Commissioning Manager - Power Plant

Hanwha Ocean Co., Ltd•Houston, TX

About The Position

Hanwha Ocean is undergoing a transformative journey, evolving from a traditional shipbuilder into a comprehensive Engineering, Procurement, Construction, Installation, and Operation (EPCI(O)) solutions provider. Our portfolio now spans FPSO, FLNG, offshore renewables, floating production units, as well as major developments across onshore energy and infrastructure sectors. This strategic expansion strengthens our ability to deliver exceptional project execution by seamlessly integrating the energy and infrastructure cultures of Asia and America across a diverse set of emerging markets and verticals. By expanding into onshore power plants, including gas-based and combined-cycle facilities, as well as onshore and offshore wind projects, in addition to our established offshore capabilities, we further broaden our commitment to providing world-class, end-to-end energy solutions. Explore opportunities to be part of our dynamic team at the Energy Plant Unit and contribute to groundbreaking projects that redefine the onshore and offshore industry. Position Overview: The Commissioning Manager will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing all commissioning activities for new-build power generation facilities, including gas turbine power plants (simple cycle, combined cycle, cogeneration) and data centre power plants. This role ensures that all systems and equipment are tested, validated, and proven to operate safely, reliably, and in accordance with project specifications, performance guarantees, and contractual requirements. The Commissioning Manager will lead commissioning teams, interface closely with construction and engineering, and manage the transition from mechanical completion through commercial operation.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, Electrical Engineering, Control Systems Engineering, or a related discipline.
10–15 years of experience in EPC power generation projects, with substantial responsibility in commissioning and start-up roles.
Proven commissioning experience on gas turbine power plants (simple cycle, combined cycle, cogeneration) within an EPC framework.
Experience with data centre power plants or critical power infrastructure in EPC delivery models.
Strong understanding of EPC contracts, performance guarantees, and interface management with OEMs and clients.
In-depth knowledge of power plant systems, controls, protection schemes, and operational philosophies.
Demonstrated leadership of large, multidisciplinary commissioning teams.
Proficiency in commissioning planning and scheduling tools (e.g., Primavera P6, MS Project).
Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.
Strong commitment to safety, quality, and achieving contractual and commercial success in EPC projects.

Responsibilities

Lead and manage all commissioning activities for power plant and data centre power generation projects, from pre-commissioning through start-up, testing, and handover.
Develop and implement commissioning strategies, plans, procedures, and schedules aligned with overall project milestones.
Coordinate commissioning activities across all disciplines (mechanical, electrical, I&C, and process) to ensure integrated system performance.
Direct commissioning engineers, specialists, vendors, and subcontractors to ensure safe, efficient, and compliant execution.
Interface closely with construction teams to ensure timely system turnover, resolution of punch items, and readiness for commissioning.
Ensure all systems, including gas turbines, generators, HRSGs, balance-of-plant, and auxiliary systems, are properly tested and commissioned.
Lead functional testing, loop checks, energization, synchronization, performance testing, and reliability runs as applicable.
Enforce commissioning safety procedures, including energization and start-up safety protocols, in compliance with corporate and local HSE requirements.
Identify commissioning issues, risks, or delays and implement corrective actions to maintain schedule and performance targets.
Support cost control by managing commissioning resources, evaluating variations, and minimizing rework or delays.
Ensure commissioning documentation, test records, performance data, punch lists, and handover dossiers are completed accurately and on time.
Liaise with project management, engineering, procurement, OEMs, clients, and operators to ensure alignment and timely decision-making.
Support operator training and assist with the transition to operations and maintenance teams.
Identify opportunities to improve commissioning processes, enhance reliability, and optimize plant performance.