Job Description
Job Title: BESS Development Manager
Location: UK-wide/Remote with Travel
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Competitive, based on experience and qualifications
Role Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and technically proficient BESS Development Manager to lead and manage the technical execution and coordination across all phases of utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in bridging project development, engineering, construction, and operations to ensure successful and compliant delivery of energy storage solutions.
This is a multidisciplinary role involving technical design, vendor evaluation, stakeholder engagement, grid integration, and continuous improvement, ideally suited to candidates with a strong background in electrical engineering, energy storage systems, and power system integration.
Key Responsibilities:
Pre-Development Phase - Technical Planning
* Evaluate, compare, and recommend appropriate BESS technologies and configurations based on project-specific requirements (e.g. duration, capacity, environmental conditions).
* Develop preliminary system design concepts and configuration plans to meet grid code and project performance objectives.
* Coordinate early-stage grid compliance assessments with DNOs, TSOs, and grid consultants, ensuring feasibility and risk mitigation from the outset.
Development Phase - Design & Procurement
* Define detailed technical specifications for BESS systems, SCADA/EMS, and supporting infrastructure.
* Lead technical workstreams during the EPC and BESS vendor selection process, including bid evaluation, compliance assessment, and technical clarifications.
* Conduct and coordinate thorough reviews of vendor proposals for technical compliance, warranty conditions, and long-term performance expectations.
* Support the planning and execution of Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT) and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT), ensuring milestones are achieved to specification and quality standards.
* Review design documentation for completeness and integration readiness, including BoP (Balance of Plant) engineering, SCADA integration, and interface with grid systems.
* Oversee and provide technical support during site installation and commissioning phases, ensuring execution matches design intent.
Technical Stakeholder Coordination
* Act as the lead technical interface for EPCs, BESS vendors, DNOs, consultants, and other technical advisors throughout the project lifecycle.
* Represent the technical team in key meetings, ensuring alignment between technical deliverables and project goals.
* Work closely with internal Project Managers to monitor technical progress and align with construction schedules and milestones.
Operational Feedback & Technical Optimisation
* Collaborate with O&M teams to review operational performance data and identify areas for improvement or design enhancements.
* Integrate lessons learned from commissioned assets into the design and specification of future projects.
* Support root cause analysis for operational issues and coordinate corrective actions with vendors and O&M providers.
Additional Technical Responsibilities
* Contribute to risk assessments, lifecycle cost evaluations, and bankability reviews of BESS configurations.
* Define strategies for asset monitoring, remote diagnostics, and long-term performance measurement using KPIs.
* Stay informed of evolving regulatory, grid, and technology developments affecting BESS design, integration, and operation.
Required Skills & Experience:
* Degree in Electrical Engineering, Energy Systems, or related technical discipline (Master's preferred).
* Proven experience in utility-scale BESS project development and technical management.
* Strong knowledge of BESS technology, SCADA/EMS systems, and grid integration principles.
* Solid understanding of UK grid codes, DNO/TSO processes, and connection agreements.
* Experience coordinating with EPCs, OEMs, and system integrators.
* Ability to interpret technical documentation, perform engineering reviews, and engage in technical negotiations.
* Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and reporting skills.
Desirable:
* Chartered Engineer (CEng) or working towards professional registration.
* Familiarity with HV and MV electrical infrastructure.
* Experience in Factory and Site Acceptance Testing.
* Understanding of battery warranties, degradation models, and performance guarantees.
* Experience working in fast-paced, multidisciplinary energy environments.
What We Offer:
* Competitive salary and benefits package
* Hybrid or remote working options
* Opportunities for growth in a rapidly expanding sector
* Collaborative, mission-driven company culture
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