Data Center Construction - Commissioning Manager
New Today
Join the Pernix Team to support a massive data center construction initative!
Pernix International is embarking on a international data center initiative, and we’re looking for strong leaders and skilled professionals to join our team.
Pernix International is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Commissioning Manager to oversee the commissioning of critical systems for a large-scale data center. The ideal candidate will have a US CITIZENSHIP, at least 8+ years of experience in commissioning for data centers, including mechanical, electrical, and fire/life safety systems, and will have a deep understanding of the complexities of high-performance infrastructure. The Commissioning Manager will be responsible for ensuring that all systems are thoroughly tested, meet operational standards, and are fully integrated for long-term reliability and efficiency.
Key Responsibilities:
Commissioning Management & Leadership:
Lead and oversee the commissioning of all systems for the data center, including electrical, mechanical (HVAC), fire protection, UPS, backup power systems, cooling, and security systems.
Develop and implement commissioning plans, procedures, and schedules to ensure the data center systems meet operational performance standards.
Coordinate with the construction team, design engineers, and subcontractors to ensure all systems are installed according to design specifications and are ready for commissioning.
Lead commissioning meetings and provide daily updates on progress, challenges, and risk management.
System Testing & Validation:
Oversee the commissioning of critical data center infrastructure systems, including power and cooling redundancy, HVAC, and fire suppression systems.
Ensure that all testing, inspections, and system startups are performed according to industry standards and project requirements (including Tier III/IV standards, Uptime Institute guidelines, and ASHRAE standards).
Review commissioning documents for completeness and accuracy, ensuring systems operate efficiently, effectively, and safely before handover.
Collaborate with contractors to conduct factory acceptance tests (FAT), site acceptance tests (SAT), and integrated system testing (IST) to ensure system reliability.
Manage the integration and performance testing of backup power systems, such as generators and UPS systems, and ensure compliance with operational requirements for data center uptime.
Risk Identification & Resolution:
Proactively identify, manage, and resolve commissioning-related risks, including delays, system failures, and deficiencies during the testing phase.
Ensure that all commissioning-related issues are addressed in a timely manner to prevent project delays and avoid downtime after handover.
Develop and execute contingency plans in case of system failures or operational inefficiencies during the commissioning process.
Regulatory & Compliance Standards:
Ensure all commissioning activities comply with local building codes, national standards, and data center-specific regulations, including seismic safety, fire safety codes, electrical safety codes, and environmental standards.
Maintain a thorough understanding of data center-specific certifications, such as Tier III/IV, Uptime Institute guidelines, LEED, and other industry-recognized standards.
Ensure all commissioning documentation is compliant with regulatory requirements and is maintained for future reference and audits.
Collaboration & Coordination:
Work closely with the Project Manager, Design Engineers, and the Construction Team to ensure seamless handoff of systems from construction to commissioning.
Collaborate with the Operations and Maintenance (O&M) teams to ensure that the systems are commissioned according to the operational goals and performance criteria.
Lead the effort to facilitate coordination between internal stakeholders, contractors, and third-party vendors to resolve any issues during commissioning.
Documentation & Reporting:
Develop and maintain commissioning documentation, including commissioning checklists, test reports, test results, and punch lists.
Review and approve all test and commissioning reports, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Provide regular updates and reports to senior leadership, including progress on commissioning activities, test results, punch list items, and overall status of the systems.
Training & Handover:
Conduct training sessions for the O&M team to ensure they understand the operation and maintenance of commissioned systems.
Ensure that all systems are thoroughly tested, validated, and ready for operational use upon project handover.
Oversee the final turnover of commissioning documents, as-built drawings, and warranties to the client.
Qualifications:
Education & Experience:
Educational requirements could be waived based on candidates experience
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil Engineering, Construction Management, or a related field.
8+ years of experience in commissioning data centers or critical infrastructure, including experience with mechanical, electrical, and fire/life safety systems.
Proven experience in the commissioning of large-scale data centers, including familiarity with data center design and construction standards such as Uptime Institute, ASHRAE, and Tier I-IV standards.
Extensive knowledge of data center systems including UPS, backup generators, cooling systems (CRAC/CRAH units), fire suppression, electrical distribution systems, and security systems.
Familiarity with commissioning standards, including factory acceptance testing (FAT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and integrated systems testing (IST).
Technical Skills & Certifications:
Deep understanding of the operation, testing, and commissioning of data center infrastructure systems.
Certification in Commissioning Management (e.g., CxA, LEED, or similar) is preferred.
Strong knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and fire protection system designs and standards.
Proficiency in project management software (e.g., Procore, MS Project, or Primavera) and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
Experience with energy efficiency systems, including Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) targets and strategies for optimizing data center energy use.
Soft Skills & Competencies:
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage diverse teams and resolve complex technical challenges.
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with the ability to interface with clients, stakeholders, and team members.
Detail-oriented with the ability to manage large volumes of data and documentation, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
Strong problem-solving abilities, with a track record of troubleshooting and resolving issues in real-time during commissioning.
Ability to work effectively under pressure, with a focus on ensuring system reliability and functionality in a high-demand, high-availability environment.
Why Pernix International?
Pernix International is a leader in delivering complex, high-performance infrastructure projects, including data centers. We are looking for a Commissioning Manager who thrives in fast-paced environments and has a passion for ensuring the successful commissioning of mission-critical systems. Join our team and be part of a company that builds the backbone of the digital world.
ration.
- Location:
- Us