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
• Exposure to cutting-edge energy storage technologies
• Opportunities for growth in a rapidly expanding sector
• Collaborative, mission-driven company culture