Director of Operations - Energy Storage (BESS EPC)

Energy Vault; Aurora (IL); On-site; USD 190,000 - 250,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in energy storage seeks a Director of Operations for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) projects nationwide. This strategic leadership role involves overseeing engineering, planning, and construction execution while ensuring safety and quality standards. Candidates must possess strong project management skills, extensive experience in energy storage systems, and leadership capabilities to deliver innovative solutions.

Benefits

Paid Company Holidays

Paid Time Off

Medical, Dental, Vision Coverage

FSA/HSA

Short Term/Long Term Disability

401K with matching contribution

Qualifications

• 10+ years of construction experience, especially in electrical infrastructure or energy projects.
• 3+ years managing Battery Energy Storage Systems projects.
• Deep understanding of energy storage technologies and project financing.

Responsibilities

• Establish a safety-first culture across all project sites.
• Lead and mentor interdisciplinary project teams.
• Ensure high performance and quality of BESS facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Project Management

Communication

Customer Relations

Safety Management

Team Building

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management

Bachelor's degree in Project Management

Job description

The Director of Operations – BESS will provide strategic leadership, direction, and oversight of engineering, planning, procurement, start-up, and construction execution for self-perform Battery Energy Storage Systems projects across the U.S. This individual will bring deep knowledge of the BESS lifecycle—ranging from pre-construction planning to commissioning and handover—while prioritizing safety, quality, schedule, and budget. The ideal candidate has a strong foundation in energy storage systems, project management, leadership, and customer relations.

This role requires a demonstrated ability to lead complex technical projects, build and mentor high-performing teams, and deliver innovative storage solutions that meet or exceed client expectations.

Primary Job Responsibilities:

• Safety:
  Establish a culture of safety and accountability across all BESS project sites. Ensure all operations meet or exceed regulatory and internal safety standards. Promote a proactive, “Zero Incident” mindset focused on eliminating life-altering events.
• Leadership:
  Lead, mentor, and support project teams to implement best-in-class project management practices in the unique context of energy storage. Foster a leadership culture that prioritizes clarity, accountability, collaboration, and technical excellence.
• High Performance Teams:
  Recruit, develop, and retain top-tier talent with BESS experience. Build interdisciplinary teams (engineering, field operations, commissioning, etc.) that are aligned with project goals. Encourage team collaboration that ensures seamless transitions across project phases.
• Quality Product:
  Deliver high-performing BESS facilities that meet or exceed performance guarantees and contractual requirements. Maintain strict adherence to BESS engineering standards, supplier specifications, testing protocols, and quality assurance programs.
• Customer Service:
  Build strong relationships with BESS clients, EPC partners, utilities, and developers. Anticipate client needs, provide consistent communication, and deliver on commitments. Drive customer satisfaction by focusing on long-term performance and cost-effectiveness of the system.
• On-Time Execution:
  Lead the development and execution of integrated project schedules, emphasizing milestone-based planning and proactive risk management. Apply scheduling tools and dashboards to ensure each phase of BESS development—from permitting to commissioning—is delivered on time.
• Operational Excellence:
  Drive process improvement, Lean thinking, and lessons-learned initiatives focused on BESS deployment. Deliver consistent, reliable results through improved execution, lower risk, and innovative construction and commissioning strategies.
• Fiscal Responsibility:
  Lead BESS project budgeting, forecasting, and cost management processes to achieve financial targets. Ensure predictable fiscal outcomes through strong project controls, cash flow oversight, and timely invoicing. Maintain accountability for financial health of each project.
• Talent Development:

Actively mentor team members with a focus on leadership development, technical training in BESS systems, and long-term career growth. Implement a feedback-driven culture that values continuous improvement and professional development.

Minimum Qualifications:

• 10+ years of construction experience, with a strong background in electrical infrastructure or energy projects.
• 3+ years of experience specifically managing Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) or energy storage-related projects required.
• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, or related field from an accredited university; or equivalent (8 years of relevant experience).
• Demonstrated experience in project and construction management, with leadership over large-scale infrastructure or renewable energy projects.
• Deep understanding of energy storage technologies, electrical interconnection, system commissioning, and project financing requirements.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills; excellent verbal and written communication.
• Valid driver's license and ability to travel extensively across the U.S.
• Valid passport for occasional international travel.

Benefits and Pay:
• Paid Company Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• We provide paid sick leave as required by Colorado’s Healthy Families and Workplaces Act.
• Medical, Dental, Vision, FSA/HSA, Short Term/Long Term Disability, 401K with matching contribution.
• Salary $190,000 - $250,000 annually, dependent on experience, qualifications, and competencies

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