To support projects in the energy infrastructure sector, we are looking for a freelance electrical engineer specializing in high and extra-high voltage as a primary planner (m/f/d). The projects include grid connection of generation plants (in particular wind and solar farms) as well as construction and renovation 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, one-line overviews and arrangement drawings.
Performing short-circuit and load flow calculations as well as sizing of grounding systems and lightning protection.
Technical clarification and coordination with clients, grid operators, authorities and suppliers.
Preparing technical specifications and tender documents for primary equipment.
Coordinating with other disciplines such as secondary systems, civil engineering and control systems.
Supporting commissioning and acceptance of the equipment.
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 revisions after approval < 5%.
Schedule adherence: Meeting planning milestones according to the overall project schedule.
Cost efficiency: Sticking to the budget for the planned primary equipment.
Technical compliance: Successful acceptance of the installation by the grid operator without primary technical objections.
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 the high and extra-high voltage area.
Need for strict compliance with grid connection rules (TAR) of the respective grid operators.
Long lead times and price fluctuations for large primary components.
Coordination in tight spaces, especially during renovations.
Increasing requirements from integrating renewable energies (e.g. reactive power management, FRT behavior).
Ensuring physical safety and occupational health during planning.
Concrete deliverables:**
Approval-ready primary technical planning documents (layouts, elevations, sections).
Final single-line diagrams and overview schematics.
Technical calculation reports (e.g. short-circuit withstand, grounding).
Bills of quantities and technical specifications for procurement.
Minutes of technical coordination meetings.
Revision documents and as-built documentation.
Must-Haves:**
Degree in electrical engineering (Dipl.-Ing./Master/Bachelor) with a focus on energy engineering or equivalent qualification (e.g. technician with extensive experience).
Several years of professional experience in primary planning of high and extra-high voltage switchgear (110 kV and above).
Excellent 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 energies (wind/PV).
Knowledge of secondary or control systems for switchgear.
Experience in project management or subproject management.
Familiarity with BIM methods.
Personal traits and mindset:**
Strong passion for technology and a highly precise, detail-oriented work style.
Analytical and systematic thinking to solve complex technical challenges.
Good communication and teamwork skills for interdisciplinary collaboration.
High sense of responsibility and reliability.
Willingness and ability to continuously learn new technologies and standards.