Project Manager - Utility-Scale BESS (IPP Company, Tokyo)
Project Manager - Utility-Scale BESS (IPP Company, Tokyo)
Position Title: Project Manager - Utility-Scale Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Employment Type: Full-time
Languages: Fluent Japanese & Business-level English
Industry: Independent Power Producer (IPP) / Renewable Energy
Function: EPC Management, Construction, Project Execution
About the Role
We are seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead the construction and execution of utility-scale Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects in Japan. The successful candidate will oversee full EPC project delivery-from design and procurement through construction, commissioning, and handover-ensuring safe, timely, cost-effective execution in alignment with IPP standards.
This role requires strong stakeholder management, bilingual communication skills, and deep understanding of energy infrastructure construction in Japan.
Key Responsibilities
1. Project Execution & Delivery
- Lead end-to-end project management for utility-scale BESS construction projects.
- Develop and manage project execution plans, schedules, and risk registers.
- Oversee EPC contractor performance and ensure contractual obligations are met.
- Monitor project progress, quality, cost, safety, and compliance to internal standards.
2. Construction Management
- Manage on-site construction activities in collaboration with EPC partners.
- Conduct site inspections and ensure construction follows design and QA/QC standards.
- Coordinate permitting processes, inspections, and utility/grid approvals.
- Ensure compliance with Japanese construction law, safety regulations, and industry codes.
3. Stakeholder & Cross-Functional Coordination
- Serve as primary interface between internal teams (engineering, procurement, finance, asset management) and external partners.
- Liaise with local authorities, utilities, permitting agencies, and community stakeholders.
- Report project status to senior leadership, including progress, risks, and mitigation plans.
4. Budgeting & Procurement
- Develop and manage CAPEX/OPEX budgets.
- Support procurement, vendor evaluation, and contract negotiation.
- Track costs and implement corrective actions to control budget deviations.
5. HSE & Compliance
- Ensure strict adherence to HSE standards and IPP safety culture.
- Implement site safety plans, risk assessments, and incident reporting processes.
Qualifications & Experience
Required
- Experience in power generation, renewable energy, EPC, or energy infrastructure construction.
- Proven experience managing utility-scale BESS, solar, wind, or substation projects.
- Strong knowledge of EPC contracts, construction management, and Japanese permitting processes.
- Fluent in Japanese and proficient in English (written & spoken).
Preferred
- Experience working in an IPP, utility, or major EPC contractor.
- Understanding of Japanese Grid Codes, METI guidelines, and utility interconnection processes.
- Experience in energy storage systems, lithium-ion technologies, SCADA/BMS/EMS.
- Ability to oversee multinational engineering/OEM/vendor teams.
FAQs
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