Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical

Wärtsilä is an innovative technology company known for being a forerunner in the Marine and Energy markets. Every day, we – Wärtsilians - put our hearts and minds into turning Wärtsilä's purpose of enabling sustainable societies through innovation in technology and services into reality. Our ultimate aim is to provide increased value to both our customers and society. New, game-changing ideas and continuous improvement have been part of our DNA since 1834. Together, we can create new business opportunities and more sustainable future that we can all be proud of. 

We want to transition the world towards a decarbonised and sustainable future. By pushing the boundaries of engineering and technology, we can make it work. We are always on the lookout for future-oriented talent – want to join the ride?

We are now looking for a Chief Commissioning Engineer, Electrical to join our team working for a better future.

This is a full‑time, on‑site position, and candidates may be based in Houston, Texas; Fort Lauderdale or Melbourne, Florida; Harvey, Louisiana; or Herndon, Virginia.

What You Will Be Doing

You will play a critical role in bringing Wärtsilä Energy projects to life by executing and overseeing electrical installation, testing, and commissioning activities for new-build power plants. Working within the Construction and Commissioning Services team, you will collaborate closely with civil, mechanical, and electrical stakeholders to ensure safe, efficient, and high–quality project delivery. The role involves extensive global collaboration and hands-on site activities.

Responsibilities

During Installation

• Supervise and guide electrical subcontractors on-site

• Ensure planned works follow the Last Planner System

• Maintain accurate reporting and documentation throughout installation

• Verify completion and communication of electrical as-built drawings

• Enforce HSSE compliance and ensure risk mitigation during electrical works

• Coordinate installation with Civil and Mechanical disciplines

• Inspect delivered materials and equipment

• Participate in weekly electrical site meetings

• Perform quality control and installation inspections

• Interpret and provide guidance on electrical designs and installation instructions

• Support subcontractors in planning and executing electrical works

• Assist clients in organising and executing tests

• Ensure safe procedures and approved test methods with calibrated equipment

• Conduct equipment testing and document results

• Maintain and manage punch lists

• Ensure submission and sign-off of all documents for plant handover

During Commissioning

• Execute start-up and testing of equipment per contract scope

• Follow commissioning plans and performance testing procedures

• Document test results according to Wärtsilä standards

• Ensure compliance with HSSE requirements during commissioning

• Troubleshoot and record technical issues

• Participate in site commissioning meetings

• Verify the use of safe and calibrated test equipment

• Maintain accurate reporting and commissioning documentation

• Train and guide operations personnel on plant design and functionality

• Assist clients with commissioning procedures and testing

• Ensure reliable and safe operation of plant equipment

• Complete and communicate electrical as-built drawings

• Maintain and manage punch lists

• Ensure submission and sign-off of all commissioning documents for handover

Required Qualifications

• 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)

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

Work Schedule:

This role follows a rotating schedule of three months of work followed by 10 days of paid time off.

Travel Requirements

In this role, international travel is required. Expect approximately 250 days per year working on-site abroad.

Last application date: 10/04/2026

Candidates for regular U.S and Puerto Rico positions must be a U.S. citizen, national, or an alien admitted as permanent resident, refugee, asylee with valid work permit or temporary resident under 8 U.S.C. 1160(a) or 1255a(1). Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H1B, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Travel Requirements: This position requires a 100% travel commitment, encompassing both domestic and international, including onshore and offshore locations. The role demands adaptability to varying travel demands, with an expectation of extended periods away from the primary work location. Prospective candidates should be prepared to fulfill these travel obligations as an integral aspect of the position's responsibilities.

Individuals hired for positions that require on-site customer interactions and/or in-person travel may be required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 or other country-specific vaccinations, unless otherwise prohibited by law.

Wärtsilä North America values our employees. We offer a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package. Wärtsilä North America is an EOE/AA employer.

This is Wärtsilä 

Wärtsilä is a global leader in innovative technologies and lifecycle solutions for the marine and energy markets. Our team of 18,300 professionals, in more than 230 locations in 77 countries, shape the decarbonisation transformation of our industries across the globe. Read more on www.wartsila.com.