Lab Development Manager-India

OUR CULTURE AND VALUES

We are guided by our passion to transform the way we power our world. Achieving our goals requires creativity, diversity of ideas and backgrounds, and building trust to effect change and move with speed.

We are Leading

Fluence currently has thousands of MW of energy storage projects operated or awarded worldwide in addition to the thousands of MW of projects managed by our trading platform—and we are growing every day.

We are Responsible

Fluence is defined by its unwavering commitment to safety, quality, and integrity.

We are Agile

We achieve our goals and meet our customer’s needs by cultivating curiosity, adaptability, and self-reflection in our teams.

We are Fun

We value the diversity in thought and experience of our coworkers and customers. Through honest, forthcoming, and respectful communications we work to ensure that Fluence is an inclusive and welcoming environment for all. 

Reports To: Sr Director of Global Labs

Job Summary:

The Systems Lab Development Manager is responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing the operation and expansion of Fluence’s energy storage systems laboratory facilities in India. This includes managing the design, construction, and commissioning of new lab spaces, as well as the integration of new equipment and technologies on current space. The role requires strong project management skills, technical expertise, and the ability to work cross-functionally with various teams to ensure the successful completion of expansion projects on time and within budget. The willing candidate will be a self-starter, able and willing to plan your work, and the work of others, to support Fluence business objectives, often without direct oversight. They will have passion for energy storage, collaborative engineering, and learning from others.  

Key Responsibilities:

Project Planning and Management:

Lead the planning and execution of lab expansion projects, including new construction, renovations, and upgrades.

Develop detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets, and ensure adherence to these throughout the project lifecycle.

Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and internal stakeholders to ensure project requirements are met.

Facility Design and Optimization:

Collaborate with scientific and technical teams to design lab spaces that meet operational needs and safety standards.

Ensure the layout and design of the expanded lab spaces optimize workflow, efficiency, and compliance with regulatory standards.

Oversee the selection and installation of lab equipment, ensuring proper integration with existing systems.

Organizing, supporting, and execution of the mechanical and electrical design, testing, commissioning and repair of test configurations and prototypes of battery storage systems.

Stakeholder Collaboration:

Work closely with senior management, lab staff, and external partners to align expansion plans with organizational goals.

Communicate project progress, challenges, and updates to all relevant stakeholders.

Manage relationships with vendors, contractors, and regulatory agencies to ensure successful project execution.

Regulatory Compliance and Safety:

Ensure that all expansion activities comply with relevant regulatory requirements, including building codes, environmental regulations, and industry standards.

Work with safety officers to incorporate safety features and protocols into the design and operation of the expanded facilities.

Prepare and maintain documentation required for regulatory approvals and inspections. 

Designing the instruction and training programs to establish electrically qualified persons. Other regional labs can assist.

Budget Management:

Develop and manage the project budget, ensuring cost-effective use of resources.

Monitor and report on financial performance, identifying areas for cost savings and efficiency improvements.

Approve expenditures and manage procurement processes related to the expansion project.

Quality Assurance:

Implement quality control measures to ensure that the expanded facilities meet the highest standards of construction and operational readiness.

Conduct regular inspections and audits during and after construction to ensure compliance with project specifications and industry standards.

Oversee the commissioning and validation of new lab spaces and equipment.

Risk Management:

Identify potential risks associated with the expansion project and develop mitigation strategies.

Ensure contingency plans are in place to address any unforeseen challenges or delays.

Monitor and manage project risks throughout the project lifecycle.

Team Leadership:

Lead and motivate lab personnel, project teams, including internal staff and external contractors, to achieve project goals.

Provide guidance and support to team members, fostering a collaborative and productive work environment.

Conduct performance evaluations and identify training needs to enhance team capabilities.

Required Qualifications include:

•Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Systems Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent lab experience.

•Licensed electrician or electrical test engineer for low voltage power systems equipment (up to 1500Vdc/600Vac) and extensive training and experience with hands-on electrical 

•work and safety procedures.

•6+ years industry experience, with background in renewable energy systems, power conversion, energy storage, PV, power systems control, or similar field

•Familiarity with the NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

•Knowledge of inverter and battery technology (Module, BMS, etc), thermal components, electrical machines, control and control technology as well as basic knowledge of CAD.

•Understanding of product testing and development processes.

•Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) is a bonus

•Knowledge of testing setups – especially with new technology. Ability to deal with ambiguity and brainstorm new test setups that will accurately repeat failures and fixes

•Strong problem-solving skills. Strong communication skills, both verbal and written. Experience in using MS Office applications (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)

•Experience with Jira

•Familiarity with local India regulations and local electrical code. Understand how those regulations impact safety and lab day to day operations.

•Ability to travel up to 20% of time (trips to customers, suppliers, and occasionally to projects or testing sites).