The Commercial HVAC/Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Technician will support a project fleet comprising BESS facilities at three peaking power plants: the Hanford Peaker Plant (97 MW) in Hanford, CA; the Malaga Power Facility (96 MW) in Malaga, CA; and the Henrietta Peaker Plant (96 MW) in Lemoore, CA. Responsibilities will include HVAC maintenance and servicing of BESS units across these locations. This position offers the flexibility to be based in either Hanford or Malaga, CA.

Opportunity Summary

The HVAC/BESS Technician plays a crucial role in ensuring the optimal performance and energy efficiency of commercial HVAC systems while also effectively managing and operating battery energy storage systems (BESS) to meet grid compliance requirements. This role involves conducting preventive maintenance on BESS components, troubleshooting faults, and maintaining accurate records of all maintenance activities, thereby contributing to improved reliability and performance. The technician will also provide training and guidance to junior staff, collaborate with engineering teams, and adhere to safety protocols to create a safe and efficient working environment.

Primary Functions

HVAC System Maintenance

Perform routine inspections, maintenance, and repairs on commercial HVAC systems, ensuring optimal operation and energy efficiency. Diagnose and troubleshoot HVAC system malfunctions, including issues related to thermostats, ductwork, and refrigeration cycles, and carry out necessary corrective actions. Maintain records of HVAC maintenance activities, including repairs, inspections, and system performance metrics, to ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations.

BESS Monitoring and Operation

Monitor the performance of battery energy storage systems (BESS) through advanced control and Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) systems. Operate BESS to ensure optimal performance and compliance with grid requirements.

Preventive Maintenance

Perform routine preventive maintenance and inspections on BESS components, including batteries, inverters, switchgear, and control systems, while documenting findings and maintaining accurate records of maintenance activities, inspections, and performance metrics, and generating reports on BESS performance and any incidents encountered. Conduct weekly and monthly preventive maintenance tasks on BESS components according to established schedules and maintenance plans. Coordinate with the maintenance scheduler to ensure timely completion of preventive maintenance tasks and adherence to schedules. Proactively identify opportunities to optimize preventive maintenance procedures and schedules to enhance equipment reliability and longevity.

Troubleshooting and Diagnosis

Troubleshoot and diagnose faults, carrying out corrective maintenance activities to minimize downtime. Analyze performance data collected from BESS operations and maintenance activities, identifying trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement. Maintain an inventory of spare parts and consumables required for BESS maintenance and repair activities, coordinating with procurement and supply chain teams to ensure timely availability. Develop and implement a spare parts management strategy to minimize downtime and optimize equipment reliability.

Safety Protocols and Equipment Operation

Safely operate industrial equipment such as forklifts and manlifts, following manufacturer guidelines while conducting pre-operational checks, securing loads, and communicating effectively to ensure a safe work environment. Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures while identifying and mitigating potential safety hazards associated with BESS operation and maintenance.

Training and Knowledge Sharing

Provide training and guidance to junior technicians and new hires on BESS operation and maintenance procedures while sharing knowledge and expertise to foster a culture of learning and skill enhancement. Collaborate with engineering and operations teams to identify opportunities for improving BESS performance and efficiency while engaging in cross-training initiatives with other plant personnel. Stay updated on advancements in BESS technology and industry best practices through continuous learning and professional development activities. Participate in joint training sessions and knowledge-sharing activities to enhance understanding of interdependencies between BESS and conventional power generation systems. Perform other reasonable duties as requested by management.

NAES Safe

Safety is a core value of NAES and as a condition of employment, all employees are expected to be mentally alert and work safely at all times. Additionally, employees are required to adhere to all safety warnings and posted safety signs whenever on company property. Furthermore, employees must follow all NAES safety rules and procedures. Effectiveness in carrying out this responsibility is part of the evaluation of each employee’s performance.

Working Relationships

The HVAC / BESS Technician reports to the ____, and work under the general direction of other site/project Management. Additionally, The HVAC / BESS Technician coordinates with other site personnel as needed in the daily operation of the plant.

Physical Requirements and Working Conditions

Physical requirements include standing for extended periods of time, stair and ladder climbing and routinely lifting up to 50 pounds. Protective equipment must be worn in the performance of some duties (e.g., hard hats, safety glasses, air masks, ear protection, chemical suits, hot gloves, and high voltage protective equipment, etc.). Work with hazardous materials may be required. There are extensive smoking restrictions in and around the facility.

Fitness for Duty

All employees will participate in the Fitness for Duty Program. This program includes a post-offer physical examination and drug screening and post-employment random drug screening.

Work Schedule

This position entails a regular work schedule consisting of four 10-hour shifts per week, during regular day shift hours. Position requires extended working hours and varied shifts with weekend and holiday work, as required by schedules, workload, and plant conditions. "On call" status will periodically be required.

Compensation

The initial starting compensation will range from $35 to $45 per hour and will include an annual performance bonus.

Job Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy Engineering, or a related field is preferred but not required. Alternatively, candidates with specialized training or certifications in Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) operation and maintenance will also be considered. Valid HVAC certifications, such as EPA 608, are required to ensure compliance with environmental regulations and proper handling of refrigerants. Knowledge of commercial HVAC systems design, installation, and maintenance, including familiarity with controls, ductwork, and airflow management, is important for optimizing energy efficiency. Experience with commercial HVAC integration and energy management systems, including the ability to monitor and control HVAC performance, is essential for maximizing overall system efficiency. Understanding of BESS components, including batteries, inverters, and control systems, is essential for effectively managing and optimizing their performance. The ability to diagnose and resolve technical issues efficiently, including knowledge of diagnostic tools and methodologies, is critical for maintaining uptime and reliability. Familiarity with renewable energy technologies and their integration into power grids, including both grid-tied and off-grid configurations, is essential for understanding the broader energy landscape. Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including engineers, technicians, and project managers, are essential for successful project deployment and maintenance. Must possess and maintain a valid Drivers License at all times.

About NAES

NAES Corporation is the leading provider of operations, maintenance, and engineering services for energy facilities. We have established ourselves as a reliable partner for clients in North America and internationally, offering services across power generation, oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors. Additionally, our growing family of companies enables us to address the entire life cycle of power generation and other industrial plants.

NAES is committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace. It is the practice of NAES to seek employees of the highest quality and to select individuals on the basis of merit and competence, without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, disability, military status or affiliation protected under USERRA, or any other basis of discrimination prohibited by applicable local, state and federal law.