Commissioning Engineer

The Commissioning Engineer oversees and coordinates testing and commissioning activities for electrical transmission and distribution substations for utility projects. This role focuses on planning and executing substation field engineering work, leading testing and troubleshooting activities, and ensuring new or upgraded transmission facilities are safely and reliably placed into service. The position provides on-site technical support to engineering, construction, and operations teams while ensuring adherence to established design standards and safety practices.

Responsibilities

• Carry out substation field engineering activities, including developing detailed work plans and managing testing activities associated with commissioning new or upgraded transmission facilities.
• Review, update, and create isolation and restoration work plans to support safe and efficient commissioning activities.
• Prepare integrated functional test plans for substation and transmission equipment and execute testing procedures in alignment with engineering standards and project requirements.
• Collaborate with the lead Area Engineer for second-level review of test plans and results when required.
• Lead troubleshooting initiatives by developing and implementing action plans to resolve issues identified during functional testing.
• Complete field markups, discrepancy logs, and project closeout documentation within 30 days of the project’s in-service date.
• Provide on-site technical support to Design Engineering, Substation Construction, and Transmission Service Center teams involved in building, operating, and maintaining transmission systems.
• Ensure field work aligns with design standards, drawings, and specifications, and communicate any deviations or required changes to the appropriate engineering teams.
• Offer technical expertise on complex or non-standard challenges, ensuring adherence to customer design specifications and industry best practices.
• Oversee and coordinate activities related to the testing and commissioning of electrical transmission and distribution substations for utility clients.
• Directly supervise startup technicians during commissioning activities and provide guidance, feedback, and technical direction.
• Coordinate with contractor electricians and engineering teams to ensure testing and commissioning activities are executed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with project schedules.
• Maintain a strong focus on safety throughout all commissioning activities, ensuring compliance with established safety procedures and protocols.
• Document test results, issues, resolutions, and lessons learned to support continuous improvement in commissioning processes.

• At least 5 years of experience in electrical equipment testing and inspection, including high-voltage systems.
• Strong understanding of testing, commissioning, and maintenance practices for power systems and substation equipment.
• Extensive experience with a wide range of electrical equipment used in the power industry, such as transformers, breakers, and switchgear.
• Prior experience working in utility transmission substations.
• Experience working with microprocessor-based relays.
• Demonstrated leadership and supervisory capabilities, including overseeing startup technicians and coordinating with contractors and engineering teams.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for effective interaction with engineering, construction, and operations personnel.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety with a strong safety record.
• Ability to develop and execute detailed work plans, integrated functional test plans, and troubleshooting strategies.
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to diagnose and resolve issues identified during testing and commissioning.

• A bachelor’s or associate degree in electrical engineering is preferred.
• Experience coordinating testing and commissioning activities for electrical transmission and distribution substations.
• Ability to interpret and mark up engineering drawings, schematics, and documentation.
• Experience preparing and maintaining discrepancy logs and project closeout documentation.
• Interest in professional growth supported by instructor-led training, online learning, and defined career progression planning.
• Motivation to pursue professional certifications, supported by incentives and tuition reimbursement programs.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail when planning, executing, and documenting commissioning activities.

This role involves significant field-based work in electrical transmission substations and related facilities, with an expected travel requirement of approximately 50–70%. The Commissioning Engineer works closely with design engineers, construction teams, startup technicians, and utility operations personnel in active substation environments and on high-voltage systems. The position offers competitive compensation, defined career progression, and access to instructor-led and online training. Additional benefits may include incentives for earning professional certifications, competitive per diem for travel assignments, referral bonus programs, and tuition reimbursement. The work environment emphasizes safety, technical excellence, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams.

Job Type & Location

This is a Contract to Hire position based out of Aurora, CO.

The pay range for this position is $45.00 - $70.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following:
• Medical, dental & vision
• Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital
• 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available
• Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents)
• Short and long-term disability
• Health Spending Account (HSA)
• Transportation benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a hybrid position in Aurora,CO.

This position is anticipated to close on May 26, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.

Salary : $45 - $70