# How to Become an Energy Storage Engineer
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**Featured Image:**
[Engineer in safety glasses examines a circuit board at a lab bench.] (https://educatingengineers.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/11/energy_storage_engineer_at_work_in_a_clean_2f78fcb5-847a-4173-9004-4665cd844f4a.jpg)
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**Author:** Educating Engineers Editorial Team
**Published:** November 25, 2025
**Updated:** November 25, 2025
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As renewable energy and electric vehicles expand, engineers who can design and manage advanced storage systems are in high demand. The title **“energy storage engineer”** isn’t a formal discipline like civil or biomedical engineering—it’s a specialized role within fields such as **electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering** .
Professionals in these roles develop and optimize technologies that store energy efficiently and support a cleaner, more resilient power grid. This guide explains what energy storage engineers do, how to prepare through established engineering degree paths, and how to align your skills with this fast-growing area of sustainable technology.
## **What Does an Energy Storage Engineer Do?**
An energy storage engineer isn’t part of a separate engineering discipline—it’s a specialized role within established fields like electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering. In this position, you apply core technical skills to the challenges of storing, managing, and integrating energy across emerging technologies and large-scale systems.
### **Role and Responsibilities**
If you pursue this career path, you might:
- **Design and optimize energy storage systems** such as lithium-ion batteries, flow batteries, or grid-scale installations.
- **Work with hardware, power electronics, and control systems** , using modeling tools to predict performance, efficiency, and life-cycle behavior.
- **Develop, test, and integrate systems** , including battery-inverter control setups, hardware-in-the-loop simulations, or grid interconnection validation.
- **Operate across diverse sectors** —from R&D and system design to testing and field operations.
- **See different job titles** describing similar work, including Battery Systems Engineer, Energy Systems Engineer, Power Systems Engineer, or Grid Storage Engineer.
- **Apply your skills in multiple industries** , such as electric vehicles, solar-plus-storage, utility grid modernization, aerospace, or defense technology.
### **Where This Role Fits**
Because there are many [types of engineers] (https://educatingengineers.com/careers/types-of-engineering-jobs/) working on related problems, it helps to understand where energy storage fits in. These engineers often bridge several disciplines:
- From **electrical engineering** , you draw on power systems, control theory, and inverter design.
- From **mechanical or chemical engineering** , you learn about thermal management, materials, and electrochemical processes.
- From **systems or energy engineering** , you gain skills in modeling, grid integration, and life-cycle analysis.
If you’re interested in helping the world transition toward cleaner and more reliable energy, this is a field where you can apply problem-solving, design, and analytical skills to make a measurable impact.
## **Educational Pathway to Energy Storage Engineering**
To prepare for a career in energy storage, you’ll follow a traditional engineering route while shaping your studies around power systems, batteries, or renewable technologies. Employers look for a strong technical foundation and evidence that you can apply it to real-world energy challenges.
### **Recommended Undergraduate Degrees**
Most energy storage engineers earn degrees in:
- **Electrical engineering** – covering power systems, control systems, and energy conversion.
- **Mechanical engineering** – focused on design, thermodynamics, and system integration.
- **Chemical engineering** – emphasizing electrochemistry, materials, and process design for batteries.
- **Materials science or engineering physics** – ideal if you’re drawn to the chemistry and innovation behind storage materials.
- **Energy systems engineering** – an interdisciplinary option available at some universities that blends elements of the above.
Courses in renewable energy, power electronics, or battery systems can help you tailor your education to the energy storage field.
### **Graduate Education (Optional but Helpful)**
A master’s degree isn’t required but can help you specialize. Common choices include:
- **MS in Renewable Energy or Energy Systems Engineering** **
**
- **MS in Electrical or Mechanical Engineering** with a focus on energy storage, grid integration, or power electronics
Graduate study offers opportunities to explore storage technologies through research, thesis work, or internships, which can open doors to advanced technical or leadership roles.
### **Building Experience Early**
Hands-on learning is one of the best ways to stand out. You can:
- Join research groups focused on battery design or power systems.
- Complete internships with utilities, EV manufacturers, or clean energy startups.
- Participate in student competitions related to renewable energy or electric vehicles.
By choosing a solid engineering degree and building practical experience around energy systems, you’ll graduate with the technical background and problem-solving skills needed to move into this fast-growing area of engineering.
## **Licensing and Certifications**
Most energy storage engineers build their credibility through technical skills and project experience, but certain credentials can strengthen your professional profile—especially if you plan to work in regulated or public-sector roles.
### **Professional Engineer (PE) License**
A **Professional Engineer (PE)** license is not always required, but it can be an asset for engineers working on utility, infrastructure, or government projects. To earn it, you’ll typically:
1. Complete an ABET-accredited engineering degree.
2. Pass the **Fundamentals of Engineering (FE)** exam.
3. Gain four years of relevant work experience.
4. Pass the **Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE)** exam.
For most private-sector or R&D roles—such as battery design or energy system integration—a PE license is optional, but it may help demonstrate professional competence and commitment to safety and ethics.
### **Technical and Industry Certifications**
Beyond licensing, certifications can help you demonstrate specific expertise related to energy storage systems:
- **Battery Management Systems (BMS) and power electronics certifications** from professional bodies such as SAE International or IEEE.
- **Energy modeling and simulation training** , including tools like MATLAB, PSCAD, or HOMER Energy.
- **Renewable energy and grid integration credentials** , such as the **North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP)** certification for professionals working in solar + storage.
- **Specialized manufacturer or vendor training** , often offered by battery, inverter, or control-system companies.
### **Experience vs. Credentials**
While credentials can help you stand out, employers in the energy storage industry often prioritize **hands-on experience and practical problem-solving** . Projects that demonstrate system design, data analysis, or integration work are often more influential than formal certificates.
In short, a combination of a strong technical degree, applied project experience, and select certifications relevant to your focus area will position you well for a successful career in energy storage engineering.
## **Skills and Tools That Matter**
To succeed as an energy storage engineer, you’ll need both a solid grounding in engineering fundamentals and a working knowledge of the tools and technologies shaping today’s storage systems. This combination helps you move fluidly between design, modeling, testing, and system integration.
### **Core Technical Knowledge**
Energy storage engineering draws from several disciplines. Key areas of expertise include:
- **Battery chemistries and charging systems** – understanding lithium-ion, flow, and emerging solid-state technologies, along with their charge–discharge dynamics and degradation mechanisms.
- **Power electronics and energy management systems** – designing and controlling converters, inverters, and power interfaces that connect storage to generation or grid systems.
- **Thermal and mechanical design** – ensuring systems manage heat efficiently and maintain structural integrity during operation.
- **Grid interconnection and control** – applying knowledge of distributed energy resources, smart grids, and utility-scale storage integration.
### **Analytical and Computational Tools**
Employers expect proficiency in engineering software and modeling environments such as:
- **MATLAB and Simulink** – for modeling control systems and simulating dynamic performance.
- **PSCAD or PSS/E** – for power system studies and transient analysis.
- **HOMER Energy or RETScreen** – for renewable integration and economic modeling.
- **Python** – for data analysis, automation, and algorithm development.
- **Finite element and CAD tools** – for thermal and mechanical modeling of components.
### **Applied and Research Skills**
In addition to software, practical skills help you bridge concept and execution:
- **System integration and testing** , including hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulations.
- **Data acquisition and analysis** to monitor performance, safety, and efficiency.
- **Cross-disciplinary communication** , working with chemists, data scientists, and project managers on collaborative teams.
Strong analytical thinking and adaptability are just as valuable as any single technical skill. The energy storage industry evolves quickly, and your ability to learn new modeling tools or adapt to emerging battery technologies will keep you competitive in this fast-changing field.
## **Where Do Energy Storage Engineers Work?**
Energy storage engineers work wherever electricity, mobility, and sustainability intersect. You’ll find opportunities in both established industries and emerging sectors that depend on efficient, scalable storage systems to support cleaner, more reliable energy.
### **Utilities and Grid Operators**
Utility companies and regional grid operators are major employers of energy storage engineers. You might help design and deploy **grid-scale battery installations** , integrate storage with renewable generation, or improve system reliability through load balancing and frequency regulation.
**Examples:** Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E), Con Edison, Duke Energy.
### **Battery and Electric Vehicle Manufacturers**
If you’re interested in transportation electrification, manufacturers of **batteries, EVs, and charging infrastructure** offer hands-on design and testing roles. You could work on battery pack design, energy management systems, or manufacturing optimization.
**Examples:** Tesla, Rivian, LG Energy Solution, Panasonic Energy.
### **Clean Energy and Renewable Integration Firms**
Energy storage is central to renewable power growth. Clean energy companies rely on engineers to **model, install, and maintain solar-plus-storage and wind-plus-storage systems** , ensuring grid stability and cost efficiency.
**Examples:** Fluence, NextEra Energy Resources, AES Clean Energy.
### **Engineering Consulting and R&D**
Consulting firms and research institutions hire energy storage engineers for **feasibility studies, performance modeling, and prototype development** . These roles often blend simulation work with field testing or product validation.
**Examples:** National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), Sandia National Laboratories, various energy-focused startups.
### **Government and Aerospace Applications**
Government agencies and defense contractors fund extensive energy storage research to improve grid resilience and develop portable power systems for aerospace or military use.
**Examples:** U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), NASA, ARPA-E.
From utilities to EV startups, the growing reliance on storage technologies means you can apply your expertise across multiple industries—each contributing to the larger transition toward a sustainable energy future.
## **Energy Storage Engineer Salary and Job Outlook**
Careers in energy storage are expanding alongside the broader clean energy transition. As utilities, automakers, and technology companies invest in grid modernization and electrification, engineers with energy storage expertise are in high demand across the U.S. and internationally.
### **Salary Overview**
While there’s no separate category for “energy storage engineer” in federal labor data, related roles provide reliable benchmarks. According to the[ U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)] (https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/home.htm) :
- **Electrical engineers** earned a median annual wage of **$118,780** as of 2024.
- **Mechanical engineers** earned a median annual wage of **$102,320** .
Engineers working in advanced energy sectors—especially those focused on **battery design, electric vehicles, or grid-scale storage** —often exceed these figures.
### **Job Outlook**
Demand for energy storage engineers continues to grow as renewable generation increases and grid reliability becomes a national priority. Factors driving this growth include:
- Expanding **state and federal energy storage mandates** that require utilities to add capacity.
- Ongoing **investments by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)** and initiatives like the **Energy Storage Grand Challenge** , which fund R&D and deployment.
- The rapid **electrification of transportation** , fueling the need for battery system experts and charging-infrastructure engineers.
Together, these trends suggest sustained employment growth and career stability in the coming decade. If you pursue this path, you’ll find opportunities not only to advance technologically but also to contribute directly to the global effort to build a cleaner, more resilient energy system.
## **Tips for Breaking Into the Field**
Energy storage is a hands-on, innovation-driven field—so your ability to connect classroom learning with real-world applications will make a big difference. Here are practical ways to start building experience and visibility early.
### **Focus Your Coursework and Projects**
Choose electives, labs, or senior design projects that emphasize:
- **Battery systems or materials development** — from lithium-ion to emerging solid-state technologies.
- **Energy modeling and simulation** — using tools like MATLAB, PSCAD, or HOMER Energy.
- **Power and control systems** — particularly those involving renewable energy integration.
These experiences help demonstrate your ability to apply core engineering principles to storage-specific challenges.
### **Pursue Internships and Research Opportunities**
Internships provide invaluable exposure to real projects and industry tools. Look for opportunities with:
- **Utilities or grid operators** working on battery or renewable integration projects.
- **EV and battery manufacturers** such as Tesla, Rivian, or Panasonic Energy.
- **Government and research organizations** like the DOE, ARPA-E, or national labs such as NREL.
Participating in undergraduate research on topics like materials testing, charge management, or control algorithms can also help you stand out.
### **Stay Engaged with the Industry**
Energy storage evolves quickly, so staying informed helps you anticipate trends and skill demands.
- Follow initiatives like the **DOE Energy Storage Grand Challenge** or **ARPA-E research projects** .
- Attend industry events such as the **Energy Storage Association (ESA) Conference & Expo** or the **Advanced Automotive Battery Conference (AABC)** .
- Join professional organizations like **IEEE** , **ASME** , or **Electrochemical Society** to network and learn from experienced engineers.
### **Build Skills That Translate**
Certifications and short courses can help you demonstrate applied expertise—especially in:
- Battery management systems
- Renewable integration and grid modeling
- Data analysis and system automation
By combining a strong technical foundation with focused projects, internships, and industry engagement, you’ll be ready to compete for energy storage roles that connect innovation with the world’s growing demand for sustainable power.
## **FAQs**
### **Do I need a degree labeled “Energy Storage Engineering”?**
No. There’s no dedicated undergraduate degree in energy storage engineering, and employers don’t expect one. Most professionals in this field hold degrees in **electrical, mechanical, chemical, or materials engineering** —and apply their knowledge to storage-related systems such as batteries, thermal storage, or grid integration.
### **What industries hire energy storage engineers?**
Energy storage engineers work across sectors that depend on reliable, flexible power. Common employers include **renewable energy companies** , **electric vehicle manufacturers** , **utilities** , **aerospace contractors** , and **research organizations** . Roles often overlap with job titles such as Battery Systems Engineer, Power Systems Engineer, or Energy Systems Engineer.
### **Can I enter the field with just a bachelor’s degree?**
Yes. Many entry-level energy storage roles—particularly in testing, integration, or operations—are open to candidates with a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience. Internships, senior design projects, or undergraduate research can make a strong difference in helping you get started.
### **Are there online degrees that can help?**
Yes. Some universities offer **online master’s programs** in renewable energy, energy systems, or electrical and mechanical engineering with energy-focused coursework. In addition, several **bachelor’s programs in electrical or mechanical engineering** are available in hybrid or online formats, which can be helpful if you’re balancing work or other commitments.
### **What skills should I prioritize early on?**
Focus on strengthening your understanding of **power electronics, battery fundamentals, data analysis, and system modeling** . Familiarity with tools like MATLAB, Python, or HOMER Energy—and an awareness of grid integration principles—can make you more competitive for internships and full-time roles.
### **Is energy storage a stable career choice?**
Energy storage is considered a promising and fast-growing area within the broader engineering landscape. As renewable energy capacity expands and electric vehicles become more common, demand for professionals with storage expertise is expected to remain strong. While future trends can shift with policy and technology, this field currently offers diverse opportunities for engineers interested in sustainability and innovation.
## **Moving Forward in Energy Storage Engineering**
If you’re drawn to solving complex problems at the intersection of energy, technology, and sustainability, energy storage engineering offers a compelling path. Start by pursuing a solid degree in **electrical, mechanical, or chemical engineering** , then seek out courses, research, or internships that focus on **batteries, power systems, or renewable integration** .
From electric vehicles to grid-scale storage, this field touches nearly every aspect of the clean energy transition. By combining strong technical training with curiosity and adaptability, you can build a career that contributes to the development of a more efficient and resilient energy future.