General Purpose
We are seeking a senior-level Chief Engineer – Electrical (MV Systems) to lead the performance, safety, and lifecycle planning of medium-voltage (MV) electrical infrastructure across a premium integrated resort. This includes the 11kV island-wide distribution network, MV generation plant, SCADA-based control systems, metering infrastructure, and protection systems. The role ensures uninterrupted operations, code compliance, and asset optimization through structured engineering, diagnostics, and strategic leadership.
System Operations and Technical Oversight
- Manage the full operational integrity of 11kV electrical systems, including MV switchgear, control panels, building reticulation, and backup generation systems.
- Oversee real-time performance, fault response, and preventive maintenance of power management and SCADA systems across the MV network.
- Supervise installation, commissioning, and system integration for new MV infrastructure, ensuring functional testing, settings verification, and documentation completion.
- Validate MV protection systems and implement upgrades aligned with evolving load profiles, energy strategies, and safety regulations.
- Monitor smart metering, demand-side managemkenent systems, and energy use trends across the network.
- Ensure reliable operation of backup generation plants, control logic, fuel systems, and load transfer protocols.
- Conduct arc flash risk assessments and verify full implementation of lockout/tagout (LOTO) and high-voltage isolation procedures.
- Develop isolation strategies and switching procedures for planned works or fault recovery, and supervise their execution.
- Analyze and resolve complex electrical issues using power schematics, single-line diagrams, and system trend analysis.
- Manage MV system health tracking through BMS/SCADA platforms, asset condition reports, and fault analytics.
- Lead optimization strategies including load balancing, redundancy planning, and reduction of non-essential consumption during peak demand.
- Develop system lifecycle and CAPEX replacement plans based on equipment condition, load demands, and operational criticality.
Regulatory Compliance and Risk Assurance
- Ensure full compliance with UAE utility codes, grid authority regulations, and Civil Defense requirements for medium-voltage infrastructure.
- Liaise with Local Authorities for MV-related approvals, inspections, and system upgrades.
- Maintain detailed documentation for electrical protection tests, maintenance activities, risk controls, and authority certifications.
- Oversee plant safety validation, including earthing systems, enclosure ratings, breaker operation, and hazard signage.
- Prepare audit reports and contribute to business continuity planning through MV resilience and emergency power readiness.
- Coordinate with insurance and authority bodies for inspections, compliance testing, and risk mitigation strategies.
Diagnostics, Performance Management, and Innovation
- Implement advanced diagnostics using SCADA trend data, smart meters, and thermal imaging tools to detect system anomalies.
- Review MV system load curves, transformer capacity, and switchgear performance for energy efficiency and fault risk.
- Lead improvement initiatives for power quality, equipment uptime, and energy resilience across distributed assets.
- Evaluate opportunities to integrate energy storage, generator optimization, or smart grid features for operational enhancement.
- Drive data-based improvement planning, identify system vulnerabilities, and lead corrective design reviews.
- Benchmark MV system performance against global hospitality standards and identify opportunities for modernization or upgrade.
Documentation and Departmental Coordination
- Maintain complete records of electrical drawings, equipment schedules, isolation procedures, and protection settings.
- Ensure CMMS/CAFM systems reflect accurate asset condition, maintenance logs, test results, and inspection data.
- Coordinate with Facilities, BMS, HVAC, and Fire Systems teams to plan shared infrastructure isolations and support asset health tracking.
- Liaise with contractors and OEM specialists for testing, commissioning, and corrective works, and verify scope compliance.
- Collaborate with Procurement to forecast and manage spares inventory for MV gear, relays, transformers, and consumables.
- Prepare technical input for monthly performance reports, CAPEX justifications, and risk mitigation plans.
People Management and Technical Development
- Supervise MV technicians and engineers, assigning high-voltage work scopes and supporting escalation-level fault diagnosis.
- Deliver structured training in SCADA use, MV protection, power safety protocols, and commissioning standards.
- Oversee team rosters and ensure skilled coverage during high-demand periods, night shifts, or emergency callouts.
- Coordinate emergency simulation exercises to test staff response to blackout scenarios and protection system failure.
- Monitor contractor performance during outsourced works and verify quality against safety and technical criteria.
- Promote a strong safety culture and engineering professionalism in high-voltage environments.
Qualifications
Education
Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent. A UAE-recognized electrical license or advanced diploma with high-voltage system experience may also be considered.
Experience
- Minimum 10 years in electrical engineering roles with at least 5 years in MV system operation, protection, and lifecycle management.
- Experience managing grid interface, backup generation, and high-voltage switching in large commercial or resort environments is essential.
Certifications and Technical Knowledge
- Strong familiarity with UAE electrical grid codes, Civil Defense requirements, and MV testing protocols.
- Hands-on experience with SCADA systems, smart meters, MV switchgear, generator logic controls, and protection settings.
- Capable of preparing switching programs, safety documentation, and technical reports.
- Proficient in CMMS platforms, MS Office, SCADA dashboards, and electrical modeling tools.
- Recognized certification in HV systems, safety, or protection relay testing is preferred.
Language and IT Skills
- Fluent in written and spoken English. Proficiency in Arabic or other regional languages is an advantage for stakeholder communication.
- Competent in digital reporting, diagnostics, and maintenance software tools.
Other Requirements
- Demonstrates precision, calmness, and safety awareness in high-voltage work environments.
- Available for after-hours callouts and critical incident leadership.