Application Guide

How to Apply for Senior Preconstruction Project Engineer - Battery Storage

at Plus Power

๐Ÿข About Plus Power

Plus Power is at the forefront of the renewable energy transition, specializing in utility-scale battery energy storage systems that stabilize the grid and enable greater integration of renewable sources. Their remote-first culture and focus on cutting-edge technology make them an attractive employer for professionals seeking impact and flexibility.

About This Role

As a Senior Preconstruction Project Engineer, you will lead the technical development of battery storage projects from early-stage feasibility through financial close. Your work directly influences project viability and profitability by assessing technologies, optimizing site layouts, and de-risking designsโ€”making you a critical bridge between engineering and finance.

๐Ÿ’ก A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing a site layout drawing in AutoCAD and marking up access road adjustments to reduce earthwork costs. Midday, you'd join a call with the development team to present a technology comparison matrix for a 200 MW project, then spend the afternoon refining a CAPEX estimate in Excel and preparing slides for an investor presentation. You might end the day by coordinating with an EPC partner on a risk register update.

๐ŸŽฏ Who Plus Power Is Looking For

  • 6+ years of experience in power, energy, renewables, or BESS, with proven ability to lead technical assessments and cost estimation for large-scale projects.
  • Deep understanding of battery energy storage system components, balance of plant, and site layout trade-offs (e.g., containerized vs. modular, AC vs. DC coupling).
  • Proficient in AutoCAD for reviewing and redlining engineering drawings, and comfortable with financial modeling inputs like CAPEX/OPEX estimates and schedule development.
  • Strong communicator who can present technical risks and solutions to stakeholders, including developers, financiers, and EPC partners, and is willing to travel for site visits.

๐Ÿ“ Tips for Applying to Plus Power

1

Highlight specific BESS projects you've worked on, detailing your role in technology selection and cost estimationโ€”use metrics like $/MWh or capacity (MW/MWh).

2

Showcase your experience with financial valuation models: mention any involvement in creating or reviewing inputs for project finance models.

3

In your resume, explicitly list AutoCAD proficiency and provide examples of drawings you've reviewed or created for energy storage or power projects.

4

Tailor your cover letter to mention Plus Power's focus on 'greener grid' and explain how your technical de-risking approach aligns with their project value maximization goal.

5

If you have experience with multiple battery chemistries (LFP, NMC, etc.) or inverter technologies, mention it to demonstrate breadth.

โœ‰๏ธ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your hands-on experience with BESS technology assessment and site layout optimization to maximize project value.', 'Describe a specific example where you identified and mitigated a technical risk, resulting in cost savings or schedule improvement.', 'Show understanding of the preconstruction phase: how your work feeds into financial close and project execution.', 'Mention your comfort with remote collaboration and willingness to travel for site visits and stakeholder meetings.']

Generate Cover Letter โ†’

๐Ÿ” Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • โ†’ Review Plus Power's project portfolio on their website to understand the scale and types of BESS projects they develop (e.g., standalone vs. solar+storage).
  • โ†’ Read recent news or press releases about Plus Power to learn about their strategic focus (e.g., ERCOT, CAISO, or specific project milestones).
  • โ†’ Understand the competitive landscape: how does Plus Power differentiate itself from other BESS developers (e.g., Fluence, NextEra)?
  • โ†’ Look into the company's culture and remote work policies via LinkedIn or Glassdoor to align your application tone with their values.

๐Ÿ’ฌ Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Walk me through how you would assess and compare two different battery storage technologies for a 100 MW/400 MWh project.
2 Describe a time you identified a significant technical risk in a project and how you de-risked it. What was the outcome?
3 How do you approach developing a capital cost estimate for a greenfield BESS project? What are the key line items?
4 Explain your experience with AutoCAD. Can you give an example of a drawing review that led to a design change?
5 How do you stay current with evolving energy storage technologies and market trends? What's a recent development you find interesting?
Practice Interview Questions โ†’

โš ๏ธ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting a generic resume without highlighting BESS-specific experienceโ€”vague 'energy industry' roles won't stand out.
  • Failing to quantify your impact: avoid statements like 'managed costs' without showing % savings or $ amounts.
  • Overlooking the preconstruction focus: don't emphasize construction or commissioning experience alone; show how you contribute before construction starts.

๐Ÿ“… Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

โœ“

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Plus Power!