Firefighting Engineer (BESS)

Who We Are?

Cleantech Industry Resources accelerates United States solar, battery storage and EV projects by providing turnkey development as a service including 100% internal systems engineering. The company deploys a leading team that spun out of the largest solar power producer in the world. This team operates within a sophisticated suite of software to support projects from land origination, through to commercial operation.

Location of Position:

• Chennai/ Ahmedabad/ Noida

What We Offer

• Opportunity to join a top-notch, collaborative team of professionals
• Fantastic team environment and collaborative culture
• Professional development opportunities to grow into an industry leader
• Medical Insurance for the employee and family
• Spot Recognition bonus for exceptional performance
• Long Term Incentive policy
• Regular team outings, events, and activities to foster a positive work environment

Our Commitment to Diversity

At CIR, we are dedicated to nurturing a diverse and equitable workforce that truly reflects our community. We deeply value each persons unique perspective, skills, and experiences. CIR embraces all individuals, regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or nationality. We are steadfast in our commitment to fostering a just and inclusive world through intentional policies and actions. Your individuality enriches our collective strength, and we strive to ensure everyone feels respected, valued, and empowered.

Position Summary

As a Fire Protection Engineer BESS at CIR, you will be responsible for the design and engineering of fire detection and suppression systems for Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects. The role focuses on developing detailed engineering drawings, calculations, and design documentation in compliance with applicable codes and standards. You will work closely with electrical, BESS, and EPC teams to ensure seamless integration of fire protection systems within the overall plant design. The position requires strong understanding of lithium-ion battery fire risks, including thermal runaway, off-gassing, and explosion hazards, and the ability to translate these risks into effective protection strategies.

Core Responsibilities

Fire Protection System Design (Primary Responsibility)

• Develop detailed fire protection system designs for BESS project
• Prepare engineering drawings, including
• Fire protection layouts (containerized & building-based BESS)
• Piping layouts and routing
• Detection system layouts (smoke, heat, gas)
• Fire zoning and compartmentalization drawings
• Design and specify systems such as:
• Clean agent systems (e.g., Novec 1230, FM-200)
• Water-based systems (sprinkler / water mist, if applicable)
• Aerosol suppression systems
• Perform design calculations:
• Agent quantity calculations
• Hydraulic calculations (for water-based systems)
• Venting calculations (if required)

Codes, Standards & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with U.S. standards including: NFPA 855; NFPA 68;NFPA 69;NFPA 13; NFPA 72 (as applicable)
• Support permit drawings and documentation for AHJ approvals.
• Address comments from AHJs and fire marshals.

Detection & Monitoring Systems

• Design and integrate:
• Aspirating smoke detection systems (VESDA)
• Heat detection systems
• Gas detection systems (H, CO, VOCs)
• Develop cause & effect logic for fire system response.
• Ensure integration with:
• BMS (Battery Management System)
• SCADA / EMS

Engineering Calculations & Documentation

• Perform:
• Clean agent quantity calculations
• Hydraulic calculations for water systems
• Venting/explosion calculations (where required)
• Prepare:
• BOQ and technical specifications
• Design basis reports
• Calculation notes
• Compliance documentation

Documentation & Coordination

• Prepare detailed engineering drawings, layouts, and safety documentation.
• Coordinate with:
• Electrical & BESS design teams
• OEMs and vendors
• EPC contractors

Education Requirements

• Bachelors degree in Fire Engineering, Safety Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field is required.
• A masters degree in Fire Protection Engineering, Industrial Safety, or a relevant specialization is preferred
• Additional certifications such as NFPA (e.g., CFPS), Fire Safety certifications, or training in hazardous systems and industrial safety standards will be an added advantage, especially for roles involving Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).

Technical Skills and Experience

Software Proficiency:

• Proficiency in fire protection design and engineering tools such as AutoCAD and Revit for layout and system design is required.
• Familiarity with fire modelling and simulation software like PyroSim (FDS), Pathfinder, or similar tools is preferred.
• Working knowledge of electrical design and coordination tools, SCADA systems, and BMS interfaces is important for integration with BESS infrastructure.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and basic data analysis software is expected for documentation, reporting, and analysis.

Experience:

• 36 years of relevant experience in fire protection engineering, industrial safety, or firefighting system design, preferably within energy, infrastructure, or industrial projects. Prior experience with Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), renewable energy projects, or high-risk environments such as substations, data centres, or oil & gas facilities will be an added advantage.
• Hands-on experience in:
• Fire detection and suppression system design
• Engineering layouts and technical documentation
• System integration and coordination with multidisciplinary teams
• Review of shop drawings and vendor submittals

Psychosocial Skills /Human Skills/Behavioural Skills

• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to take ideas and run with them from concept to conclusion.
• Technical understanding of clean energy business processes
• Exceptional verbal and writing communication skills with superiors, peers, partners, and other stakeholders.
• Excellent interpersonal skills while managing multiple priorities in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. The physical demands of this job require an individual to be able to work at a computer for most of the day, be able to participate in conference calls and travel to team retreats on a time-to-time basis. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Work Conditions

The work environment is usually quiet (normal city traffic noises are common), a blend of artificial and natural light, temperate and generally supports a collaborative work environment. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Opportunity Employer

At Cleantech Industry Resources, we embrace diversity and uphold a strong dedication to establishing an all-encompassing atmosphere for both our staff and associates. Our choices in employment are free from any bias related to race, creed, nationality, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, physical limitations, veteran status, or any other legally safeguarded attributes.

Being an integral part of Cleantech Industry Resources means you can expect to be immersed in a realm of professional possibilities within a culture that nurtures teamwork, adaptability, and the embracing of all.