Grid Development Engineer - BESS & Data Center

Leap29; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

Leap29 is seeking a Grid Development Engineer to lead interconnection efforts for utility-scale BESS and Data Center projects across the U.S. You will navigate complex interconnection processes and work closely with ISOs and utilities.

The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering and 3–7 years of relevant experience. Excellent communication skills and familiarity with grid modeling tools are essential for success in this role.

Qualifications

• 3–7 years experience in utility interconnection, preferably with BESS or Renewables.
• Strong understanding of U.S. transmission and distribution systems.
• Proven ability to navigate interconnection queues and utility processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical and regulatory efforts for grid interconnections.
• Develop and manage interconnection applications for BESS and data centers.
• Analyze grid capacity and congestion to identify project locations.

Skills

Utility interconnection

Grid modeling tools

Project management

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Electrical Engineering

Tools

PSSE

PSCAD

PowerWorld

ASPEN

Job description

Grid Development Engineer – BESS & Data Centers (USA Grid Connections) Leap29 are searching for a Grid Development Engineer to lead interconnection efforts for utility scale BESS and Data Center infrastructure across the U.S. You’ll focus on navigating complex grid interconnection processes with ISOs, RTOs, and utilities nationwide.

Responsibilities

• Lead technical and regulatory efforts for grid interconnections across various U.S. markets (ERCOT, MISO, NYISO, PJM, CAISO, etc.).
• Develop and manage interconnection applications for BESS and hyperscale data centers.
• Collaborate with utilities, ISOs/RTOs, and internal teams on interconnection studies, modeling, and compliance requirements.
• Analyze grid capacity, congestion, and queue dynamics to identify viable project locations.
• Interpret power flow, dynamic, and short circuit study results; propose mitigation strategies as needed.
• Coordinate with engineering, development, and policy teams to align project goals with interconnection timelines.
• Support site acquisition and permitting teams with grid feasibility insights and constraints.

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor's or Master’s in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related field.
• 3–7 years experience in utility interconnection, preferably with BESS or Renewables, Data Center experience is a plus.
• Strong understanding of U.S. transmission and distribution systems, NERC/FERC standards, and interconnection rules.
• Familiarity with grid modeling tools (e.g., PSSE, PSCAD, PowerWorld, ASPEN).
• Proven ability to navigate interconnection queues, GIAs, and utility coordination processes.
• Experience working with major ISOs/RTOs (PJM, MISO, CAISO, ERCOT, etc.).
• Excellent communication and project management skills.
• PE license or progress toward licensure is a plus.