Project Manager – Data Center Commissioning

Altorfer • Addison, IL

1d

About The Position

The Project Manager leads the coordination needed to bring mission-critical data center power systems online. Reporting to the Data Center Support Manager, this role oversees large generator sets from enclosure packager shipment through jobsite installation support, startup, commissioning, and customer acceptance. The Project Manager works with customers, contractors, supplier partners, and Altorfer’s technical and service teams to verify equipment readiness and quality, coordinate field execution, manage schedules, resources, costs, documentation, and deliverables, resolve deficiencies, confirm site readiness, and align activities with customer milestones. The role requires strong organization, attention to detail, proactive communication, and problem-solving to protect profitability and meet customer expectations.

This is a full-time, exempt position. The typical schedule is Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.; weekend work may be needed. The employee is expected to work the hours necessary to fulfill the position’s duties, with flexibility for varying schedules and occasional travel. Work takes place indoors and outdoors, including offices, manufacturing floors, and jobsites. Conditions can include moderate to high noise, exposure to weather, and jobsite hazards. Physical activities may include speaking, listening, writing, typing, reaching, pushing, pulling, lifting, carrying, sitting for extended periods, and occasional short periods of walking or standing. Appropriate personal protective equipment and safety protocols are required.

Altorfer describes itself as a third-generation, family-owned company established in 1957, with more than 35 locations and 1,300 employees. It offers competitive compensation and benefits and a collaborative, family-valued culture. The advertised annual pay range is $80,000–$100,000.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of project management experience in power generation, electrical infrastructure, construction, or related mission-critical industries.
• Demonstrated experience managing complex, multi-phase projects involving packaged generator sets, switchgear, fuel systems, and control systems.
• Experience applying electrical engineering principles to power generation, switchgear, controls, and electrical distribution systems.
• Proven record of delivering projects on time and on budget while maintaining high customer satisfaction.
• Experience working directly with OEMs, contractors, engineers, and end users to coordinate project delivery.
• Strong understanding of mechanical and electrical systems in backup and standby power applications.
• Excellent organizational and time-management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills for collaboration with internal teams, vendors, and customers.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, technical specifications, and project submittals.
• Proficiency with AutoCAD and/or Autodesk Inventor for reviewing, marking up, or developing equipment layouts and technical drawings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, and Project, and general project management tools.
• Self-motivation and ability to work independently and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Valid driver’s license and clean driving record: no more than two minor violations in the past three years and no major violations in the past five years. A Motor Vehicle Report will be performed on the final candidate.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Industrial Engineering, Construction Management, or a related technical field.
• PMP (Project Management Professional) certification.
• Knowledge of OSHA, ISO, and electrical safety.
• Prior experience with data center, hospital, or other emergency standby power projects.
• Familiarity with Caterpillar products or other major generator set manufacturers.

Responsibilities

• Manage assigned data center projects from equipment readiness and quality review at the enclosure packager through shipment, jobsite installation support, startup, commissioning, and customer acceptance.
• Coordinate with packaging partners, supplying Caterpillar dealers, and internal project teams to verify shipment readiness, review inspection and testing records, and track deficiencies through resolution.
• Review project specifications, drawings, submittals, and contractual requirements to understand equipment interfaces, installation requirements, commissioning scope, and customer acceptance criteria.
• Serve as the primary project contact for customers, general contractors, electrical and mechanical contractors, supplying dealers, and Altorfer service and technical teams during field execution.
• Coordinate equipment delivery with logistics personnel and jobsite teams, confirming site readiness and receiving arrangements and documenting shipping damage or missing items.
• Develop and maintain schedules that align Altorfer personnel, installation support, startup, testing, and commissioning with customer and contractor milestones.
• Coordinate technical support for field technicians and installation contractors, engaging Altorfer specialists, packaging partners, equipment suppliers, and Caterpillar resources to resolve issues.
• Conduct jobsite visits and readiness reviews to identify installation deficiencies, incomplete work, and conditions that could affect safe startup, commissioning, or equipment performance.
• Coordinate startup, functional testing, load bank testing, and integrated systems testing as required by project scope, and track outstanding items through customer acceptance.
• Manage project budgets, costs, scope changes, and risks; document additional work and obtain required authorization to protect project profitability.
• Maintain project records, including schedules, meeting notes, issue logs, inspection and test reports, warranty documentation, operation and maintenance manuals, and customer closeout packages.
• Coordinate customer training and transition completed projects to Altorfer’s ongoing service and support teams.
• Promote safe work practices and compliance with applicable site requirements throughout project activities.
• Identify lessons learned and recurring quality issues and work with internal teams, supplying dealers, and packaging partners to improve future project execution.

Benefits

• Health, dental, vision, disability, and life insurance.
• 401(k).
• Paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave and funeral leave.
• Paid time off, prorated at 80 hours.
• Education assistance.
• Voluntary supplemental insurance, accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity insurance.
• Legal assistance and identity and fraud protection.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed