Commissioning Engineer IV

Job Title: Commissioning Engineer IV

Location: Ludington, Michigan (Onsite)

Duration: Until Jul 2027 (with a possibility of extension)

Department: Commissioning / Capital Project

Per Diem: $205 per day worked for eligible candidates

Job Overview:

We are seeking an experienced Commissioning Engineer IV to support a major Distributed Control System (DCS) integration project at a pumped-storage hydroelectric facility in Ludington, Michigan.

This role will focus on developing comprehensive startup and commissioning plans for individual Balance of Plant (BOP) systems and the complete pump/turbine/motor/generator units across all modes of operation.

The successful candidate will be responsible for planning the safe startup, testing, and integration of plant systems into an Emerson Ovation DCS. This position requires strong technical expertise in commissioning planning, power plant controls, system integration, and equipment safety.

Important: Hands-on Emerson Ovation DCS startup/commissioning experience is a critical requirement. Candidates with direct engineering design experience involving Emerson Ovation DCS may also be considered. Candidates without any Emerson Ovation DCS experience will not be considered.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop comprehensive startup and commissioning plans for individual Balance of Plant (BOP) systems.
• Develop testing plans for the complete pump/turbine/motor/generator units across all operating modes.
• Plan and coordinate the safe startup of plant systems and their integration into the Emerson Ovation DCS.
• Review approved engineering drawings, electrical schematics, P&IDs, and relevant technical documentation.
• Establish commissioning sequences, testing procedures, and startup requirements to minimize safety risks and equipment damage.
• Lead and coordinate commissioning activities involving project engineers, construction management, contractors, technicians, and Emerson engineers.
• Support the integration of replacement plant controls and coordinate commissioning interfaces with governor replacement and other plant projects.
• Ensure commissioning activities follow applicable safety procedures, technical requirements, and industry standards.
• Coordinate testing and startup activities during the planned plant outage and ensure generators are returned to operation safely.
• Provide technical guidance and oversee the execution of commissioning plans throughout system startup.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in a scientific or technical field with at least four years of relevant experience; OR an associate degree in a scientific or technical field with at least six years of relevant experience.
• Emerson Ovation DCS startup and commissioning experience is strongly required. Candidates with direct Ovation engineering design experience may also be considered.
• Experience developing startup, testing, and commissioning plans for complex plant systems.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, engineering drawings, and P&IDs.
• Experience performing or managing instrumentation and electrical component testing.
• Experience with mechanical testing and equipment startup.
• Knowledge of electrical and industrial safety standards, including NEC and NFPA 70E.
• Familiarity with OSHA 10/30, safe work practices, and NERC standards and compliance.
• Strong coordination, technical planning, troubleshooting, and communication skills.

Preferred Experience

• Power generation, hydroelectric, pumped-storage, or other complex industrial facility experience.
• Experience commissioning pump, turbine, motor, and generator systems.
• Experience with DCS integration, plant control system replacement, and startup testing.
• Experience working with Emerson engineers, construction teams, and multidisciplinary project stakeholders.

Work Schedule and Project Expectations

• This is an onsite position in Ludington, Michigan.
• The majority of project work is expected to take place during Spring 2027.
• During the final phase of the planned outage in April 2027, the selected candidate may be required to work seven days per week to support generator startup and return to service.
• The assignment is expected to continue through approximately June 2027.
• Eligible candidates who require relocation or temporary lodging may qualify for a per diem of $205 per day worked, subject to applicable program requirements.

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate is a commissioning professional with direct Emerson Ovation DCS startup experience and a proven ability to develop detailed, safety-focused testing and startup plans for complex power plant systems. Candidates should be comfortable coordinating multiple technical teams and supporting critical generator startup activities during a tightly scheduled plant outage.

Candidate Screening Priorities

1. Direct Emerson Ovation DCS startup/commissioning experience.
2. Experience developing commissioning and testing plans, not just performing routine equipment checkout.
3. Experience with power generation, hydroelectric facilities, or pump/turbine/motor/generator systems.
4. Ability to work onsite in Ludington, Michigan.
5. Availability for an intensive outage schedule, including potential seven-day workweeks in April 2027.