The demand for battery storage projects is soaring in the UK as the country shifts towards a more sustainable energy future.
Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are becoming critical to ensuring grid stability, especially with the increasing reliance on renewable energy sources like solar and wind. As this sector grows, so does the need for skilled professionals across a range of roles.
Understanding the essential jobs in battery storage projects and what to look for in candidates can help ensure the success of these vital projects.
As a BESS recruiter at Astute People’s Renewable Energy recruitment team, Kieran Boyton-Salts, places some of the best talent in this industry.
Below, for Astute’s latest Renewable energy recruitment blog, “Battery Energy Storage Projects UK : The Essential BESS Jobs”, he highlights the diverse range of job roles involved in battery storage projects and offer insights into the key skills and qualifications recruiters should prioritise.
1. Battery Storage Project Engineers
Key Responsibilities:
Project engineers play a crucial role in battery storage projects.
They oversee the planning, design, and implementation of these systems, ensuring that all technical requirements are met.
Their work involves coordinating with various stakeholders, from suppliers to construction teams, to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.
What to Look For:
When recruiting for this role, look for candidates with a strong background in electrical or mechanical engineering, as these disciplines are fundamental to battery storage systems.
Experience with power systems, energy storage technologies, and grid integration is also essential.
Employers often prefer candidates with a degree in engineering and professional certifications such as Chartered Engineer (CEng) status or membership in relevant institutions like the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET).
Essential Skills:
- Proficiency in project management tools like AutoCAD and MS Project
- Strong problem-solving abilities
- Excellent communication skills for liaising with diverse teams
2. Electrical Engineers
Key Responsibilities:
Electrical engineers are responsible for the design and optimisation of the electrical systems within battery storage projects.
This includes ensuring that the systems are efficient, reliable, and compliant with UK regulations.
They work closely with other engineers and technicians to develop system designs, specify equipment, and oversee the installation process.
What to Look For:
A candidate with a degree in electrical engineering and experience in energy storage systems is ideal for this role.
Familiarity with power distribution systems, high-voltage equipment, and energy management software is also critical.
Look for individuals who have experience with regulatory compliance, particularly regarding grid connection requirements.
Essential Skills:
- Expertise in electrical design software (e.g., ETAP, PowerFactory)
- Knowledge of grid codes and standards (e.g., G99 in the UK)
- Strong analytical skills for system optimisation
3. Battery Storage Technicians
Key Responsibilities:
Technicians are the hands-on professionals who install, maintain, and repair battery storage systems.
Their work is critical to ensuring that these systems operate safely and efficiently.
They are often involved in troubleshooting issues, performing routine maintenance, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
What to Look For:
Look for candidates with a background in electrical or mechanical technology, often through vocational training or apprenticeships.
Practical experience with battery systems, inverters, and related technology is a must.
Certifications in safety and electrical work, such as the NVQ Level 3 in Electrical Installation or a City & Guilds qualification, are valuable assets.
Essential Skills:
- Hands-on experience with battery technology and power systems
- Ability to diagnose and repair electrical faults
- Strong attention to detail and adherence to safety protocols
4. Control and Instrumentation (C&I) Engineers
Key Responsibilities:
C&I engineers are responsible for the automation and control systems that ensure the efficient operation of battery storage systems.
They design, implement, and maintain control systems that monitor battery performance, manage energy flows, and ensure the safety and reliability of the system.
What to Look For:
Candidates with a background in control engineering, electronics, or a related field are ideal for this role.
Experience with PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers), SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, and other automation technologies is crucial.
Additionally, look for candidates who have a solid understanding of cybersecurity as it relates to industrial control systems.
Essential Skills:
- Proficiency in programming PLCs and configuring SCADA systems
- Knowledge of automation protocols (e.g., Modbus, DNP3)
- Ability to troubleshoot and optimise control systems
5. Site Managers
Key Responsibilities:
Site managers oversee the day-to-day operations of battery storage project sites.
They ensure that all work is completed safely, on schedule, and according to the project’s specifications.
This role involves managing teams of engineers, technicians, and subcontractors, as well as liaising with project managers and clients.
What to Look For:
Look for candidates with strong leadership and organisational skills.
Experience in managing construction or engineering projects, particularly in the energy sector, is essential.
A degree in engineering, construction management, or a related field is often required, along with qualifications in health and safety management.
Essential Skills:
- Strong leadership and team management abilities
- Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Primavera, MS Project)
- Excellent communication skills for interfacing with clients and teams
6. Health and Safety Officers
Key Responsibilities:
Health and safety officers ensure that battery storage projects comply with all safety regulations and standards.
They conduct risk assessments, develop safety plans, and monitor site activities to prevent accidents and ensure a safe working environment.
What to Look For:
Candidates should have a strong understanding of health and safety regulations in the UK, particularly in the energy and construction sectors.
NEBOSH (National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health) certification or similar qualifications are often required.
Experience in conducting safety audits and incident investigations is also valuable.
Essential Skills:
- Strong knowledge of UK safety regulations and best practices
- Ability to develop and implement safety plans
- Excellent communication skills for training staff and reporting to management
7. Project Managers
Key Responsibilities:
Project managers are responsible for overseeing the entire battery storage project, from initial planning to final commissioning.
They coordinate with engineers, technicians, and site managers to ensure that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.
What to Look For:
A strong background in project management within the energy or construction sectors is essential.
A degree in engineering, project management, or a related field is often required, along with certifications like PRINCE2 or PMP (Project Management Professional).
Experience with battery storage projects or renewable energy systems is a significant advantage.
Essential Skills:
- Strong leadership and organisational skills
- Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera)
- Ability to manage budgets, schedules, and resources effectively
8. Environmental Consultants
Key Responsibilities:
Environmental consultants assess the environmental impact of battery storage projects and ensure compliance with environmental regulations.
They conduct site assessments, develop environmental management plans, and work to mitigate any potential environmental risks associated with the project.
What to Look For:
Candidates with a background in environmental science, ecology, or a related field are ideal for this role.
Experience with environmental impact assessments (EIAs) and knowledge of UK environmental regulations are critical.
Look for individuals who have worked on renewable energy projects and understand the specific environmental challenges associated with battery storage.
Essential Skills:
- Strong analytical skills for assessing environmental impact
- Knowledge of UK environmental regulations and compliance
- Ability to develop and implement environmental management plans
Battery Energy Storage Projects UK
Battery storage projects are vital to the future of renewable energy in the UK, and they require a diverse range of skills to succeed.
From engineers and technicians to site managers and environmental consultants, each role plays a crucial part in ensuring that these projects are completed safely, efficiently, and in line with all regulations.
As a recruiter, it’s essential to understand the specific skills and qualifications that are required for each role.
By focusing on these essential jobs in battery storage projects, you can help ensure that your clients have the talent they need to deliver successful projects.
At Astute People, we’re committed to connecting the right professionals with the right opportunities, helping to build a sustainable energy future for the UK.
Discover how we can help you find exceptional talent – learn more about Astute’s hiring solutions.
