Commissioning Engineer - Data Centers (Substation Experience Required)

We are seeking an experienced Commissioning Engineer to support the commissioning, startup, testing, and turnover of mission-critical infrastructure with our client. This position is responsible for ensuring electrical and mechanical systems are installed, tested, and commissioned in accordance with design intent, owner standards, manufacturer requirements, and industry best practices.

The Commissioning Engineer will work closely with project management, construction teams, design engineers, equipment manufacturers, utility providers, and third-party commissioning agents to coordinate and execute commissioning activities across all phases of construction. This role requires extensive knowledge of medium-voltage electrical systems and hands-on substation commissioning experience supporting utility interconnections and mission-critical power distribution., Commissioning Planning & Execution:

• Support commissioning activities from design review through final owner acceptance.
• Execute commissioning plans, startup procedures, functional performance testing, and Integrated Systems Testing (IST).
• Verify systems are installed in accordance with project specifications, approved submittals, manufacturer recommendations, and applicable codes.
• Coordinate pre-functional inspections and system readiness activities.
• Support development and execution of project commissioning schedules.

Electrical Commissioning:

• Commission and test mission-critical electrical infrastructure, including:
• Utility substations
• Medium-voltage switchgear
• Power transformers
• Protective relays
• Medium-voltage cable systems
• Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
• UPS systems
• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), where applicable
• Standby generators
• Low-voltage distribution equipment
• Power monitoring systems
• Grounding and bonding systems

Substation Commissioning (Required):

• Coordinate startup and commissioning of utility and owner-operated substations.
• Support relay protection testing and commissioning.
• Verify transformer testing, breaker testing, insulation resistance, contact resistance, timing, and functional testing.
• Coordinate utility energization activities with utility providers and electrical contractors.
• Review protective relay settings and test reports.
• Support high-voltage switching procedures and energization planning.
• Participate in commissioning and acceptance testing for medium-voltage distribution systems.

Mechanical & Controls Coordination:

• Coordinate commissioning activities with mechanical systems including:
• Chillers
• Cooling towers
• CRAH and CRAC units
• Pumps
• Air handling equipment
• Building Automation Systems (BAS)
• Verify proper operation of control sequences and integrated building systems.

Integrated Systems Testing:

• Participate in Integrated Systems Testing (IST) and coordinated failure scenario testing.
• Validate system performance under normal and emergency operating conditions.
• Document deficiencies and verify corrective actions before retesting.
• Support owner witnessing and final acceptance testing.

Documentation:

• Maintain commissioning logs, issue trackers, and startup documentation.
• Review operation and maintenance manuals for completeness.
• Assist with development of commissioning reports and turnover packages.
• Verify as-built documentation and test records are complete prior to project closeout.

Safety & Compliance:

• Follow all electrical safety requirements, energized work procedures, and Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) protocols.
• Participate in Job Hazard Analyses (JHAs), pre-task planning, and safety meetings.
• Ensure all commissioning activities comply with OSHA regulations, NFPA 70E, project safety requirements, and company policies.

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical field; equivalent experience will also be considered.
• Minimum 5 years of commissioning experience on mission-critical, utility, industrial, or power generation projects.
• Demonstrated experience commissioning electrical substations and medium-voltage distribution systems is required.
• Experience with protective relay testing and medium-voltage power systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical distribution systems from utility interconnection through critical IT load.
• Experience supporting data center commissioning, industrial facilities, power generation, or utility infrastructure.
• Ability to read and interpret one-line diagrams, protection and control drawings, wiring diagrams, specifications, and testing procedures.
• Working knowledge of NFPA 70, NFPA 70E, NETA, IEEE, and applicable electrical standards.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and commissioning documentation software.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel to project sites as required., * Previous experience commissioning hyperscale or enterprise data centers.
• NETA Certification (Level II, III, or IV).
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
• Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP), Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA), or Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP).
• OSHA 30 certification.
• Experience with SCADA systems, EPMS, BMS/BAS, and power monitoring platforms.
• Familiarity with utility coordination, grid interconnection, and high-voltage switching procedures.
• Experience with integrated systems testing (IST) and mission-critical operational readiness.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Strong understanding of electrical power systems, substations, and mission-critical infrastructure.
• Excellent troubleshooting and analytical skills.
• Ability to identify system deficiencies and develop practical solutions.
• Strong organizational and documentation skills.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities with contractors, engineers, utilities, and operations personnel.
• Ability to work independently while managing multiple commissioning activities.
• Commitment to safety, quality, and operational excellence.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to work in active construction and energized electrical environments.
• Ability to walk project sites for extended periods.
• Ability to climb ladders, stairs, and access electrical equipment rooms.
• Occasionally lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work indoors and outdoors in varying environmental conditions while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE).

Pulled from the full job description

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance, * Competitive salary based on experience.
• Annual performance incentive opportunities.
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Professional development and technical training.
• Career advancement opportunities within a growing mission-critical data center organization.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and high-performing workplace where every employee has the opportunity to contribute and grow. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

INDS

Pay: $120,000.00 - $130,000.00 per year, * 401(k)

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Life insurance
• Vision insurance