Bess Utilities Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Role Overview

The Data Center BESS Principal Engineer is a senior-level technical role focused on supporting Global DC Sales and serving as a key individual contributor within the Sales Engineering organization. This role leads end-to-end technical strategy and solution development for data center energy infrastructure opportunities, from concept through contracting and execution. The Engineer also serves as a thought leader in external engagements with industry advocacy and rule‑setting bodies.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end technical strategy and solution development for data center energy infrastructure opportunities from concept through contracting and execution.
• Architect scalable system solutions aligned to customer requirements, utility constraints, and Fluence product roadmap.
• Own grid studies, modeling, and technical evaluations supporting interconnection, contracting, and solution validation.
• Serve as the primary technical interface across customers, utilities, regulators, EPCs, and OEMs to resolve risks and drive alignment.
• Coordinate cross‑functional teams (Sales Engineering, GID, Modeling, Product, Execution) to define requirements and ensure successful delivery.
• Ensure continuity of technical intent through execution, commissioning, and onsite validation.

Advanced Grid‑Forming (GFM) Projects

• Keep abreast of lessons learned from technical execution of advanced GFM BESS projects across Americas markets.
• Define control philosophies and sequences of operation across BESS and hybrid plant configurations (PV, wind, thermal).
• Drive alignment with utilities, ISOs, and regulators on interconnection, grid code compliance, and dynamic performance requirements.
• Coordinate EMT/RMS modeling, controls validation, and compliance deliverables with inverter vendors, GID, and Modeling teams.
• Support technical negotiations with key stakeholders on performance, testing, and compliance strategy.
• Validate GFM performance and coordinated plant behavior through commissioning and testing.

Technology Strategy & Innovation

• Evaluate emerging technologies (e.g., SSTs, advanced controls) to shape Fluence’s roadmap and market entry strategy.
• Develop business cases and executive materials to inform product, platform, and investment decisions.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• 10–15 years of electrical experience in energy storage, electrical infrastructure, power generation, or related fields.
• Proven track record closing complex, multimillion‑dollar B2B transactions with sophisticated counterparties (e.g., hyperscalers, colocation providers, utilities, developers, EPCs).
• Deep understanding of data center power requirements and stakeholders, and experience with utilities, IPPs, developers, and/or large energy customers.
• Expertise in medium‑voltage electrical distribution, load profiles, interconnection, power quality, controls/integration, and project execution constraints.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and executive‑level presentation skills with the ability to translate technical concepts into clear business outcomes.
• Master’s degree in electrical engineering or related discipline required.
• Professional Engineering license preferred.

Additional Skills

• Deep knowledge of energy storage technologies, grid services, and utility market design; ability to connect these capabilities to data center outcomes (reliability, cost, carbon, speed‑to‑power).
• Deep knowledge of data center electrical infrastructure and project delivery (MV/LV distribution, substations, UPS and backup generation interfaces, protection schemes, commissioning) and how a utility‑scale BESS integrates at the site or grid level.
• Experience with PSCAD modeling and hardware‑in‑the‑loop testing.
• Ability to influence without authority and collaborate across a global matrix organization.
• Highly organized, self‑directed, and comfortable operating in a dynamic environment.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Fluence, we are an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law.

Work Authorization

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout employment. Fluence does not sponsor work visas for this position.