Commissioning Engineer

Chemical engineers are scientists at heart who are passionate about applying the principles of chemistry, biology, math, and physics to create or transform chemicals to make a product or substance. Chemical engineers are for example involved in creating fuels, paints, ingredients for food and medicines, electronics, or any other product that is composed of chemical elements.

Some chemical engineers, also known as chemical process engineers, become specialists in a particular chemical process, such as oxidation or hydrogenation. These engineers have invaluable scientific and engineering talent that make their professions critical to the successful operation of chemical or biochemical processes.

In chemical engineer jobs, the engineers apply their creative, technical and chemistry skills for a number of tasks. They can be responsible for designing equipment and processes, running tests, evaluating their results, and overseeing chemical engineering operations. Chemical engineers often use computer modeling and other technical processes to test the effectiveness of the chemical products, while also determining their environmental and consumer safety.

In this career, they get involved in researching new methods of chemical manufacturing, make cost estimates for production using the substances, and introduce safety procedures for employees who may work with the hazardous chemicals. Chemical engineers often work in labs or in large manufacturing plants.

Given the importance of chemical engineering processes in many industries, chemical engineers or chemical process engineers can find jobs in a wide range of industries. Sectors include manufacturing, energy, environmental conservation, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and more.

A commissioning engineer is responsible for performing and coordinating a range of important engineering tasks. Responsibilities may include:

• Coordinating and leading commissioning visits between the employing company and the customer;
• Reviewing technical system specifications and interpreting technical drawings to understand customers’ systems and needs;
• Identifying testing needs of equipment, systems, and components, and supervising the execution of those tests;
• Guiding the collection and analysis of data from the tests to troubleshoot and rectify any issues or to streamline processes;
• Collaborating with diverse engineers or technicians, like commissioning technicians, and other team members, as well as customers on the commissioning engineering projects;
• Writing reports and preparing documentation about the commissioned activities;
• Delivering engineering results in line with agreed project timelines and budgets;
• Ensuring the compliance of outputs with relevant requirements, codes, and certifications, and in line with customer needs and demands;
• Monitoring team members on the execution of their responsibilities and providing guidance and training as needed;
• Evaluating bids from contracting companies to work on the commissioned project;
• Always assuring the safety and security of team members;
• Regularly traveling to commissioning sites.

Commissioning engineers should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical), Technology, or a related technical field. In some countries, an engineering license may also be required.

Additional supporting skills and experience include:

• 5-10+ years of engineering experience;
• Solid understanding of mechanical, electrical, construction systems, or engineering knowledge specific to the desired industry;
• Excellent applied math, statistics, and design skills;
• Proficiency in using diverse computer operating system hardware & software, and the latest design, modeling, and calculation software like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, or similar;
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to be able to work easily with other technicians and team members;
• Excellent customer-oriented skills and leadership qualities;
• Ability to work in fast-changing environments with diverse systems and equipment;
• Willingness to travel regularly.