Director, Global Labs Operations - Battery Energy Storage Systems

Location This role is open in Houston, Texas, or remotely within the United States. Role Overview As the Director, Global Labs Operations you will lead Fluence’s global lab network across locations such as the US, Germany, India, and future sites. You will oversee lab operations, ensuring high standards in safety, performance, and technical excellence across all facilities. You will drive a strong safety-first culture, support lab expansion and new product introductions, and lead the technical setup and integration of lab projects. Working closely with cross-functional teams, you will align on strategy, resources, and timelines to ensure labs effectively support product development and testing. In addition, you will build and develop high-performing teams, coach technical talent, and strengthen lab capabilities through continuous improvement and investment in infrastructure and equipment. Key Responsibilities Responsible for Global Lab Operations across numerous lab facilities, in locations such as US, Germany, India, and any other future additions Provide effective oversight of the lab operational teams, to include safety programs, team training, and KPIs for financial and operational performance. Prioritize a culture where safety is at the forefront of everything we do by leading by example and engaging with Lab Managers and Safety Team to ensure safety policies and procedures are implemented and followed Manage the technical aspects of Lab projects, including identifying the required equipment and lead the integration aspect Support the development and execution of the global strategy to accommodate new products, partnering with cross-functional teams to align on cost, resource, and timeline estimations. Lead and participate in workgroups on establishing new labs and expanding current labs throughout the globe, owning the responsibility for determining test equipment needs Develop in-depth knowledge of the lab's area of research, with a strong understanding of the latest trends, technologies, and advancements Identify areas to expand existing lab’s component testing capabilities through infrastructure updates and equipment purchases Coach, mentor, and train new and existing team members in the technical capabilities of the Fluence product and lab equipment Participate in test planning workgroups as lab technical authority, providing sign-off on test readiness Drive improvements in systematic approach to lab preparation regarding NPIs Required Qualifications and Experience Bachelor’s degree with relevant experience or Master’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering, or a related field. Strong communication skills, including the ability to effectively convey complex technical concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences. Analytical mindset with a focus on identifying risks and optimization. Strong problem-solving skills with an agile mindset – ability to find alternative solutions as new issues arise. Experience in energy storage system commissioning and troubleshooting is a plus. Commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, quality, accountability, and professional growth. Willingness to travel up to 30%, including international travel, to labs domestically and internationally. Additional Skills Guide the evolution and development of the organization including headcount planning and recruitment. Develop a high-performing management team and culture through coaching, mentorship, facilitating peer support, and utilizing external educational resources. Cultivate a unified, growth-mindset culture through effective leadership and performance management / goal-setting. Equal Opportunity Employer At Fluence, we believe great teams are built on a collaborative and connected culture. We’re proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcome qualified applicants of all backgrounds. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, gender identity or expression, genetic information, or any other status protected by law. Work Authorization To join our team, you’ll need to be legally authorized to work in the United States at the time of application and throughout your employment, without the need for employer sponsorship. Please note that Fluence does not sponsor work visas for this position. #J-18808-Ljbffr Fluence Energy, LLC