Group Manager

Group Manager - Commissioning & Delivery BESS Our client is a leading global provider of battery energy storage solutions with a rapidly growing portfolio of utility‑scale BESS projects across Australia. They are seeking an experienced Group Manager - Commissioning & Delivery BESS to lead their commissioning and delivery operations. This is a senior leadership role responsible for managing BESS commissioning teams, ensuring successful project delivery, and establishing operational excellence across multiple concurrent projects. You will oversee commissioning activities from pre‑commissioning through to handover, ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and to specification. As Group Manager - Commissioning & Delivery BESS, you will lead commissioning engineers, coordinate with EPC contractors and clients, and drive continuous improvement in commissioning processes and project delivery performance. Key Responsibilities Lead and manage commissioning teams across multiple utility‑scale BESS projects Develop commissioning strategies, schedules, and resource plans for project portfolio Establish commissioning standards, procedures, and quality requirements Oversee pre‑commissioning, commissioning, and performance testing activities Ensure commissioning activities meet safety, quality, and performance standards Drive commissioning efficiency and delivery excellence across projects Project Delivery & Execution Manage BESS project delivery from commissioning phase through to handover and acceptance Coordinate commissioning activities with EPC contractors, vendors, and project teams Oversee factory acceptance tests (FAT) and site acceptance tests (SAT) Ensure projects meet technical specifications, performance guarantees, and contractual requirements Manage commissioning budgets, schedules, and resource allocation Resolve technical issues and commissioning challenges to maintain project schedules Technical Oversight & Quality Assurance Provide technical oversight of BESS commissioning including battery systems, inverters, transformers, and control systems Review and approve commissioning plans, test procedures, and acceptance criteria Ensure compliance with Australian Standards, grid connection requirements, and safety regulations Verify system performance including capacity, efficiency, response times, and grid compliance Conduct technical reviews and quality inspections during commissioning Ensure proper integration of battery management systems, energy management systems, and SCADA Stakeholder & Client Management Serve as primary commissioning interface with clients, network operators, and project stakeholders Manage client expectations and ensure delivery of agreed project outcomes Coordinate with network operators on grid connection, testing, and compliance requirements Present commissioning progress, test results, and project status to clients and senior management Build strong relationships with EPC contractors, equipment suppliers, and commissioning vendors Resolve stakeholder issues and maintain positive project relationships Safety & Risk Management Establish and enforce safety protocols for commissioning activities including high voltage work, battery safety, and site operations Conduct safety reviews, risk assessments, and HAZOP studies for commissioning activities Ensure compliance with electrical safety regulations and workplace safety requirements Investigate incidents and implement corrective actions Promote safety culture and ensure zero harm objectives across commissioning teams Manage commissioning risks including technical, schedule, and safety risks Team Development & Resource Management Recruit, develop, and mentor commissioning engineers and technicians Build commissioning capability and technical expertise within the team Provide training on BESS technology, commissioning processes, and safety procedures Manage team performance, workload allocation, and capacity planning Foster collaborative, safety‑focused, and high‑performance team culture Develop succession planning and career pathways for commissioning team members Process Improvement & Standards Develop and maintain commissioning standards, procedures, and best practices Drive continuous improvement in commissioning processes and delivery efficiency Implement lessons learned and improve commissioning methodologies Establish KPIs and metrics for commissioning performance Develop commissioning documentation, templates, and tools Champion innovation in commissioning techniques and technology Commercial & Contract Management Manage commissioning scope, schedules, and deliverables under EPC contracts Coordinate commissioning variations, scope changes, and contract amendments Support project commercial teams on commissioning cost management Ensure commissioning activities support project financial performance Manage commissioning subcontractors and specialist service providers Provide commissioning input to contract negotiations and project bids Education & Experience Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or related discipline 10‑12+ years of experience in power systems, renewable energy, or BESS projects Minimum 5+ years in commissioning leadership or management roles Proven experience commissioning utility‑scale BESS projects (50MW+) Strong understanding of battery systems, power conversion systems, and grid integration Demonstrated track record delivering multiple projects safely and successfully Technical Expertise Deep knowledge of BESS components including battery modules, inverters, transformers, switchgear, and control systems Strong understanding of battery technologies, battery management systems, and thermal management Knowledge of grid connection requirements, protection systems, and network compliance testing Familiarity with Australian Standards (AS/NZS) and electrical safety regulations Understanding of power system integration, SCADA systems, and energy management systems Experience with commissioning testing including functional tests, performance tests, and grid compliance tests Leadership & Management Proven leadership capabilities with ability to manage commissioning teams and resources Strong project management skills with experience managing multiple concurrent projects Ability to build, develop, and motivate high‑performing technical teams Experience managing commissioning budgets, schedules, and stakeholder expectations Strategic thinking with ability to establish standards and drive operational excellence Capability to work effectively with EPC contractors, vendors, and clients Safety & Quality Strong safety leadership with commitment to zero harm and electrical safety Experience with high voltage commissioning and electrical safety procedures Knowledge of risk management, safety regulations, and incident investigation Quality‑focused approach with attention to detail and standards compliance Ability to establish safety culture and enforce safety protocols Communication & Stakeholder Management Excellent communication and presentation skills for client and senior stakeholder engagement Strong relationship‑building skills with ability to manage complex stakeholder relationships Ability to resolve conflicts and negotiate solutions with contractors and clients Commercial awareness with understanding of contract obligations and project delivery Professional presence suitable for client‑facing and executive engagement Additional Requirements Experience with lithium‑ion battery technologies and large‑scale battery systems Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) status What's on Offer Executive remuneration package with delivery bonuses Fully maintained company vehicle or attractive novated leasing arrangements Comprehensive private health insurance for you and your family Annual salary reviews with above‑market increases Generous superannuation contributions Flexible working arrangements with hybrid work options Additional annual leave and purchased leave schemes Professional development budget and support for further qualifications (CPEng, PMP) International career progression opportunities within a global organisation Leadership role building and scaling commissioning capabilities Work on Australia's largest battery storage projects driving the energy transition Employee wellness programs and EAP support How to Apply To apply, please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your commissioning experience, leadership accomplishments, and motivation for the role. In your covering letter, please address: Examples of projects you have delivered and challenges you have overcome Your approach to building high‑performing commissioning teams Your understanding of BESS technology and commissioning requirements Your leadership philosophy and vision for commissioning excellence Only candidates with Australian working rights will be considered. Location: Melbourne, Victoria, Australia Salary: A$180,000.00-A$250,000.00 #J-18808-Ljbffr