Senior Network Engineer

Job Description

GridStor is looking for a Senior Network Engineer who will be responsible for making critical networking decisions and managing all network-related activities for Utility Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). This role will drive network infrastructure from late-stage development through construction and commissioning, leading into operations, both within budget and on schedule. This position will report to the SCADA & Controls Manager and will be based in Portland, OR, with a hybrid work schedule.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and execute network engineering for projects in late-stage development through construction stage, including leading the design and configuration of LANs/WANs, procuring networking hardware such as switches, routers, and firewalls, managing scope, risks, network schedules, budgets, and coordinating with major stakeholders and decision makers to ensure seamless integration with BESS control systems.
• Maintain network systems for operating projects, including monitoring performance metrics, applying security patches and firmware updates, conducting regular audits for reliability and cybersecurity, optimizing bandwidth and latency for real-time data transmission, and ensuring compliance with operational standards such as NERC/CIP and IEEE guidelines.
• Deploy network systems related to utility scale BESS for in-house EMS, including installing and configuring switches, routers, firewalls, cellular devices, and fiber optic infrastructure; integrate with SCADA/EMS protocols like Modbus, DNP3, and IEC 61850; and troubleshoot and maintain existing EMS for operating projects by resolving connectivity issues between BMS, PCS, protection relays, and remote monitoring platforms.
• Interface with EPC, Major Equipment Suppliers, Consultants, Independent Engineers, and other cross-functional teams, acting as the main technical point of contact for networking matters by coordinating design reviews, providing technical guidance on network requirements, reviewing deliverables, and facilitating resolution of integration challenges during commissioning and operations.
• Act as the subject matter expert in utility scale BESS networking, with expertise in one or more of the following areas and ability to quickly pick up other areas along with additional support (through consultants or in-house expertise):
  • Network design and integration, including modeling Balance of Plant network architecture, and ensuring grid-tied compatibility with inverters and control systems.
  • Firewall and VPN configuration, including setting up secure remote access, intrusion detection systems, and encryption for OT environments.
  • Switch and fiber optic logic implementation, including VLAN segmentation, routing protocols, and fiber optic standards for high-reliability connections.
  • AWS integration and management, including cloud-based monitoring, virtual servers, and hybrid on-prem/cloud networking for data acquisition and analytics.
  • SCADA/EMS system networking for utility scale BESS, including protocol configuration for real-time control, data historian integration, and fault-tolerant redundancy.
• Review and ensure compliance to Interconnection Agreements, Interconnection Handbooks, all applicable codes and standards including relevant networking protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, DNP3, Modbus), security standards (e.g., NIST, NERC/CIP), and industry best practices by conducting compliance audits, preparing reports, and implementing corrective actions.
• Prepare and manage technical specifications to deliver network systems successfully and meet industry best practices, including developing RFPs for networking equipment, evaluating vendor proposals, and overseeing specification adherence for hardware, software, and integration services.
• Manage/Review and approve network design packages, including performing detailed technical reviews, approving modifications, ensuring quality assurance through testing and validation, and holding EPC and Major Equipment Suppliers accountable for deliverables and performance standards.
• Develop internal network engineering processes and standards, including creating standardized templates for network designs, deployment procedures, cybersecurity protocols, and documentation for commissioning, operations, and maintenance.
• Travel to jobsites as needed.

Qualifications & Competencies

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Network Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years in networking (minimum 3 years in BESS or related energy systems). Background in firewalls, VPNs, switches, fiber logic, AWS integration, or SCADA/EMS systems highly desirable.
• Location & Availability: Preference to be based in Portland, OR and available to work a hybrid schedule per company guidelines.
• 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.
• Technical Proficiency: Demonstrated proficiency in the Microsoft Office suite and TEAMS.
• Demonstrated proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and TEAMS.
• Reasonable proficiency in one or more of firewalls, VPNs, switches, fiber logic, AWS integration and management, and everything related to utility scale BESS SCADA/EMS systems.
• Field experience during installation and commissioning of BESS network systems is a major plus. Strong knowledge of relevant networking protocols, security standards, and compliance requirements.
• AutoCAD, Bluebeam, or equivalent.
• 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.
• Resourcefulness & Initiative: Demonstrated resourcefulness as a go-getter, with a proven ability to independently research, implement innovative solutions, and leverage emerging tools (including AI-assisted diagnostics and automation) to drive efficiency and adapt to evolving technological landscapes in the energy sector.
• Team Orientation: Highly motivated to support and collaborate with team members, contributing to collective success.

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.

Company Operating Principles

GridStor's Operating Principles represent who we are, how we work, and what we believe.

• We Collaborate. We believe trust is given, not earned. We honor each other's zone of genius and seek to challenge ideas, not each other. We listen to each other's points of view and work hard to find the better solution. We are one team.
• We Are Humble. We like hard work, but don't make work hard. We know we have a lot to learn and never grandstand or take up all the space in the room. We are kind. We are welcoming. We are inspired by our mission to decarbonize the grid.
• We Create the Future. We are curious. We go deep, search for the best idea, and then move fast. We always focus on the few things that matter most. We know there will be setbacks, so we show up every day ready to learn and be better, together.
• We Show Up for Each Other. We keep each other fully informed. We seek to understand. We coach, we don't blame. We share our points of view and seek to make each other better every day. We believe everyone creates culture in every moment, every day.
• We Do Hard Things. We view challenges as opportunities. We are resilient. We are all owners, and we act like it. We understand change requires taking risks and we push ourselves and our partners. We do what is right as opposed to what might be best for any one of us.