Grid Connection Manager

Company Description

Established in 2002, ib vogt GmbH is specialized in the Development, Design and Engineering, Financing, EPC and Operation of solar power and provides turnkey solar power plant solutions to investors internationally.

As a manufacturer-independent integrated developer, the company focuses on tailor-made solar power plant solutions that maximize lifecycle performance and returns.

Since 2009, ib vogt has commissioned plants with a capacity of almost 2 Gigawatt. We employ over 840 specialists, in all areas of the solar power plant value chain in over 40 countries. The company operates internationally from offices in Spain Germany, Italy, Netherlands, France, Poland, USA, Australia, United Kingdom, Panama, India and South East Asia.

Job Description

The Grid Connection Manager will serve as the primary point of contact for managing grid connection, including coordination of solution studies, overseeing the issuance of ATRs, finalizing Grid Connection Agreements (GCAs), and maintaining proactive communication with authorities, grid operators, and technical advisors to facilitate approvals and ensure smooth project progression.

Key Tasks

Leadership in Grid Connection Process Management

• Lead and oversee all aspects of the grid connection process, from conceptual planning to operational implementation, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards
• Serve as the primary point of contact for managing grid connections, including solution studies, overseeing the issuance of ATRs, finalizing Grid Connection Agreements (GCAs), and engaging with authorities, grid operators, and technical advisors to streamline approvals and project progression
• Own and drive the execution of grid connection timelines and budgets, ensuring strategic alignment, cost efficiency, and timely delivery
• Develop and implement revisions to solution studies and related documentation in response to evolving project needs and regulatory changes

Engineering and Design Leadership

• Lead the engineering and design efforts for grid connections of utility-scale photovoltaic (PV) power plants and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
• Provide technical expertise to support project development during early-stage planning and expansion into new markets
• Take ownership of engineering deliverables and ensure optimal design execution using tools such as AutoCAD and PVSyst
• Qualify, manage, and oversee external engineering consultants to ensure project specifications and technical requirements are met

Tender and Subcontractor Coordination

• Specify and manage the technical aspects of tendering interconnection infrastructure projects, including power transformers, substations, AIS/GIS switchgear, cable routes, and overhead lines
• Coordinate subcontractors during the design and execution phases in close collaboration with the on-site team, ensuring technical alignment and efficient project delivery
• Oversee subcontractor qualification and selection, ensuring adherence to project objectives and quality standards

Project Monitoring and Risk Management

• Take ownership of grid connection project monitoring, conducting feasibility studies, assessing risks, and tracking budgets and deadlines to provide senior management with regular strategic updates
• Implement and enforce quality assurance procedures to mitigate risks and enhance project outcomes

Stakeholder Engagement and Documentation Management

• Lead technical discussions with utilities, regulators, and key stakeholders to align project requirements and ensure smooth integration
• Aggregate, manage, and produce comprehensive technical documentation for internal teams, clients, lenders, and external advisors, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and clarity in reporting
• Represent the company in high-level technical negotiations and discussions to drive strategic project success

Operational and Technical Problem-Solving

• Take a proactive approach in identifying and resolving grid connection challenges, escalating issues when necessary to maintain project timelines and execution quality
• Supervise and ensure completeness, accuracy, and compliance of technical and contractual documentation related to grid connections
• Continuously evaluate and improve grid connection strategies to enhance project efficiency and industry positioning

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Electrical Engineering, Energy Engineering, or a related field
• Minimum 2 years of relevant industry experience
• Proficiency in design and drawing tools such as AutoCAD
• Experience in a similar position
• Creative and entrepreneurial, go-getter, positive attitude, performing under pressure
• Proven references in the field of energy infrastructure development and Experience with large-scale land-based solar projects are a big advantage
• Experience with permit processes and the process of changing zoning plans (ÚPD) is an advantage
• Experience, network and knowledge of grid network operators, relevant authorities and municipalities
• Self-driven and independent work talent, performing well in a team
• Excellent communication, negotiation, well-developed interpersonal and management skills
• Knowledge of legal basics and the ability lead negotiation about conditions of various type of contracts
• Certifications in AutoCAD and other design tools are advantageous
• Proficiency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal

Additional Information

• A truly international working environment with colleagues from all over the world
• An open-minded, friendly, dynamic, and highly motivated team
• Interesting and challenging tasks, and thus a scope of professional growth and development
• We encourage both team work and personal responsibility
• Very good opportunities for professional and personal development
• Competitive remuneration, and other exciting benefits

At ib vogt, we are committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace where everyone can thrive. We believe that embracing diverse perspectives drives innovation and helps us better serve the global communities we operate in. As an equal opportunity employer, we provide employment opportunities without regard to age, ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, sex, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy or maternity, marriage and civil partnership, or any other protected status.

We strive to create an accessible recruitment process for all candidates and are happy to discuss reasonable accommodations to support your application. As a global company, we acknowledge that accessibility provisions may vary by location depending on local infrastructure and legal requirements. If you have a disability or require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please let us know - we will do our best to support you.