About Sparkfund
Sparkfund is the utility services company unlocking capacity on the grid. Through its Distributed Capacity Procurement (DCP) model, Sparkfund enables utilities, energy majors, and large-load customers to deploy front-of-the-meter batteries and gensets as distribution infrastructure. By adding targeted capacity exactly where and when the grid needs it most, DCP helps meet demand, support reliability, and put downward pressure on rates. Sparkfund supports program design, grid value assessment, asset host engagement, and value chain management to ensure on-time, on-budget deployment with maximum system value and lowest cost.
With more than 3,200 projects deployed across 43 states and more than 300MW of energized assets constructed, Sparkfund is transforming customer-sited assets into a valuable portfolio resource for the benefit of our society.
Description
At Sparkfund, we help organizations deploy and scale distributed energy solutions that support a more resilient and sustainable energy future. Our work sits at the intersection of energy infrastructure, engineering, and emerging technologies — helping bring distributed energy resource (DER) projects from concept to reality.
We're looking for a Civil Engineer - Development to support the technical development of battery storage and distributed energy projects across Sparkfund's growing portfolio.
This role provides hands-on exposure to real-world project development, utility coordination, engineering design, permitting, and cross-functional project execution within one of the fastest-growing sectors in energy.
What You'll Do
Support Technical Project Development
- Conduct technical site assessments and feasibility reviews for DER projects
- Support engineering design development, technical reviews, and constructability evaluations
- Assist with interconnection applications, utility coordination, and technical documentation
- Help prepare permitting packages and support plan review processes with local jurisdictions
Engineering & Design Support
- Develop and review technical drawings, project documentation, and engineering deliverables
- Ensure designs align with applicable electrical codes, utility requirements, and project standards
- Support project teams in identifying and resolving technical or constructability issues
- Maintain accuracy and attention to detail across engineering and development documentation
Partner Cross-Functionally
- Collaborate with Development, Engineering, Permitting, and Project Execution teams
- Coordinate with third-party consultants, permitting partners, utilities, and environmental teams
- Support smooth handoffs from project development into construction and execution phases
- Assist with stakeholder and community coordination activities
Support Operational Excellence
- Track project development milestones, deliverables, and timelines
- Identify project risks, delays, or permitting constraints and escalate concerns appropriately
- Support development of technical standards, templates, tracking tools, and process documentation
- Assist in preparing preliminary project scopes, schedules, and development budgets
What We're Looking For
Required Experience
- 2–5 years of experience in electrical engineering, project development, or distributed energy system design
- Knowledge of electrical systems, utility interconnection processes, and applicable electrical codes (NEC)
- Strong technical documentation and organizational skills
- Proficiency with engineering design and analysis tools
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related technical field, or equivalent practical experience
Preferred
- Experience with solar, battery storage, EV charging, or distributed energy systems
- Exposure to utility interconnection applications and permitting workflows
- FE/EIT certification or interest in pursuing PE licensure
- Experience supporting construction or field-based infrastructure projects
What Success Looks Like
- Delivering accurate and reliable engineering and development support
- Helping projects move efficiently through development milestones
- Maintaining strong technical documentation and quality standards
- Supporting smooth coordination between technical and operational teams
- Continuously building technical expertise within the DER and energy infrastructure space
Benefits & Perks
- Medical, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance
- 401(k) with employer match
- Flexible time away policy
- Federal holidays observed plus Friday half-days
- 12 weeks gender-neutral paid caregiver leave
- Monthly communication stipend
- Opportunities to grow within a rapidly evolving energy industry
Compensation
$101,500 – $123,700 annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and geographic location alignment.
Location & Travel
This role is based in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area with remote and hybrid flexibility. Occasional travel may be required for project site visits, stakeholder meetings, and company gatherings.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Sparkfund is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all employees and applicants. We do not discriminate in employment on the basis of protected characteristics.
Disclaimer
This job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Duties, responsibilities, and requirements may change at any time based on business needs.