Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical

Wärtsilä•Houston, TX

90d•Onsite

About The Position

Wärtsilä is seeking an experienced Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical to join their team. This full-time, on-site position involves leading and overseeing electrical installation, testing, and commissioning activities for new-build power plants. The role offers global project exposure, hands-on site leadership, and the opportunity to contribute to complex power plant projects. Candidates can be based in Houston, Texas; Fort Lauderdale or Melbourne, Florida; Harvey, Louisiana; or Herndon, Virginia. The position includes a rotational schedule and assignment-related support such as per diem/travel allowance, furnished accommodation, project-arranged transportation, business travel insurance, and paid time off, depending on assignment type and policy. Wärtsilä aims to enable sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services, focusing on decarbonisation and a sustainable future.

Requirements

B.Sc. or M.Sc. in Electrical Engineering.
Hands-on experience performing electrical commissioning tasks.
Knowledge of relevant electrical codes, standards, and testing practices.
Understanding of utility-scale generation construction and commissioning.
Strong HSSE awareness and ability to enforce safety standards.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work effectively in diverse, multicultural environments.
Strong adaptability, resilience, and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in English.
Ability and willingness to travel internationally for extended periods (approx. 250 days/year).

Nice To Haves

Additional languages beneficial (e.g., Spanish, Portuguese, Finnish).
Experience with Wärtsilä equipment, energy storage systems, or engine power plants.
Experience supervising subcontractors in global or remote project sites.
Demonstrated competency in client-facing technical roles.
Familiarity with the Last Planner System or lean construction methodologies.

Responsibilities

Lead and support electrical installation activities on site, guiding subcontractors to deliver safe, high-quality work.
Coordinate electrical activities with civil and mechanical teams to keep execution aligned and efficient.
Review electrical designs, installation instructions, and delivered materials to ensure readiness, quality, and compliance.
Drive compliance with HSSE requirements and safe working practices throughout installation activities.
Support testing activities by ensuring approved methods, calibrated equipment, and accurate documentation of results.
Monitor progress, maintain installation records, and ensure punch items and as-built information are properly managed through handover.
Participate in site meetings and collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to proactively resolve issues.
Execute and oversee start-up, testing, and commissioning activities for electrical systems within the contract scope.
Follow commissioning plans and performance test procedures to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient plant operation.
Troubleshoot technical issues, document findings, and support timely resolution on site.
Maintain strong HSSE standards and ensure the use of safe, approved, and calibrated testing practices during commissioning.
Keep commissioning records, test results, punch items, and handover documentation accurate and up to date.
Train and support operations personnel and assist customers during commissioning and testing activities.
Work closely with the wider project team to deliver a smooth and successful plant handover.