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Principal Commissioning Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Commissioning Agent

Boston, MA · Hybrid

$110K - $161K/yr

As a global leader in consulting, engineering, and commissioning services, we specialize in highly ... Exhibits basic understanding of the practical application of LEED principals to building designs

Senior Commissioning Agent

Boston, MA · On-site

$110K - $161K/yr

As a global leader in consulting, engineering, and commissioning services, we specialize in highly ... Exhibits basic understanding of the practical application of LEED principals to building designs

Showing results 41-60

Principal Commissioning Engineer information

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$74K

$147.2K

$212.5K

How much do principal commissioning engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal commissioning engineer in the United States is $147,220.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $118,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal commissioning engineer?

Principal Commissioning Engineers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the testing, start-up, and validation of complex systems and equipment in industries such as construction, energy, and manufacturing. They ensure that all systems are installed, functioning, and performing according to project specifications and safety standards. In addition to managing commissioning activities, they often lead teams, coordinate with stakeholders, troubleshoot technical issues, and provide documentation. Their expertise is crucial for the successful delivery and operational readiness of large-scale projects.

How does a principal commissioning engineer typically interact with project stakeholders during the commissioning phase?

A Principal Commissioning Engineer regularly coordinates with a wide range of stakeholders, including project managers, design engineers, contractors, and clients, to ensure all systems are tested and function according to project specifications. They often lead commissioning meetings, provide technical guidance, and address any issues that arise during system integration and start-up. Effective communication and collaboration are crucial, as the role involves balancing technical requirements with project timelines and client expectations. This collaborative approach helps ensure a smooth handover and successful project completion.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal commissioning engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Commissioning Engineer, you need deep expertise in engineering principles, commissioning processes, and relevant industry standards, typically supported by a degree in engineering and substantial field experience. Familiarity with commissioning management software, safety systems, and certifications such as PMP or relevant safety qualifications are often required. Strong leadership, problem-solving abilities, and excellent communication skills set top performers apart in overseeing complex projects and multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are crucial for ensuring safe, efficient, and compliant project delivery in demanding technical environments.

What is the difference between Principal Commissioning Engineer vs Commissioning Engineer?

AspectPrincipal Commissioning EngineerCommissioning Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires extensive experience, engineering degree, and professional certificationsRequires relevant engineering degree and some certifications, less experience needed
Work EnvironmentLeads complex projects, oversees teams, and interacts with senior managementPerforms on-site testing, troubleshooting, and commissioning tasks under supervision
Industry UsageUsed in large-scale industrial, power, and infrastructure projectsCommon in various construction, industrial, and energy projects

The Principal Commissioning Engineer typically has more experience, leadership responsibilities, and oversees entire commissioning processes. In contrast, the Commissioning Engineer focuses on executing testing and commissioning tasks under guidance. Both roles are essential, but the Principal role involves higher-level planning and coordination.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Commissioning Engineer jobs?

For Principal Commissioning Engineer jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Principal Commissioning Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $147,220 per year, or $70.8 per hour.

Associate Commissioning Engineer

Saco, ME • On-site

Wunderlich-Malec Engineering, Inc.
Construction • 501 - 1,000 employees

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

3600 Electrical Testing
Saco, ME 04072, USA

Description

Wunderlich-Malec Services (WM) is a 100% employee-owned ESOP and one of the largest and most well-established engineering companies in the United States. When you join WM you become part of a company that is:

  • 100% employee-owned with 40+ years of industry history
  • A Top 5 Systems Integrator Giant
  • ENR Top 500 Firm

Primary Purpose

The Associate Commissioning/Testing Engineer will be responsible for supporting the testing and commissioning of electrical equipment within an electrical substation or generator plant. Learning and performing electrical testing including, but not limited to, protection relays, circuit breakers, transformers and other substation equipment. Associate Commissioning Engineer is responsible for working with senior level engineers in relay testing, equipment testing and substation commissioning. Responsibilities also include:

Major Responsibilities

This position requires the Associate Commissioning Engineer to assist and eventually lead in the testing and commissioning of substation and generation station components. Responsibilities include:

  • Review specifications and engineering drawings to understand the purpose and functionality of substation and/or power plant
  • Perform functional testing and troubleshooting of various AC/DC power systems
  • Gain understanding of relay protection and control systems
  • Learn NETA electrical testing specifications for devices seen in the substation/generation world
  • Assist as necessary during critical work junctures (final commissioning and through startup)
  • Demonstrate ability to service newly designed and experimental equipment, which has not been seen before, and instill confidence in the customer
  • Demonstrate safety consciousness in equipment handling, electrical and electronic procedures, and the unique situations encountered at diverse work sites
  • Maintain all service equipment including all test equipment, tools issued to meet specifications including ISO requirements, etc. in good working condition and maintain sufficient inventory to respond to standard calls
  • Develops and maintains strong working relationships with customers and demonstrates an awareness of customer needs, preferences, and time and financial constraints
  • Assists in the development of estimates for client proposals
  • Ability to understand AC and DC elementary diagrams, wiring diagrams and one-line drawings for the purpose of understanding system operation and developing testing requirements and procedures
  • Maintain all project documentation including certifications and calibration records

Ideal Candidate Qualifications

  • Proven ability to optimize in a collaborative, team-oriented environment
  • Goal oriented and focused
  • Strong drive, energy, enthusiasm, and proactive style
  • Excellent communication (written and oral) & interpersonal skills
  • Proven ability with problem solving and decision making
  • The ideal candidate must have a diverse skill set with the ability to work independently and to learn new skills easily

Job Requirements

Education – A Bachelor’s degree in engineering (electrical, mechanical or engineering technology) from an accredited institution is preferred.

Experience – A minimum of 0-4+ years testing & commissioning experience should include an understanding and/or experience of:

  • Three-phase power systems
  • Protection and control schemes and implementation
  • Ladder logic and Boolean algebra
  • Microprocessor based relays setting and programming
  • Print reading

Travel - Ability to travel a minimum of 50%.

Driver’s License - Must possess and maintain a valid and unrestricted driver’s license.

Physical Demands of Position - Seeing, color perception, hearing, listening, clear speech, dexterity in hands, driving, lifting, climbing, ability to mount and dismount equipment, pushing, and pulling, warm and cold temperature conditions, sun exposure, moisture, potential exposure to hazardous materials and electrical voltages.

Working Conditions- Standard office work, work-from-home, and in the field leadership: On site environment could require work in various temperature conditions; in and/or around moisture, on slippery and/or uneven surfaces, in confined spaces, and at heights; will require frequent standing, driving a 4-wheel drive vehicle, and occasional bending, squatting, climbing, twisting, balancing, and reaching; will have exposure to noise, vibrations and chemicals. May require irregular or extended hours, subject to being on call and travel for project completion.

*Job Descriptions are not exhaustive lists of all skills, responsibilities, or efforts associated with a job. They reflect principal job elements essential for performing the job and evaluating performance.

Wunderlich-Malec is proud to offer a comprehensive employee-owner benefit package. Full-time employees may be eligible for the following benefits:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Basic and Supplemental Life and AD&D
  • Long Term Disability
  • Voluntary Short Term Disability
  • Healthcare & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Health Savings Account
  • Paid Time Off (PTO)
  • Paid Holidays
  • Tuition Reimbursement
  • Referral Bonus Program
  • 401(k)/Profit Sharing
  • 100% ESOP (Employee Stock Ownership Plan)
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Will Preparation Resources
  • Worldwide Travel Assistance

#LI-WM1

#LI-Hybrid

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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