Testing & Commissioning Manager

About the role

The Lead Testing & Commissioning Manager (LT&CM) oversees and manages testing and commissioning activities for complex high-voltage substation projects—including both greenfield and brownfield scopes. The LT&CM leads the planning, execution, verification, and documentation of all Protection & Control (P&C), Automation & Integration (A&I), SCADA, Network Security, and HV component systems. In multi-stage brownfield projects, the LT&CM may also fulfill Construction Manager duties.

Role & Responsibilities

• Commissioning Leadership:
  • Develop and manage comprehensive commissioning plans, forms, outage/energization strategies, and test documentation.
  • Cook up and lead commissioning efforts across: Primary equipment (HV apparatus), Relay protection systems, P&C and A&I devices, SCADA and cybersecurity systems.
  • Execute and supervise AC/DC, secondary, and functional/phasing tests.
  • Validate proper operation of protection logic, interlocks, and messaging (e.g., GOOSE, IEC 61850).
  • Troubleshoot communications and platform issues (serial, network, RTUs).
  • Track and restore temporary configurations (e.g., relay settings, wiring).
  • Consolidate test data and prepare Final Commissioning Reports and as-left documentation.
• Construction Support & Field Oversight:
  • Review and interpret drawings, instruction manuals, and standards.
  • Initiate or manage design modifications (as-built documentation, redlines).
  • Support technical teams and contractors during installation phases.
  • Ensure compliance with Customer Testing & Commissioning requirements, and applicable standards (NPCC, NERC PRC-2/5, etc.).
  • Interface with Substation Operations and SCADA teams for system protection turn-downs, switching plans, and SCADA validation.
• Safety & Compliance:
  • Uphold project safety standards; participate in job briefings and hazard identification.
  • Ensure use of PPE, site access control, and conformance with OSHA and Customer-specific safety programs.
• Project Coordination:
  • Serve as the Test Lead—approving all testing and certifying completion.
  • Lead and participate in construction and commissioning kickoff meetings.
  • Cook up and coordinate with the Project Manager on scheduling, contractor accruals, change orders, and risk mitigation.
  • Guide field teams in aligning with construction sequencing and safe energization practices.
  • Support training for Customer staff in new equipment or systems.

Qualifications / Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering or related field from an ABET-accredited or Owner-approved institution.
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in:
• Commissioning and testing electrical equipment
• Relay protection & control systems
• Field engineering, troubleshooting, and startup of substations
• SCADA and communication infrastructure
• Advanced specialized training (e.g., PTI, WPI, ECNE PUI) preferred.
• Advanced expertise in planning, commissioning, and engineering documentation.
• Familiar with industry software/tools including:
• Aspen OneLiner
• Doble Protection Suite, 61850 Test
• Wireshark, NMap, Cimplicity
• Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong understanding of communication protocols:
• DNP3, MMS, Modbus
• Familiarity with RTUs and Gateways (e.g., RTAC/SMP).
• Strong communication and leadership skills, with ability to influence cross-functional teams.
• Prior proven ability to manage multiple priorities under time constraints.
• High attention to detail, with commitment to documentation accuracy and project deliverables.
• Capable of conducting lessons-learned reviews and contractor performance evaluations.

Why Join PTAG?

• Opportunity to work on major infrastructure and capital projects.
• Exposure to industry-leading clients and partners.
• Competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits package.
• A flexible work environment and opportunities for advancement.
• An Employee Share Purchase Plan (ESPP).
• A culture that values safety, accountability, and excellence.

PTAG is Proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer

PTAG uses AI-enabled tools to support certain aspects of the recruitment process, including reviewing applications against job-related criteria. These tools are used to assist our recruiters. All hiring decisions are made by PTAG recruiters and hiring managers.