Chief Engineer – Power Systems & Grid Operations (Renewable Energy)
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (family status available)
About the Role
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced engineering leader to take ownership of Grid Control & Operations across a portfolio of utility-scale renewable energy projects.
This role sits at the forefront of the energy transition, providing technical leadership across large-scale solar PV, wind, battery energy storage systems (BESS), hybrid power plants, and complex microgrid applications.
You will lead engineering activities throughout the project lifecycle – from conceptual design and grid studies through to commissioning, operations, and performance optimisation – ensuring assets operate safely, reliably, and in full compliance with grid requirements.
Key Responsibilities
Grid Operations & Control
- Lead grid control and real-time operational strategies for utility-scale renewable energy assets
- Develop and define control philosophies for inverter-based resources, including solar PV, BESS, and wind power plants
- Oversee network control centre functions, including AGC and dispatch systems
- Ensure seamless integration of renewable assets into transmission and distribution networks
Power System Studies & Grid Integration
- Lead and review advanced power system studies using PSS®E, PSCAD, and DIgSILENT
- Evaluate system performance under weak grid and complex operating conditions
- Validate system behaviour through RTDS and Hardware-in-the-Loop (HIL) simulations
- Ensure compliance with international grid codes and utility requirements
- Identify technical risks during bidding and project development and implement mitigation strategies
Communication & Control Systems
- Define communication and SCADA architectures for renewable power plants
- Specify and oversee implementation of protocols including IEC 61850, IEC 60870-5-104, and Modbus
- Ensure reliable integration between plant controllers, EMS, SCADA, and grid infrastructure
Testing, Commissioning & Performance Optimisation
- Lead commissioning activities for renewable generation and grid interconnection projects
- Support testing, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis of operational issues
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence across the portfolio
- Capture lessons learned and translate them into enhanced control and operational philosophies
About You
You are an experienced power systems or controls engineer with a passion for solving complex technical challenges in renewable energy and grid integration.
You will ideally have:
- 20+ years of experience within power systems, grid control, or energy infrastructure
- 10+ years of experience in technical leadership or engineering management roles
- Deep expertise in renewable energy integration, grid stability, and inverter-based resources
- Proven experience working on large-scale (>1 GW) projects or highly complex grid environments
- Strong understanding of power electronics, including solar PV inverters, BESS, and wind turbine technologies
- Experience engaging with utilities, grid operators, and key project stakeholders
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a related discipline
- Master's degree in Power Systems (required)
- PhD in Power Systems or a related field will be considered an advantage
Why Apply
- Lead technically complex and industry-leading renewable energy projects
- Influence the future of grid-connected renewable generation and energy storage
- Work across solar PV, wind, BESS, hybrid systems, and emerging energy technologies
- Join a business at the forefront of the global energy transition
