Project Engineer - BESS

On.Energy; Reston, Houston (VA, TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary + performance bonus

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid time off and company holidays

Job summary

On.Energy in Reston, VA is looking for a Project Engineer to support engineering execution for Battery Energy Storage System projects from development to commissioning. This role involves technical oversight and collaboration with various stakeholders such as clients and construction teams.

Candidates should possess a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering, along with at least 3 years of project engineering experience. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are essential, and the role offers a hybrid work option.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in project engineering, preferably in BESS or data center sectors.
• Strong understanding of electrical system design and equipment layouts.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.

Responsibilities

• Support the end-to-end engineering execution of BESS projects.
• Coordinate with internal teams to ensure project milestones are met.
• Review and validate system designs to ensure compliance and quality.

Skills

Project engineering experience

Familiarity with energy storage systems

Electrical schematics understanding

Proficiency in Microsoft Office

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

ETAP

Job description

Location

Remote considered / Houston, TX or Mclean, VA preferred.

Travel

Up to 30% to project sites across the US, occasionally 50%.

Overview

• Support the end-to-end engineering execution of BESS projects for data centers, from development to commissioning.
• Manage the technical scope of projects and serve as the technical point of contract to the project manager.
• Coordinate with internal engineering, procurement, and construction teams to ensure project milestones are met.
• Collaborate with customers, EPC contractors, OEMs, and design consultants on integration of BESS with data center electrical infrastructure.
• Review and validate system designs (electrical, civil, mechanical) and vendor submittals to ensure technical compliance and quality.
• Design and develop Single line diagrams, Schematics, Wiring diagrams for Battery storage systems
• Prepare Electrical Equipment Specifications, Data Sheets, Purchase Requisitions and Bid evaluations for inverters, Switchgear, Transformers and other electrical equipment as required
• Develop Short circuit, load flow, and arc flash studies using software such as ETAP.
• Assist in developing project schedules, procurement plans, and technical documentation.
• Conduct site walks and support field activities during installation and commissioning.
• Participate in Factory and Site Acceptance Testing (FAT/SAT) of BESS components and systems.
• Identify technical risks and propose mitigation strategies in coordination with Project Management.
• Ensure all work is compliant with relevant codes (e.g., NEC, IEEE, NFPA) and On Energy Storage’s internal standards.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or other engineering discipline.
• 3+ years of experience in project engineering, preferably within the BESS, electrical infrastructure, or data center sectors.
• Familiarity with energy storage systems (CATL, Sungrow, Tesla, etc.) and high-voltage infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and equipment layouts.
• Strong understanding of the electrical system design, system studies, relay coordination, and protection & control.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, AutoCAD, power system study programs (Ex. ETAP, SKM).
• Basic understanding of Civil, Mechanical, and Structural work.
• Ability to read and understand project owner specifications and engineering drawings.
• Ability to manage subcontractors and drive schedule of Engineering activities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects concurrently.
• Ability to problem solve issues and have an “outside the box” mentality.
• Strong attention to detail, with the ability to recognize discrepancies.
• Able to produce clear and concise documentation.
• Strong work ethic.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work with clients and staff in a team.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and cross-functional coordination skills.
• Ability to travel to project sites across the U.S. as needed (up to 50%).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working on EPC or design-build projects in the energy or critical infrastructure sector in North America.
• Familiarity with commissioning protocols and QA/QC procedures for electrical systems.
• PE or EIT certification is a plus.
• Hybrid in Houston or Mclean office 3 days a week.

Benefits

For US-based roles - What you’ll get:

• Competitive salary + annual performance-based bonus eligibility
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off and company holidays

For Mexico-based roles - What you’ll get:

• Competitive salary + annual performance bonus eligibility
• Major medical expenses and life insurance
• Paid time off and holidays (per local policy)

For all roles:

• Professional development and growth opportunities
• Opportunity to grow with a mission-driven team shaping the future of clean energy
• Equal Opportunity: ON.energy is committed to equal employment opportunity and to maintaining a work environment free of harassment, discrimination, or retaliation.
• Benefits vary by role and location and are subject to change.