Senior Commissioning Manager

Position Overview

The Senior Commissioning Manager is responsible for leading the safe, systematic, and efficient commissioning of industrial systems and facilities. This role ensures new and modified equipment, processes, and control systems are installed, tested, and transitioned to operations in a structured and controlled manner. The position works cross-functionally with Engineering, Maintenance, Operations, EHS, and contractors to deliver fully operational, reliable systems. This role requires strong technical leadership, field presence, and the ability to drive schedule adherence while maintaining safety and quality standards.

Position Responsibilities

• Commissioning Leadership
  • Lead development and execution of commissioning plans, procedures, and schedules.
  • Establish system boundaries and turnover packages (Mechanical Completion → Pre-Commissioning → Commissioning → Operational Readiness).
  • Develop and manage commissioning checklists, punch lists, and documentation.
  • Cookwalkdowns and system handoffs with construction and operations teams.
  • Drive structured startup sequencing and operational readiness reviews.
• Technical Oversight
  • Review and validate P&IDs, control narratives, cause & effect matrices, and interlock logic.
  • Oversee functional testing of electrical, instrumentation, automation, and process systems.
  • Lead loop checks, equipment checkout, energization plans, and first-fill/startup activities.
  • Identify and mitigate commissioning risks before startup.
  • Support troubleshooting and optimization during ramp-up.
• Cross-Functional Coordination
  • Serve as the primary liaison between Engineering, Construction, Operations, and Maintenance during startup.
  • Ensure training materials and SOPs are in place prior to system turnover.
  • Facilitate daily commissioning meetings and progress reporting.
  • Align with process engineering to ensure system intent matches design basis.
• Safety & Compliance
  • Ensure all commissioning activities comply with company safety standards and regulatory requirements.
  • Lead Pre-Startup Safety Reviews (PSSR).
  • Verify LOTO, MOC, and permitting processes are followed during energization and startup.
• Schedule & Performance
  • Develop detailed commissioning timelines and track critical path items.
  • Identify bottlenecks and escalate issues impacting startup.
  • Provide routine progress updates to senior leadership.
  • Drive closure of punch items and deficiencies impacting operational readiness.

Basic Qualifications

• A high school diploma or GED is required.
• At least 10+ years of experience in industrial operations, construction, or commissioning.
• A strong understanding of: Process flow diagrams (PFDs) and P&IDs, DCS/PLC control systems, Electrical and instrumentation systems, Mechanical equipment (pumps, compressors, filter presses, heat exchangers, etc.).
• Demonstrated leadership in fast-paced startup environments.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability.

Desired Qualities

• A strong work ethic and commitment to reliability and punctuality.
• A positive, team-oriented attitude with a willingness to assist wherever needed.
• A strong attention to detail and a proactive approach to identifying and resolving issues.
• Good communication skills and ability to interact professionally across departments.
• The ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced environment.
• A flexible and adaptable approach to changing priorities or emergency repairs.
• A self-motivated individual capable of working independently with minimal supervision.
• A commitment to safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
• A desire to learn and grow within a dynamic industrial setting.
• A sense of ownership and pride in maintaining a safe, clean, and efficient facility.