Senior Operational Technology (OT) Network Engineer - Battery Storage

Company Overview 

Plus Power is an energy storage market leader, with a market-leading 10+ GW portfolio across more than 25 US states and Canadian provinces that will transform North American electric grids into cleaner and more versatile critical infrastructure.

Standalone energy storage is rapidly transforming the North American energy markets, because it is cheaper than new natural gas plants, faster to build than fossil peakers or transmission, and able to perform diverse energy services. Plus Power partners with electricity system operators, utilities, and investors to originate, develop, finance, own and operate standalone energy storage projects that provide critical services to the wholesale electric market. Plus Power’s team applies an intentional mindset to energy storage development by using a data-driven approach to development and operations.

At Plus Power, we are focused on solving hard climate problems, profitably.  We are growing fast, and value candidates who, like us, share a focus on setting high expectations, owning and learning from mistakes in the spirit of radical transparency, and are committed to internal partnering as a key element of our ideas meritocracy. Our team praises Plus Power’s culture and excels through our game-changing mission and supportive ecosystem.

About the Role 

Plus Power recruits outstanding energy industry professionals who are driven to develop, build and operate assets safely and reliably to decarbonize the power markets while growing their careers. Our team looks for data-driven and fact-based mindsets, engaging and collaborative behaviors, and personal growth-focused professionals.     

We are looking for a Senior Operational Technology (OT) Network Engineer. The OT Network Engineer is responsible for overseeing the design and implementation of plant network and communication infrastructure of cutting-edge, utility scale energy storage systems at various plant locations. You will help set the direction for advanced remote control center design and setup, network management system roadmap, define best practices, capacity planning, disaster recovery, efficiency, and infrastructure automation. The OT network engineer will analyze and resolve network hardware and software problems in a timely and accurate fashion, and consults with end-users, as necessary.  

Key Responsibilities 

• Collaborate with internal and external partners to review, consult, recommend and facilitate implementation of advanced network systems and communication infrastructure for our energy storage projects.  
• Design, configure, deploy and maintain the OT local and wide area networks (LANs, WANs), including servers, routers, hubs, switches, firewalls, wireless technology and other associated hardware to ensure safe and reliable operation for fulfilling designated business objectives and processes.  
• Manage the installation, configuration, integration and support of software and hardware (i.e., firewalls, switches, routers, Ethernet and fiber optic networks, Physical and Virtual servers) as needed including maintaining asset inventory documentation and reviewing appropriate security measures. 
• Monitor OT network performance and troubleshoot problem areas as needed.  
• Supervise technicians/contractors in repairs, moves/changes and additions of new services.  
• Perform management activities for existing hardware, systems and networks by creating and maintaining documentation, as it relates to OT network configuration, mapping, processes, security and service records.  
• Monitor and test network performance and ensure network connectivity of all servers, workstations, and other network appliances.  
• Perform server and security audits and system backups and recovery.  
• Participate in on-field construction and plant commissioning activities.     

Skills & Qualifications 

• Bachelor's degree required; computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or related major is preferred.  
• Industry leading certification in networking (e.g., CISCO etc.). is strongly preferred.  
• Minimum 7 years of experience in related industry, experience with energy/utility industry highly preferred.  
• Strong knowledge of communications protocols such as Modbus, DNP3, and TCP/IP etc.  
• Strong knowledge of cyber security practices and principles, including NERC/CIP and NIST.  
• Ability to design, configure and support complex WANs.  
• Hands-on experience in troubleshooting network performance and packet analysis tools such as Wireshark, NMAP, etc.  
• Knowledge of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and International Society of Automation (ISA) standards applicable to process control and OT networks used in the utility industry. 
• Hands-on experience with network security practices, including firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and encryption methods (e.g., Palo Alto, CISCO, Fortinet).  
• Demonstrated experience in TCP/IP and related services (e.g., DNS, DHCP, etc.), Palo Alto/CISCO/Fortinet firewall management, DMZ setup and management, IP routing and VLAN management, modem, radio systems and fiber optic construction standards and practices.  
• Familiarity with OT software and hardware is preferred (Ignition, PLC, RTU, etc.).  
• Familiarity with programming language experience (batch/shell scripting).  
• Experience in virtual and physical server deployment and management.  
• Proficient with writing technical specifications for process or manufacturing equipment.  
• Demonstrated ability to work well in a cross-functional environment with both technical and non-technical team members. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills. 
• Ability to travel as needed (estimated at 25%). 

Compensation and Benefits 

Highly competitive total compensation from one of North America’s leading energy storage developers, owners and operators. Flexible, work from home or hybrid work from Plus Power’s offices in San Francisco, Houston, Chicago, Seattle, and Palm Beach. 

The expected salary range* for this position begins at $[AMOUNT]. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range based on several factors including, but not limited to relevant experience, skills, qualifications, geographic labor market, and other factors consistent with applicable law. This position is also eligible to participate in our annual bonus program. 

Plus Power offers a competitive and comprehensive benefits program, unlimited vacation, flexible remote work, work from home stipend, educational assistance, parental leave, and a highly engaging company culture with opportunities for in-person connection and learning and growth. 

The deadline* for applying to this role is 30 days from the date of initial posting (i.e., DEADLINE DATE). 

Plus Power is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace where people of all backgrounds can thrive. Plus Power is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, protected veteran status, disability, age, or other legally protected status.

*This information is provided in accordance with applicable law.