Sr. Project Engineer - PV + BESS
About Elevate
Elevate is dedicated to deploying reliable energy solutions that power communities. We focus on enabling the future of energy through large-scale projects like digital and data center expansions, and supporting a more resilient, electrified grid.
Position Summary
In this Senior Project Engineer role, you will be responsible for overseeing the design and execution of BESS and PV+BESS projects from 30% design through to commercial operation. Reporting to the Sr. Director of Project Engineering, you will manage engineering deliverables, EPC and consultant performance, construction oversight, and commissioning activities.
Key Responsibilities
Engineering Design & Documentation:
- Develop and review detailed engineering plans and designs for BESS and PV+BESS projects.
- Prepare and review layout drawings, single-line diagrams, technical specifications for procurement, and other electrical calculations.
- Coordinate resolution of design issues between internal stakeholders and external parties.
- Manage the IFC design process with EPCs and OEs, tracking open RFIs, design comments, and resolution status through construction completion.
- Review and redline contractor submittals, shop drawings, and equipment datasheets for conformance with project specifications.
Consultant & EPC Management:
- Actively manage engineering EPCs and external engineering consultants (including EORs and specialized engineering consultants).
- Ensure that EPC and consulting activities comply with industry regulations, standards, and safety protocols.
- Track and drive resolution of engineering RFIs and punch list items through to close-out.
Execution Oversight & Commissioning:
- Serve as the Owner’s technical representative during execution, providing on-site oversight at key project milestones and hold points.
- Oversee the installation, pre-commissioning, and commissioning of BESS and PV+BESS systems, ensuring compliance with OEM requirements and project specifications.
- Support interconnection energization activities, protection and control verification, and final grid integration testing.
- Maintain safety protocols, quality standards, and environmental requirements during execution and commissioning phases.
Project Oversight & Controls:
- Track and manage all engineering deliverable milestones, ensuring alignment with the overall project schedule.
- Maintain and update project-level engineering trackers and milestone reporting for internal leadership review.
- Identify engineering and technical risks and develop mitigation strategies in coordination with the project team.
Technical Guidance:
- Provide technical guidance and support throughout the project lifecycle, particularly during execution and commissioning phases.
- Support resolution of field technical issues, design conflicts, and equipment non-conformances during construction.
Compliance & Quality Assurance:
- Ensure all engineering work and field installations comply with industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.
- Review and approve engineering documentation, including design calculations, factory test reports, and commissioning test results.
- Identify potential risks associated with EPC and consultant work and develop mitigation strategies.
Record Keeping & Continuous Improvement:
- Maintain comprehensive records of engineering work, including design documents, test results, commissioning packages, and project closeout reports.
- Develop and document lessons learned and best practices for future projects.
- Stay current with advancements in the BESS and solar PV industry, construction practices, and commissioning standards.
Candidate Profile
Required Experience:
- 5+ years of experience in engineering with direct, hands-on experience executing utility-scale BESS and solar PV (PV+BESS) projects through construction and commissioning.
- Demonstrated experience working with EPCs and third-party engineering consultants during the execution phase of utility-scale energy projects.
- Familiarity with grid integration, interconnection energization, and protection and control requirements for BESS and solar projects.
- Direct experience supporting or leading FAT, SAT, and commissioning activities for BESS and/or PV systems.
- Proficiency in engineering design and markup tools such as AutoCAD and Bluebeam.
- General familiarity with interconnection processes and ISO/RTO requirements.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills; comfortable managing multiple open project threads simultaneously.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to translate complex technical issues for non-technical stakeholders and project leadership.
- Willingness and ability to travel to project sites during key construction and commissioning milestones (up to 25%).
Physical Requirements:
- Prolonged periods of working at a computer.
- Able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.
- Able to walk or stand for extended durations.
- Able to stoop, kneel, and/or crouch to perform visual inspections.
- Able to climb a six-foot ladder at intermittent site or factory visits.
- Able to identify and distinguish colors.
Why Join Us?
Make a Meaningful Impact:
- Contribute to transformative, utility-scale energy storage projects, especially on complex brownfield and urban-constrained sites.
- Play a direct role in accelerating the energy transition.
Thrive in a Mission-Driven Culture:
- Be part of a lean, agile team that values integrity, innovation, and decisive execution.
- Foster a collaborative environment where every team member has a voice and is empowered to make a difference.
Grow with a Company on the Rise:
- Join at a pivotal moment as we scale from startup to growth stage.
- Shape strategy, influence outcomes, and grow professionally alongside a company backed by top-tier private equity and poised for significant expansion.
Pay Range
$95,000 - $130,000 USD per year (BK)
$95,000 - $130,000 USD per year (SF)