To support projects in energy infrastructure, we are looking for a freelance electrical engineer specializing in high and extra-high voltage as a Primary Planner (m/f/d). Projects include grid connections for generation plants (especially wind and solar farms) as well as new construction and upgrades of substations.
Typical tasks in this role:**
Developing primary-technical concepts and layouts for air- and gas-insulated high and extra-high voltage switchgear (AIS/GIS) from 110 kV to 380 kV.
Designing and sizing primary equipment (circuit breakers, disconnectors, instrument transformers, transformers, etc.).
Creating single-line diagrams, overview and arrangement drawings.
Performing short-circuit and load flow calculations as well as sizing grounding systems and lightning protection.
Technical coordination and clarification with clients, grid operators, authorities, and suppliers.
Preparing technical specifications and tender documents for primary equipment.
Coordinating with other disciplines such as secondary technology, civil engineering, and control systems.
Supporting commissioning and acceptance of the installations.
Relevant technologies, tools or methods:**
Planning software: AutoCAD, Primtech, REVIT, EPLAN.
Calculation tools: PowerFactory (DIgSILENT), NEPLAN, or manufacturer-specific tools.
Standards & regulations: VDE-AR-N 4120 (TAR High Voltage), IEC standards, EN standards.
Project management tools: MS Project, Jira.
BIM (Building Information Modeling) in plant engineering.
Typical KPIs or success metrics:**
Planning quality: Number of required plan changes after approval < 5%.
On-time delivery: Meeting planning milestones according to the overall project schedule.
Cost efficiency: Staying within budget for the planned primary equipment.
Technical compliance: Successful acceptance of the installation by the grid operator without primary-technical issues.
Interface management: Smooth coordination, measured by the number of delays in other disciplines caused by planning errors.
Key challenges, risks or specifics:**
High complexity and safety requirements in high and extra-high voltage areas.
Strict adherence to grid connection guidelines (TAR) of the respective grid operators.
Long lead times and price fluctuations for primary-technical major components.
Coordination in tight spaces, especially during upgrades in existing installations.
Increasing requirements due to integration of renewable energy (e.g. reactive power management, FRT behavior).
Ensuring physical safety and occupational health when planning.
Concrete deliverables:**
Approval-ready primary-technical planning documents (layouts, views, sections).
Final single-line diagrams and overview schematics.
Technical calculation reports (e.g. short-circuit strength, grounding).
Prepared bills of quantities and technical specifications for procurement.
Minutes from technical coordination meetings.
Revision documents and as-built documentation.
Must-Haves:**
University degree in electrical engineering (Dipl.-Ing./Master/Bachelor) with a focus on power engineering or an equivalent qualification (e.g. technician with many years of experience).
Several years of professional experience in primary-technical planning of high and extra-high voltage switchgear (110 kV and above).
Very good knowledge of relevant standards and regulations, especially VDE application rules (TAR High Voltage).
Proficient use of CAD software (e.g. AutoCAD, Primtech) and ideally calculation software (e.g. DIgSILENT PowerFactory).
Nice-to-Haves:**
Experience in planning grid connections for renewable energy (wind/PV).
Knowledge of secondary or control technology for switchgear.
Experience in project management or as a sub-project lead.
Knowledge of BIM methods.
Personal qualities and mindset:**
Strong passion for technology and a highly precise, detail-oriented work style.
Analytical and systematic thinking to solve complex technical challenges.
Strong communication and teamwork skills for interdisciplinary collaboration.
High sense of responsibility and reliability.
Willingness and ability to continuously learn new technologies and standards.