Senior Project Manager - Substation

Job description / Role

Job purpose:

To lead the successful execution of 3 nos. of each 132 kV substation EPC projects under a major power transmission company, ensuring full compliance with client specifications, project timelines, cost controls, quality benchmarks, and HSE requirements.

Key responsibilities:

1. Project leadership & delivery

• Manage the complete EPC lifecycle of 132 kV substation projects from design to handover.
• Drive engineering coordination, procurement planning, construction management, testing, and commissioning as per client guidelines.
• Ensure timely achievement of project milestones and proactive management of critical paths using Primavera (P6).

2. Client & stakeholder management

• Act as the primary liaison with client engineers, consultants, and project monitoring teams.
• Ensure all submittals (designs, drawings, material approvals, method statements) are aligned with client specifications.
• Prepare and present progress reports, look-aheads, and recovery plans during client progress meetings.

3. Contractual & commercial oversight

• Interpret and implement client project contracts, including FIDIC-based clauses.
• Manage claims, variations, EOTs, and ensure timely billing and collection of certified payments.
• Lead procurement follow-ups to ensure delivery compliance with client-approved vendors.

4. Quality, safety & compliance

• Enforce QA/QC protocols aligned with client quality standards and ISO norms.
• Conduct regular HSE audits, toolbox talks, and ensure zero non-compliance during client inspections.
• Coordinate with third-party labs and testing agencies for FAT, SAT, and pre-commissioning activities.

5. Team & resource management

• Lead multidisciplinary site teams including engineers, QA/QC, HSE, civil, MEP, and subcontractors.
• Mentor site managers and construction teams for client project-specific documentation and reporting standards.
• Ensure adequate manpower, equipment, and materials are deployed to avoid site delays.

Qualifications & experience:

• Education: Bachelor's degree in electrical, electronics, or power engineering.
• Experience: Minimum 15-20 years in substation EPC execution with at least 5-7 years handling client projects.
• Knowledge: Familiarity with client standard specifications, procedures, submittal templates, and approval protocols.
• Certifications: PMP or equivalent preferred; client safety passport is mandatory or to be obtained upon hiring.
• Arabic speaking nationals are preferred.

Skills required:

• Hands-on experience managing EHV GIS substations.
• Proficiency in project planning tools (Primavera P6, MS Project).
• Strong client-facing and communication skills with experience handling client weekly/monthly meetings.
• Working knowledge of vendor interfaces for major equipment (GIS, power transformers, protection systems, SAS).
• Sound understanding of UAE authority approvals (CICPA, ADDC, Civil Defense, etc.) and construction regulations.

About the Company

We lead in the creation and delivery of innovative workforce solutions and services that enable our clients to win in the changing world of work.

ManpowerGroup powers the success of many of the world's most dynamic organizations. We deliver innovative workforce solutions that enhance competitiveness, increase efficiency and spur productivity. Combining global reach with local expertise - 3600 offices in over 80 countries - we know the changing world of work and bring a deep understanding of the companies we work for and the industries we service.

ManpowerGroup entered the Middle East in December 2007 after acquiring local company Clarendon Parker, thus bringing 15 years in-depth local knowledge combined with a global footprint and industry shaping expertise and thought leadership. Manpower Middle East supports clients in the Middle East and North Africa regions. Our business is aligned to key skill specializations to ensure our clients requirements are met by expert and knowledgeable consultants that understand your industry and role requirement.

Our consultants are experts in finding the right talent across all industries in a broad-range of occupations including:

• IT & Telecommunications
• Engineering & Construction, Oil & Gas
• Banking, Finance & Legal
• Sales & Business Development
• Marketing, Public Relations & Communications
• Human Resources & Training
• Customer & Support Services (Secretarial and Administrative)
• Operational, Supply Chain & Logistics
• Executive Recruitment
• Emiratization Solutions
• Recruitment Program Outsourcing Solutions
• Managed Service Provider Solutions
• Talent Based Outsourcing Solutions
• Outsourced Staffing Solutions