Operation Engineer

Job TitleOperation Engineer – Solar Power PlantLocationQatarDepartmentOperations & Maintenance (O&M)Reports ToMaintenance Supervisor (Power)Job SummaryThe Operation Engineer – Solar Power Plant is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation, maintenance, and switching of MV/HV electrical systems associated with solar power plants and grid interconnections. The role includes high-voltage switching, technical supervision, planning and scheduling, coordination with Kahramaa (KM), contract administration, commissioning support, and ensuring full compliance with technical, HSE, and QatarEnergy requirements.Key ResponsibilitiesOperations & High-Voltage SwitchingExecute and authorize high-voltage switching operations for 220 kV and 33 kV systems in line with approved technical procedures and HSE requirements.Exercise broad authority to plan and perform switching activities, ensuring safe isolation, energization, and restoration of electrical systems.Possess strong hands‑on experience with 220 kV GIS systems and 33 kV AIS substations within solar power plants or utility networks.Coordinate switching activities with Kahramaa (KM), control rooms, and site stakeholders to ensure uninterrupted and safe operations.Kahramaa Authorization & InterfaceSuccessfully undergo and pass Kahramaa training, familiarization, and certification as a 220 kV Substation Switching Engineer within three (3) months of assignment.Act as the technical interface with Kahramaa for day‑to‑day operational coordination, system interruptions, and planned outages.Monitor power import and export between the solar power plant and Kahramaa grid and lead the monthly invoicing and billing process.Maintain full compliance with KM operational, technical, and safety standards at all times.Technical Support & SupervisionProvide technical leadership and guidance to all Technicians reporting to this position, ensuring they possess the required competence and authorization.Support skill development, on‑the‑job training, and safe execution of electrical works.Supervise Technicians during site execution to ensure timely, efficient, and high‑quality completion of assigned work orders.Planning, Scheduling & Work ExecutionSupport the Maintenance Supervisor (Power) in planning and scheduling preventive and corrective maintenance activities in line with asset management policies.Create, manage, and close SAP work orders, ensuring proper scope definition, prioritization, and resource allocation.Arrange materials, tools, spare parts, and logistics to support maintenance and operational activities.Scope of Work & ContractingPrepare detailed scopes of work, technical specifications, basic drawings, and BOQs for outsourced maintenance and service contracts.Administer maintenance contracts by creating Release Orders and Service Entry Sheets (SES) in a timely manner.Manage day‑to‑day coordination and performance of contractor managers and supervisors.Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)Lead start‑of‑shift meetings, toolbox talks, and safety briefings.Ensure all risk assessments, permits to work (PTW), JHA, electrical authorizations, and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) requirements are completed and approved prior to authorizing work.Promote a strong safety culture and ensure compliance with QatarEnergy, KM, and site‑specific HSE procedures.Troubleshooting & Reliability SupportUndertake troubleshooting of electrical systems and equipment within the assigned area to minimize downtime and operational risk.Support the Reliability Engineer in conducting RCA, FMEA, and continuous improvement initiatives.Close‑Outs, Commissioning & HandoverVerify completion of work orders and update SAP with accurate details of materials consumed and actual labor hours.Participate in commissioning and handover of new or modified equipment, including:Verification of project dossiersReview of as‑built drawingsValidation of maintenance manuals and vendor documentationAdministration and tracking of equipment warrantiesQualifications & ExperienceEducationBachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering from an internationally recognized university or equivalent.ExperienceMinimum 10–12 years of experience in electrical engineering and technical practices related to power transmission and distribution systems.Proven experience in 220 kV and 33 kV switching operations, preferably in solar power plants, utilities, or large industrial facilities.Technical ExpertiseStrong working knowledge of MV/HV power systems and maintenance practices.Hands‑on experience with:Power Transformers220 kV GIS33V AISHVAC systemsFire Water PumpsFire & Gas SystemsProficiency in SAP PM for maintenance planning, execution, and close‑out.Skills & CompetenciesStrong leadership and supervisory skillsExcellent coordination and stakeholder management abilitiesHigh level of safety awareness and risk management capabilityStrong analytical, troubleshooting, and decision‑making skillsAbility to work independently in a high‑risk, mission‑criti