Our client, a leading renewable energy developer and IPP with a growing battery energy storage system (BESS) portfolio across Australia, is seeking a Head of BESS Engineering to lead the technical strategy, design integrity, and engineering delivery of their BESS pipeline.
This is a senior leadership role responsible for building and directing the engineering function across development, procurement, construction, and operational phases of standalone and co-located BESS projects.This is an outstanding prospect for a senior BESS engineering leader to shape the technical direction of a growing platform, with direct exposure to investment committees, board-level reporting, and the full project lifecycle from origination through to operations.Key ResponsibilitiesLead all BESS engineering activities across the project lifecycle — feasibility, front-end engineering design (FEED), detailed design, procurement, construction oversight, commissioning, and asset performanceOwn technical due diligence for BESS acquisitions, greenfield developments, and investment decisions, including risk assessment and mitigation strategiesDevelop and maintain internal engineering standards, technical specifications, and design review processes for BESS systems (technology selection, system architecture, fire safety, grid connection, thermal management)Manage relationships with OEMs, EPC contractors, and technical advisors; lead technology and vendor selection processesProvide technical leadership on grid connection studies, AEMO compliance, and interconnection requirements for BESS assetsOversee HAZOP, safety case development, and compliance with relevant Australian standards (AS/NZS) and battery safety codesBuild, lead,



and mentor a growing team of BESS engineers as the portfolio scalesSupport commercial and investment teams with technical input for PPAs, offtake structuring, and revenue stacking (FCAS, arbitrage, capacity)Represent the business in interactions with AEMO, network service providers (NSPs), regulators, and industry bodiesReport on technical progress, risks, and budget to the executive team and boardCandidate RequirementsMinimum 12 years of engineering experience in power systems, renewable energy, or utility-scale infrastructure, with substantial hands-on BESS experience (minimum 4–5 years specifically in BESS)Proven track record delivering utility-scale BESS projects in Australia, from development through to operationsDeep technical knowledge of BESS technologies (lithium-ion chemistries, inverter/PCS design, thermal management, fire suppression systems)Strong understanding of the NEM, AEMO frameworks, grid connection processes, and Australian technical standardsExperience leading technical due diligence for M&A; or investment processesDemonstrated people leadership — building and managing engineering teamsBachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or related discipline; Chartered Engineer (CPEng) status highly regardedExcellent stakeholder management skills, with experience presenting to investment committees and boardsFull working rights in Australia; Sydney-based (or willing to relocate)What's on OfferSenior leadership role with a fast-growing, well-capitalised platformDirect influence over technology strategy and portfolio-shaping decisionsCompetitive base salary + bonus + potential equity/LTI, commensurate with seniorityCareer growth as the BESS pipeline scales
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📌 Head Of Bess Engineering (Sydney)
🏢 Vertex Search
📍 Sydney