Senior Controls Engineer

The Senior Controls Engineer – Services is responsible for leading controls-related activities across Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects during the operational phase. This role focuses on control system performance, software and firmware lifecycle management, grid code compliance, root cause analysis, and continuous improvement initiatives to maximize system reliability, availability, and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and drive the Services team in delivering project-specific BESS control system requirements, ensuring alignment with technical specifications, operational standards, and customer expectations.
• Serve as the primary controls subject matter expert for customers, subcontractors, and internal stakeholders throughout the service lifecycle.
• Support long-term service agreement (LTSA) execution by ensuring controls compliance and leading grid code compliance testing activities across EMEA sites.
• Collaborate closely with Field Service Engineers and cross-functional teams to identify, analyze, and resolve complex controls, software, and system performance issues.
• Plan, coordinate, and execute software and firmware upgrades, minimizing operational risk through structured deployment, testing, and rollback processes.
• Lead and perform root cause analyses (RCA) of system events and failures, implementing corrective and preventive actions to improve system reliability and availability.
• Drive product and performance improvements using digital monitoring tools, operational data analysis, and technical investigations.
• Manage and prioritize controls-related improvement tickets and coordinate with Software, RMDC, Nispera, and other internal teams to ensure timely resolution.
• Enforce change management processes, ensuring all control system modifications are reviewed, approved, documented, and fully traceable.
• Maintain accurate documentation of software releases, updates, functional descriptions, and system configurations during the service phase.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, procedures, and service delivery methods while promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of Fluence products, technologies, software platforms, and controls architectures at both site and enterprise levels.
• Build strong relationships with customers, partners, and internal stakeholders to support successful project execution and operational excellence.
• Travel up to 10% within Europe as required.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Automation, Controls Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in controls engineering, software engineering, or automation within the power utility, renewable energy, energy storage, or related industries.
• Experience with the design, operation, and maintenance of power generation, energy storage, or high-voltage electrical systems.
• Strong understanding of electricity transmission and distribution networks, energy management systems (EMS), grid codes, and grid services applications.
• Experience developing, testing, and validating control algorithms and applications for grid-connected systems.
• Proven ability to independently resolve complex technical issues and implement sustainable corrective actions.

Technical Skills

• Strong knowledge of industrial communication and SCADA protocols, including:

  • IEC 60870-5-101/103/104
  • IEC 61850 MMS
  • DNP3
  • Modbus
  • TCP/IP

• Experience with:

  • PLCs and Remote Terminal Units (RTUs)
  • SEL RTACs, relays, and metering devices
  • Siemens relays, meters, SCADA gateways, and data concentrators

• Experience with Linux-based operating systems and command-line environments.

• Proficiency in Python and Shell/Bash scripting.

• Experience using GitHub or similar version control systems.

• Knowledge of MathWorks Simulink and model-based systems engineering.

• Experience with C/C++ programming.

• Familiarity with high-voltage electrical equipment, including:

  • Inverters
  • Transformers
  • Controllers
  • I/O racks
  • Telecommunications systems

Key Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a structured approach to troubleshooting and root cause analysis.
• Excellent prioritization, risk management, and decision-making abilities.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse, international teams.
• Customer-focused mindset with a clear understanding of business drivers and operational requirements.
• Demonstrated ownership, accountability, and commitment to continuous improvement.
• Experience using Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) to manage maintenance activities and identify performance trends.
• Ability to establish strong working relationships and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

Languages

• Fluent in English.
• German and/or additional European language skills are considered an advantage.