Sr. Development Engineer
Gridstor
Job Description
Company Overview GridStor is a rapidly growing, grid-scale energy storage developer, owner and operator backed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management (“GSAM”) and led by experienced clean energy industry professionals. We acquire and develop battery storage projects in markets across North America. GridStor’s mission is to accelerate the transition to a carbon‑free, resilient grid by rapidly deploying stand‑alone energy storage at scale.
GridStor is based in Portland, Oregon, and offers competitive compensation and a wide selection of benefits including unlimited paid time off. Role Summary Search for a Senior Development Engineer to lead technical execution for our utility‑scale battery energy storage systems (BESS). The position is the primary technical owner for projects in the development pipeline, responsible for advancing greenfield sites and performing rigorous technical due diligence on M&A opportunities.
The role blends high‑level conceptual design, boots‑on‑the‑ground site assessment, and sophisticated stakeholder management to move projects toward a successful Notice to Proceed (NTP). The position reports to the Director – Preconstruction and will be based in Portland, OR, with a hybrid work schedule. Key Responsibilities Grid Operations Engineering & Design (indicative to 30%) Develop indicative to 30% design packages, including site layouts, single‑line diagrams, and civil, structural, and electrical site plans.
Optimize project configurations to maximize energy density while adhering to all setbacks, easements, and other requirements. M&A Diligence Lead technical diligence for M&A opportunities, identifying and mitigating “red flags” or “fatal flaws” in project designs, interconnection status, and permitting. Validate performance assumptions, degradation models, and capex/opex estimates for acquisition targets.
Permitting and Stakeholder Engagement Serve as the lead technical representative in meetings with AHJs and local fire departments to ensure compliance with NFPA 855 and local codes. Prepare and present technical narratives for public hearings, planning commissions, and community engagement sessions. Pre‑construction Management Draft technical scopes of work and exhibits for LNTP and EPCA’s.
Support EPC bidding process, evaluating contractor technical capabilities and cost proposals. Oversee owner’s engineers and external consultants on 30% design, geotechnical reports, and hydrology reports. Develop project‑level total cost of ownership models.
Site Assessment Conduct site visits to evaluate constructability, topography, and existing utility infrastructure. Qualifications & Competencies Education: Bachelor’s or advanced degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Relevant professional certifications (e.g., PE, PMP, or NERC System Operator) are preferred.
Experience: Minimum of 5 years in the energy industry with at least 3 years in utility‑scale BESS development engineering. Proficiency in AutoCad, Bluebeam, or SKM for electrical design. Understanding of industry best practices for designing and building utility‑scale energy storage projects.
Knowledge of codes including NFPA and UL fire safety. Location & Availability: Preference to be based in Portland and available to work a hybrid schedule, but will consider remote candidates. Organizational Skills: Exceptional organizational abilities with keen attention to detail.
Capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously in a fast‑paced environment and seeing delegated projects through to completion. Adaptability: Ability to be agile and flexible, readily taking on tasks outside the typical scope of the role as needed. Confidentiality: Proven ability to handle highly confidential information with utmost discretion.
Integrity & Judgment: Strong track record of excellent judgment and integrity in previous roles. Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Problem‑Solving: Adaptable, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively and approach challenges with a creative, proactive mindset.
Team Orientation: Highly motivated to support and collaborate with team members, contributing to collective success. Travel: Ability to travel up to 25% for site visits and AHJ meetings. Compensation and Benefits GridStor offers an attractive Total Rewards package, including: Competitive base salaries commensurate with experience, with an annual cash bonus (based on Company and individual performance).
Generous paid leave. Employee participation in Long Term Incentive Plan. Comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, including coverage for domestic partners and eligible domestic partner children.
HSA/FSA for participating employees. 401(k) plan with company match and immediate vesting. Continuing education and professional development. Cellphone reimbursement, hybrid work environment, healthy snacks, volunteer opportunities, company outings, and more. #J-18808-Ljbffr