BESS Engineer 1 (Controls)

BESS Engineer 1 (Controls)
Job Description

Position Type: Full-Time
Travel Requirement: Required
Job Location: Multistate

About Us
National Electrical Engineering Consultants (NEEC) provides full-service engineering and field support for utilities and renewable developers across the United States. Our core expertise includes Protection & Control (P&C) Substations, Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), Solar, and Renewable Energy Integration. NEEC's commissioning team ensures that every system operates safely, efficiently, and in compliance with the highest industry standards.

About the Role

This is a full-time, field-based role for a BESS Engineer I supporting NEEC projects throughout the United States. The role supports the testing, commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and technical verification of utility-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

Candidates with backgrounds in controls, industrial automation, electrical engineering, instrumentation, mechatronics, or PLC/SCADA systems are strongly encouraged to apply. Previous BESS experience is preferred but not required.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the testing, commissioning, startup, troubleshooting, and maintenance of utility-scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
• Assist with testing and verification of BESS equipment, including battery systems, PCS/inverters, transformers, switchgear, auxiliary power systems, fire suppression systems, thermal management systems, and associated controls and communications.
• Perform electrical and functional testing using approved procedures, drawings, and appropriate test equipment.
• Troubleshoot electrical, mechanical, communication, and control-related issues and assist with identifying root causes and corrective actions.
• Read and interpret single-line diagrams, electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, control schematics, I/O lists, network drawings, and technical documentation.
• Verify and document power, communication, and control signals between BESS equipment and associated systems.
• Support point-to-point checks, I/O verification, functional testing, and system validation during commissioning.
• Work alongside OEM and controls teams during the integration and troubleshooting of BMS, PCS/inverters, SCADA, EMS, PPC, PLCs, and plant communication systems.
• Gain hands-on exposure to industrial communications and networking used within BESS facilities, including Ethernet, fiber optics, IP-based equipment, managed switches, and industrial communication protocols.
• Monitor and troubleshoot alarms, fault codes, equipment parameters, interlocks, permissives, and operating sequences during commissioning.
• Support Site Acceptance Testing (SAT), startup, and integrated system testing when required.
• Review electrical and control drawings in the field, identify discrepancies, and assist with redlines and as-built documentation.
• Maintain accurate test records, commissioning documentation, deficiency logs, troubleshooting notes, and daily activity reports.
• Collaborate with NEEC engineers and technicians, OEM representatives, EPC contractors, utilities, customers, and other project stakeholders.
• Execute assigned project activities with attention to detail, effective communication, and awareness of project milestones.
• Follow all NEEC, customer, and site-specific LOTO, electrical safety, PPE, and high-voltage safety requirements.
• Travel extensively throughout the United States and work outside normal business hours when required by project commissioning schedules.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering required, preferably Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation/Controls Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline.
• 0-3 years of relevant experience in electrical systems, controls, automation, commissioning, renewable energy, or industrial environments.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, single-line drawings, and control documentation.
• Strong electrical and technical troubleshooting skills.
• Familiarity with PLCs, SCADA/HMI, instrumentation, I/O, industrial controls, or communications systems preferred.
• Ability to perform system inspections, functional testing, and use common electrical test equipment.
• Strong documentation, reporting, communication, and teamwork skills.
• Expert with Microsoft Office Suite Programs.
• Ability to work independently while following LOTO and site safety requirements.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel extensively throughout the United States.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Experience or exposure to BESS, PCS/inverters, EMS/SCADA, solar, wind, or other power systems.
• Familiarity with Rockwell, Siemens, Schneider, Automation Direct, or similar controls platforms.
• Exposure to industrial networking, Ethernet, fiber optics, Modbus, or similar communication systems.
• Previous commissioning, FAT/SAT, point-to-point, or I/O checkout experience.

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Overtime pay for hours worked over 40 per week
• A competitive and comprehensive benefits package
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Life & AD&D insurance
• 401(k) plan with company match
• Vacation, sick time, and company holidays
• Annual performance incentive opportunities
• Professional development and career growth opportunities
• A dynamic, growth-oriented work environment committed to innovation and excellence

Equal Employment Opportunity
NEEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, gender identity, or any other factor protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws.