Manager, Commissioning

About Aecon

Aecon delivers some of the most complex and impactful infrastructure projects — from transformative transportation networks to critical energy, industrial and nuclear programs. The projects we build connect communities and power future generations. With deep roots in North America and a strong footprint internationally, Aecon brings global expertise and proudly serves public and private sector clients through its Construction and Concessions segment.

Safety Always is not only our #1 core value — it is the standard that anchors our culture. We believe the most ambitious projects deserve the most committed people. At Aecon, you won’t just build your career — you’ll help build what matters to enable future generations to thrive.

• Safety Always: Our number one core value. The safety of our people, projects, partners, and stakeholders is our priority focus — today and always.
• Integrity: We lead by example, with humility and courage.
• Accountability: We’re passionate about delivering on our commitments.
• Inclusion: We provide opportunities where people feel valued, supported, and empowered to contribute fully.

Aecon employees are incredibly proud to build some of the most impactful infrastructure of this generation — we call it Aecon Proud.

About the Role

The Project Site Commissioning Manager is responsible for planning, directing, and safely executing all pre-commissioning, commissioning, startup, testing, turnover, and operational readiness activities required from construction turnover to commercial operation. Provides leadership and oversight for all commissioning and startup activities associated with a power generation project, including combined cycle, simple cycle, reciprocating engine, renewable, and conventional thermal generation facilities. The role serves as the primary interface between Engineering, Construction, Operations, Owners, Vendors, and OEM representatives to ensure systems are tested, validated, and transferred safely and efficiently from construction completion through commercial operation.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all commissioning and startup matters.
• Develop and implement the project Commissioning and Startup Plan.
• Establish commissioning procedures, schedules, and turnover strategies.
• Define system boundaries and turnover packages.
• Coordinate pre-commissioning, commissioning, startup, and performance testing activities.
• Develop and maintain commissioning schedules and work plans.
• Lead and manage commissioning engineers, startup specialists, operators, and technical advisors.
• Coordinate activities between construction, engineering, vendors, subcontractors, and plant operations personnel.
• Ensure adequate staffing, training, and resource allocation throughout commissioning phases.
• Maintain overall responsibility for commissioning safety performance.
• Implement Lockout/Tagout (LOTO), clearance, and hazardous energy control programs.
• Conduct risk assessments and commissioning readiness reviews.
• Ensure compliance with project HSE requirements and regulatory standards.
• Manage the transfer of systems from Construction to Commissioning and from Commissioning to Owner Operations.
• Verify completion of punch-list items and turnover documentation.
• Coordinate operator training and operational readiness activities.
• Ensure systems meet contractual performance requirements before acceptance.
• Direct mechanical completion verification activities.
• Oversee flushing, cleaning, energization, functional testing, and startup of plant systems.
• Manage integrated system testing, first-fire activities, reliability runs, and performance testing.
• Validate system performance against design and contractual guarantees.
• Coordinate OEM field service representatives and vendor technical advisors.
• Interface with client representatives and plant operations personnel.
• Prepare regular commissioning reports, schedules, and readiness assessments.

Requirements

• 10–15+ years of power generation, industrial commissioning, startup, construction, or operations experience.
• 5+ years in a leadership role managing commissioning activities on large EPC projects.
• Experience with combined cycle gas turbine (CCGT), simple cycle, reciprocating engine, or thermal generation facilities.
• Demonstrated experience managing system turnover, testing, and commercial operation readiness.
• Basic knowledge of turbines, generators, HRSGs, transformers, switchyards, protection systems, DCS/PLC controls, balance-of-plant systems, fuel gas systems, and water treatment systems.
• Familiarity with applicable industry standards, codes, and safety requirements.

Skills

• Leadership and team development
• Startup and commissioning expertise
• Risk management and problem solving
• Contract and stakeholder management
• Schedule and cost control
• Safety leadership
• Written and verbal communication
• Operational readiness planning

Benefits

• Ensure you and your family receive the services and benefits needed to support your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
• Invest in your development through Aecon University, tuition reimbursement, and Leadership Programs.
• Create work environments focused on mutual respect, teamwork, collaboration, and new ideas through meaningful initiatives, training, and partnerships with Veteran groups.
• Operate responsibly by managing risk, safety, and environmental considerations across all projects and surrounding communities.