Thermal Engineer

Job Title:

Project Engineer - Thermal Management for Utility-Scale Energy Storage

Job Description

This role focuses on thermal management for lithium-ion battery energy storage systems within utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. You will support projects from initial design through commissioning, defining technical scope, providing engineering oversight, and acting as a key technical resource for cross-functional teams. The position combines strong analytical skills with a customer-service mindset to deliver high-performing, safe, and reliable energy storage solutions while continuously improving tools, standards, and processes.

Responsibilities

+ Evaluate the design aspects of major components for utility-scale energy storage projects, with a focus on thermal management performance and reliability.

+ Prepare detailed technical scopes of work for thermal management studies and designs, and incorporate these requirements into contract documents.

+ Support projects from conception through commissioning, including participation in on-site commissioning activities for lithium-ion BESS installations.

+ Provide engineering guidance and technical direction to internal project teams throughout the project lifecycle.

+ Oversee and coordinate with external Engineers of Record to ensure designs meet project requirements, safety standards, and industry best practices.

+ Collaborate with suppliers on equipment sizing, control strategies, technology compatibility, and integration of thermal management systems within BESS solutions.

+ Partner with multi-disciplined teams to solve complex technical problems, optimize system integration, and drive process improvements across projects.

+ Identify and evaluate value engineering opportunities to enhance performance, reduce cost, and improve constructability of energy storage projects.

+ Monitor and assess emerging technologies in thermal management and energy storage to inform design standards and future project approaches.

+ Capture lessons learned from completed projects and translate them into updated tools, standards, and best practices to maximize BESS performance.

+ Communicate technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical stakeholders, supporting informed decision-making.

+ Perform other job-related engineering duties as assigned in support of the Utility Scale Energy Storage team.

Essential Skills

+ Demonstrated experience in thermal design and thermal analysis for complex mechanical or energy systems.

+ Strong experience in mechanical engineering principles applied to thermal management and HVAC systems.

+ Subject matter expertise in thermal management for energy storage systems, including one or more of the following: hydronic HVAC, air-cooled HVAC, battery heat generation and dissipation, or BESS design.

+ Hands-on experience with VRF (Variable Refrigerant Flow), hydronic, and air-side HVAC systems.

+ Strong knowledge of energy storage technologies, including lithium-ion battery chemistries, power conversion units, and DC/DC converters.

+ Familiarity with relevant safety standards and codes, including UL1973, UL9540, NFPA 855, NFPA 70E, NEC, and applicable IFC/IBC sections.

+ Proven ability to communicate technical concepts effectively to diverse audiences, both in writing and verbally.

+ B.S. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field from an ABET-accredited program.

+ At least 5 years of engineering experience, preferably in energy storage, thermal management, or related mechanical systems.

Additional

Skills & Qualifications

+ Experience working on utility-scale solar or energy storage projects and understanding of their integration with BESS.

+ Ability to define engineering scope and requirements for thermal management systems within large, complex projects.

+ Experience collaborating with cross-functional and multi-disciplined teams, including suppliers and external engineering partners.

+ Track record of identifying process improvements, developing tools and standards, and implementing lessons learned across projects.

+ Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a detail-oriented and methodical approach.

+ Customer-service mindset when supporting internal and external stakeholders on technical issues.

Work Environment

The role supports utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System projects from early design through field commissioning, providing exposure to both office-based engineering work and on-site project activities. You will collaborate closely with multi-disciplinary teams, including mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers, as well as suppliers and external Engineers of Record. The work involves frequent use of engineering tools for thermal design and analysis, as well as regular interaction with technologies such as lithium-ion battery systems, power conversion units, DC/DC converters, and advanced HVAC systems including VRF, hydronic, and air-side configurations.

On-site commissioning activities may involve working in outdoor…