Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical

Wärtsilä is an innovative technology company known for being a forerunner in the Marine and Energy markets. Every day, we put our hearts and minds into turning Wärtsilä's purpose of enabling sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services into reality. Our aim is to provide increased value to both our customers and society. New, game-changing ideas and continuous improvement have been part of our DNA since 1834. Together, we can create new business opportunities and a more sustainable future.

About the role

We are looking for a Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical to join our team. This is a full-time, on-site position based in Houston, Texas; Fort Lauderdale or Melbourne, Florida; Harvey, Louisiana; or Herndon, Virginia. If you are an experienced electrical commissioning professional who enjoys hands-on site leadership, global project exposure, and contributing to complex power plant projects, this role offers a unique chance to make a direct impact while working with an international team.

This position offers a rotational schedule and assignment-related support that may include per diem/travel allowance, furnished accommodation during site assignments, project-arranged transportation, business travel insurance, and paid time off, depending on assignment type and applicable policy.

Responsibilities

During Installation

• Lead and support electrical installation activities on site, guiding subcontractors to deliver safe, high-quality work.
• Coordinate electrical activities with civil and mechanical teams to keep execution aligned and efficient.
• Review electrical designs, installation instructions, and delivered materials to ensure readiness, quality, and compliance.
• Drive compliance with HSSE (Health, Safety, Security, and Environment) requirements and safe working practices throughout installation activities.
• Support testing activities by ensuring approved methods, calibrated equipment, and accurate documentation of results.
• Monitor progress, maintain installation records, and ensure punch items and as-built information are properly managed through handover.
• Participate in site meetings and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to proactively resolve issues.

During Commissioning

• Execute and oversee start-up, testing, and commissioning activities for electrical systems within the contract scope.
• Follow commissioning plans and performance test procedures to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operation.
• Troubleshoot technical issues, document findings, and support timely resolution on site.
• Maintain strong HSSE standards and ensure the use of safe, approved, and calibrated testing practices during commissioning.
• Keep commissioning records, test results, punch items, and handover documentation accurate and up to date.
• Train and support operations personnel and assist customers during commissioning and testing activities.
• Work closely with the wider project team to deliver a smooth and successful plant handover.

Requirements

• B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering.
• Hands-on experience performing electrical commissioning tasks.
• Knowledge of relevant electrical codes, standards, and testing practices.
• Understanding of utility-scale generation construction and commissioning.
• Strong HSSE awareness and ability to enforce safety standards.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, multicultural environments.
• Strong adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in English.
• Ability and willingness to travel internationally for extended periods (approx. 250 days/year).

Preferred Qualifications

• Additional languages beneficial (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, Finnish).
• Experience with Wärtsilä equipment, energy storage systems, or engine power plants.
• Experience supervising subcontractors in global or remote project sites.
• Demonstrated competency in client-facing technical roles.
• Familiarity with the Last Planner System or lean construction methodologies.

Schedule

This role follows a rotating schedule of three months of work followed by 10 days of paid time off.

Travel Requirements

International travel is required, with approximately 250 days per year working on-site abroad. Travel support may include daily per diem/travel allowance, furnished accommodation, and project-arranged transportation.

Benefits

Wärtsilä North America offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.