Design Lead - Hybrid Plant Controller
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Experience: 8-14 years
Overview
A leading renewable energy business is seeking a Design Lead to manage the engineering design of Plant Master Controllers (PMC) for hybrid renewable plants, integrating Solar PV and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). This role involves developing control philosophies, ensuring grid compliance, leading a multi-discipline team, and delivering high-quality engineering outputs on time and within budget.
Key Responsibilities
- Design and develop the Plant Master Controller (PMC) control philosophy for hybrid renewable plants, covering power factor, voltage control, power curtailment, VAR control, ramp rate, and black start requirements, ensuring compliance with grid codes and system operator requirements
- Define PMC response times and validate black start capabilities for standalone grid restoration
- Ensure seamless integration of PMC with SCADA, BMS, substation control systems, and utility data centres, including cyber security compliance
- Support pre-award vendor evaluations for technical compliance and provide validation to Supply Chain teams
- Coordinate spatial requirements, cut-outs, and system interface with Design Leads of other disciplines (e.g., AC systems)
- Plan and allocate man-hours for engineering deliverables
- Ensure timely delivery of engineering drawings, documents, and vendor submissions, obtaining all necessary approvals
- Provide technical support and clarifications to the site execution team
Technical Expertise
- Strong knowledge of PV/BESS plant SCADA, Power Plant Controller, Energy Management Systems, and grid integration of hybrid plants
- Hands-on experience in PMC design, power system control strategies, and grid compliance
- Familiarity with industrial communication protocols including IEC 61850, DNP3, Modbus, and OPC
- Experience with historian data analysis, alarm management, and cybersecurity standards
- Understanding of Middle East power regulations and utility compliance requirements
- Proven ability to lead engineering teams including engineers and draughtspersons
Key Value Drivers
- On-time delivery of engineering outputs
- Identification and mitigation of technical and operational risks
- Productivity and cost optimisation
- Quality assurance and compliance
- Customer satisfaction and service excellence
- Standardisation and process digitalisation
Software Skills
- Proficiency with MS Office
- Familiarity with engineering software tools related to PMC, SCADA, and BESS systems
Qualifications
- B.E./B.Tech./M.Tech in Electrical, Electrical & Electronics, Instrumentation, or related Engineering disciplines