To support projects in the energy infrastructure sector, a freelance electrical engineer with a focus on high and extra-high voltage is sought as a Primary Planner (m/f/d). The projects include grid connections of generation plants (particularly wind and solar farms) as well as the construction and modification of substations.
Typical areas of responsibility in this role:**
Development of primary technical concepts and layouts for air- and gas-insulated high and extra-high voltage switchgear (AIS/GIS) from 110 kV to 380 kV.
Design and sizing of primary equipment (circuit breakers, disconnectors, instrument transformers, transformers, etc.).
Creation of wiring diagrams, single-line overviews, and arrangement drawings.
Performing short-circuit and load-flow calculations as well as sizing grounding systems and lightning protection.
Technical clarification and coordination with clients, grid operators, authorities, and suppliers.
Preparation of technical specifications and tender documents for primary technology.
Coordination with other disciplines such as secondary technology, structural engineering, and control systems.
Support during 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 (High Voltage Application Rules), 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 necessary plan revisions after approval < 5%.
Schedule adherence: Compliance with planning milestones according to the overall project schedule.
Cost efficiency: Adherence to budget targets for the planned primary technology.
Technical compliance: Successful acceptance of the installation by the grid operator without primary technical objections.
Interface management: Seamless coordination, measured by the number of delays in other disciplines caused by planning errors.
Special challenges, risks or specifics:**
High complexity and safety requirements in the high and extra-high voltage domain.
Necessity of exact compliance with grid connection guidelines (TAR) of the respective grid operators.
Long lead times and price fluctuations for large primary components.
Coordination in confined spaces, especially during modifications to existing facilities.
Increasing requirements due to the integration of renewable energies (e.g., reactive power management, FRT behavior).
Ensuring physical safety and occupational health in planning.
Concrete deliverables:**
Approval-ready primary technical planning documents (layouts, elevations, sections).
Final wiring diagrams and single-line diagrams.
Technical calculation reports (e.g., short-circuit withstand capability, grounding).
Prepared bills of quantities and technical specifications for procurement.
Protocols of technical coordination meetings.
Revision documents and as-built documentation.
Must-Haves:**
Degree in Electrical Engineering (Dipl.-Ing./M.Sc./B.Sc.) with a focus on power engineering or a comparable 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 (high voltage TAR).
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 technology of switchgear.
Experience in project management or subproject leadership.
Knowledge of BIM methods.
Personal qualities and mindset:**
Strong passion for technology and a highly precise and detail-oriented working style.
Analytical and systematic thinking to solve complex technical challenges.
Excellent communication and teamwork skills for interdisciplinary collaboration.
High sense of responsibility and reliability.
Willingness and ability to continuously learn new technologies and standards.