
• Proficient in one of the power system simulation tools such as PSSE, DIgSILENT or ETAP.
• Demonstrated experience in and commitment to both grid innovation and its practical implementation is paramount to deliver a stable, cost-effective distribution grid based on 100% renewable power.
• Experience in leading small teams as technical supervisor including highly developed interpersonal skills and written and oral communication skills.
• Proven track record of delivering outcomes with strong ability to prioritize tasks in a highly dynamic and changing environment, with a focus on efficiency, enhanced multitasking abilities, combined with a “can-do” mentality are essential.
• Experience in financial evaluation, work practices, risk management, statutory and regulatory compliance.
• Effective negotiation and conflict resolution skills, including planning, organizing and directing work in a collaborative work style, fostering cooperation and teamwork.

Qualifications