Design Engineer – Load Break Switch (Overhead & RMU Applications)

Job Description Load Break Switch (LBS) Design Engineer

Research & Development (R&D) / Medium Voltage Switchgear

Role Purpose

To design, develop, and validate Load Break Switches (LBS) for overhead distribution lines and RMU applications across all medium-voltage ratings (up to 36kV and beyond, depending on utility needs). The engineer will work with various insulation technologies (SF, Dry Air, Solid Insulation, and others), ensuring compliance with IEC standards, utility specifications, and global market requirements. The candidate must have proven, successful design experience in LBS engineering and be an expert in shunt vacuum interrupting solutions as part of modern SF-free LBS developments.

Key Responsibilities

• Design & Development:
• - Lead the design of LBS mechanisms, interrupters, and insulation systems for both overhead and RMU applications.
• - Integrate and optimize shunt vacuum interrupting solutions in LBS designs.
• - Adapt designs for different insulation media: SF, Dry Air, Solid Insulation, and alternative gases.
• - Create 2D/3D engineering drawings, models, and documentation.
• - Localize and optimize design for manufacturability, cost, and reliability.
• Testing & Validation:
• - Develop and execute type test plans as per IEC 62271-102, IEC 62271-200, and customer-specific requirements.
• - Coordinate with international test laboratories (KEMA, CESI, GCC Lab, etc.) for mechanical, dielectric, and breaking tests.
• - Conduct in-house prototype validation: temperature rise, short-time withstand, mechanical endurance, internal arc verification.
• Compliance & Standards:
• - Ensure product compliance with international standards and regional utility specifications (SEC, ENOWA, EWA, Aramco, DEWA, etc.).
• - Review customer compliance matrices and align product design accordingly.
• Innovation & Sustainability:
• - Contribute to development of SF-free LBS solutions using Dry Air, Shunt Vacuum, or alternative insulation gases.
• - Support initiatives for reducing carbon footprint, enhancing recyclability, and aligning with global sustainability targets.
• Value Engineering:
• - Apply cost-reduction and optimization strategies without compromising performance.
• - Use DFMEA and reliability analyses to ensure robust product designs.

Key Competencies

• Strong knowledge of MV Load Break Switch design for overhead and RMU applications.
• Expertise in shunt vacuum interrupting solutions for SF-free applications.
• Hands-on experience with multiple insulation technologies (SF, Dry Air, Solid, etc.).
• Proficiency in CAD tools (AutoCAD, SolidWorks, Inventor, etc.).
• Expertise in mechanical linkage design, contact systems, and dielectric design.
• Familiarity with IEC standards: IEC 62271-102, IEC 62271-200, and related MV standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills (TRV, dielectric clearances, temperature rise).
• Project management and team collaboration skills.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering.
• Minimum 5 years successful design experience in Load Break Switch development (overhead and/or RMU).
• Proven track record of passing international type tests for MV LBS products.
• Strong knowledge of MV ratings (up to 36kV, higher preferred).
• Demonstrated expertise in shunt vacuum interrupting solutions.
• Experience working with global utilities and international certification bodies.

Performance KPIs

• Successful completion of type tests with first-time pass rate.
• Contribution to SF-free product portfolio (Dry Air, Shunt Vacuum, alternative gases).
• Cost reduction achieved through design optimization.
• Timely completion of product designs and validation.
• Customer and certification body approvals with minimal non-conformities.