Raizal Ali

Experience

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  Engineer Procure Construct (Fiji) Ltd

  Sept 2007 - Aug 2011

  Electrical Design Engineer

  As an Electrical Engineer, I assisted in the preparation of bid documents, proposals, and tender packages, alongside maintenance manuals and risk analyses, while providing technical support during the procurement process. I proficiently executed high-voltage design tasks in accordance with AS 2067-2008, which included developing Single Line Diagrams (SLDs), Protection SLDs, control building layouts, clearance distances, earthing grids, CAD weld systems, and switchyard general arrangement drawings. My expertise extended to designing cable routes, switchyard lighting systems, lightning protection systems, and fire protection measures, as well as transformer layouts and battery bank configurations.I worked on multiple substation projects across Fiji and managed the procurement of materials for 132kV power system protection upgrades throughout the region. Additionally, I conducted civil and structural design work, covering essential aspects such as earthworks, roadways, cable trenches, drainage systems, oil containment pits, and foundation designs. My role involved the design and drafting of transmission and distribution systems, which included switchboards, power poles, and transmission tower designs up to 132kV. I developed protection systems using contract specifications, creating protection schematics and specifying SEL relays, grounding, and lightning protection systems, while managing equipment selection and substation security protocols.In managing design processes, I led both civil and electrical design teams, supervising junior engineers and draftspersons, and performed site visits to ensure compliance with AS/NZ and utility standards. A highlight of my career was successfully leading the design and project management of a heat treatment turnkey facility for the Sugar Research Institute Fiji, ensuring seamless execution and the achievement of project objectives. Show less

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  Pacific Services Group Pty Ltd

  Feb 2012 - Jan 2013

  Electrical Engineer

  In my role as an Electrical Engineer, I was involved in electrical maintenance works and the design of cabling systems, including the development of cable tray layouts for projects at Adelaide University. My responsibilities included preparing and submitting project documentation, such as drawings, manuals, and reports, to ensure compliance with project requirements. I developed work programs using Microsoft Project, aligning tasks with business needs to optimize project efficiency.Additionally, I coordinated building services utilizing AutoCAD, ensuring seamless integration of electrical systems within the overall design. I also attended meetings with customers to discuss project progress, fostering strong communication and collaboration to address any concerns and ensure project success. Show less

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  Lend Lease

  Jan 2013 - Jun 2014

  Design Engineer

  In my role as an Electrical Design Engineer, I specialized in drafting to ElectraNet Utility and Australian Standards using Microstation and Descartes, with a strong emphasis on adhering to drafting standards as outlined in the ElectraNet Substation Design Manual. I played a crucial role in the 132kV Substation AC Panel Upgrade Project, which involved a brownfield site environment. My responsibilities included preparing Inspection Test Plans (ITPS), Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS), and Work Methodology Plans to ensure compliance with both Australian and ElectraNet standards.I was dedicated to producing high-quality substation and power station drawings and schematics for ElectraNet, ensuring all drafts met the stringent requirements set forth in the Substation Design Manual. Additionally, I utilized Smart Plant Foundation and Data Loader programs to keep design drawings current within the ElectraNet system. My role also encompassed the preparation of operation and maintenance manuals and document management to support project success. I regularly conducted substation site visits and participated in project review meetings with clients and project managers, promoting collaboration and alignment with project objectives. Show less

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  Engineer Procure Construct (Fiji) Ltd

  Jun 2016 - May 2017

  Electrical Project Engineer

  As Electrical Engineer, I provided comprehensive guidance and mentorship to engineers and draftspersons in the design and construction of substations, ensuring the seamless integration of electrical and civil engineering disciplines. I led teams in various substation projects, maintaining strict adherence to project specifications and industry standards. By collaborating closely with technicians, I effectively planned job assignments and reviewed bills of materials to ensure efficient resource allocation and smooth project execution.Utilizing tools such as MS Project, Excel, and MS Word, I managed project planning and reporting, tracking progress while facilitating clear communication among all stakeholders. I conducted regular site inspections to ensure compliance with safety regulations, promptly identifying and resolving any project issues to meet deadlines. Significant projects I oversaw include the Volivoli 33kV Substation and the Tavua 33kV Substation Extension, where I directed all stages of execution to achieve successful completion.My role also involved actively engaging stakeholders by attending meetings with utility engineers, project coordinators, and technicians, fostering collaboration to drive project success. Additionally, I managed the procurement of engineering equipment and structures, working closely with vendors and suppliers to secure materials within budget and timeline constraints. Through this experience, I developed strong expertise in substation project management, safety compliance, and stakeholder communication, positioning myself as a proactive leader in the power infrastructure sector. Show less

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  Clay Energy

  May 2017 - Feb 2023

  Project Manager

  As a Project Manager in the renewable energy sector, I successfully led the execution of small to large-scale projects across the Pacific region, including some of the largest PV systems in the South Pacific. Managing most projects remotely from the office, I ensured seamless execution from inception to completion, even overcoming challenges such as COVID-19 disruptions while maintaining strict adherence to project timelines and budgets.I utilized MS Project to develop comprehensive project schedules and Excel to create detailed cash flows and reports, optimizing project planning and tracking. My role involved high-level project reporting to senior management and stakeholders, ensuring transparency in project progress, financials, and resource allocation. I effectively managed resource and procurement activities, coordinating both local and overseas material acquisitions, despite the global supply chain disruptions caused by the pandemic. I fostered strong stakeholder relationships, managing communication to ensure customer satisfaction throughout the project lifecycle. I adhered to internal and external quality improvement initiative while expertly managed change requests, assessing their impact and implementing necessary variations to control costs and ensure project success.Key achievements included managing solar streetlight initiatives across Fiji, as well as the construction of solar farms with capacities up to 6.9MW, ensuring project execution aligned with organizational goals. I supervised construction teams while overlooking procurement, providing guidance to drive performance, and ensured comprehensive documentation through Progress Reports, Execution Plans, Job Safety Analyses (JSAs), and Maintenance Manuals.My responsibilities also included conducting site meetings and inspections to ensure compliance with specifications, and collaborating closely with clients, engineering teams, and construction crews to achieve project objectives. Show less

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  Solar Head of State

  Apr 2021 - now

  Project Manager

  As a remote Project Manager for Solar Head of State which was based in the U.S., I directed comprehensive project management initiatives overseeing photovoltaic (PV) system implementations across 11 member countries of the Pacific Island Development Forum. I spearheaded procurement and logistics operations for critical equipment, such as inverters, batteries, and PV modules, ensuring seamless project execution with donor funding. I assisted in equipment selection and ordering while overseeing logistics to various PIDF member countries, many of which were very remotely located across the Pacific. By implementing rigorous monitoring and tracking mechanisms, I successfully managed project progress and cash flow, ensuring strict adherence to timelines and budgetary constraints. I provided expert technical assistance to project partners and subcontractors, fostering collaboration and ensuring high-quality outcomes. Additionally, I proficiently crafted tender and contract documentation and actively contributed to contractor selection processes, ensuring alignment with project objectives and regulatory requirements. My skills in project planning, scheduling, and cash flow analysis further optimized timelines and resource utilization, enhancing overall project efficiency and effectiveness. Show less