Northern Trust

Commissioning Authority (MEP)

Northern Trust • $80K — $125K *
Oakland, CA 94601In-Person
Real Estate & Construction
Less than 5 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 3+ years in building commissioning, mechanical design, test and balance, or HVAC controls programming.
  • Strong understanding of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and control systems.
  • Experience with extensive testing of HVAC and backup-power systems.
  • Proficient in interpreting construction drawings and specifications.
  • Excellent problem-solving, troubleshooting, and time management skills.
  • Experience managing multiple projects within set budgets.
  • Willingness to travel up to 40% for field work.

Responsibilities

  • Lead commissioning efforts through all project phases.
  • Conduct design reviews and communicate findings to stakeholders.
  • Create comprehensive commissioning documents and plans.
  • Oversee commissioning for small to mid-sized projects.
  • Perform energy audits and retro-commissioning assessments.
  • Execute functional tests on various building systems.
  • Document performance issues and relay recommendations to teams.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits.
  • 401(k) with employee ownership options and life/disability insurance.
  • Generous paid time off and holidays, including office closure at year-end.
  • Opportunities for professional development and mentorship.
  • Paid volunteer time and community engagement opportunities.
Full Job Description
Position Description

The Commissioning Authority will lead commissioning activities throughout the project lifecycle. This person will review designs, develop commissioning documentation, conduct field testing and energy assessments, coordinate with project stakeholders, and help ensure building systems perform as intended.

Key Responsibilities:
  • Perform commissioning-focused design reviews and submit findings for approval.
  • Develop commissioning specifications, project-specific commissioning plans, pre-functional checklists, and functional performance tests.
  • Manage commissioning delivery for small and midsize projects.
  • Conduct energy audits and retro-commissioning assessments.
  • Functionally test HVAC, plumbing, electrical, controls, lighting, and backup-power systems.
  • Document system performance, troubleshoot issues, and communicate recommendations to clients and project teams.
  • Perform field work safely, including climbing ladders, walking on roofs, and navigating active construction sites.

Requirements:
  • At least 3 years of experience in building commissioning, mechanical design, test and balance, or HVAC controls programming.
  • Strong knowledge of mechanical, electrical, plumbing, and direct digital control systems.
  • Experience testing pumps, chillers, cooling towers, boilers, air-handling systems, radiant floors, venturi valves, fume hoods, lighting controls, and backup-power systems.
  • Thorough understanding of construction drawings and specifications.
  • Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, communication, and time-management skills.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects within established budgets.
  • Ability and willingness to travel overnight for field work up to 40% of the time.

Desired Experience & Skills:
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering; relevant mechanical startup, test and balance, controls, energy-management, or commissioning experience may be considered in lieu of a degree.
  • Professional Engineer license or interest in obtaining licensure.
  • Commissioning certification through BCxA, ACG, or ASHRAE, or interest in earning certification within 6-12 months.
  • Experience with retro-commissioning, energy audits, HVAC design, laboratories, office buildings, higher education, mission-critical facilities, K-12, or other commercial projects.
  • Familiarity with backup power, fire alarm, security, energy metering, and photovoltaic systems.
  • Knowledge of ASHRAE Standard 90.1, California Title 24, and applicable energy codes.

Benefits:

Salary Range: $80,000-$125,000 annually, plus eligibility for a conditional bonus.
  • Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • 401(k), employee ownership opportunities, life insurance, disability coverage, and transportation benefits.
  • Generous paid time off, paid holidays, and a year-end office closure.
  • Professional development, mentorship, and opportunities for continued career growth.
  • Paid volunteer time and opportunities to contribute to the local community.

Ready to Make an Impact?

If you are ready to bring technical curiosity, field expertise, and a collaborative mindset to projects that improve how buildings perform, we would welcome the opportunity to connect. Help deliver healthier, more efficient, and more resilient facilities-apply today.

This position offers a flexible hybrid schedule with a minimum of two days per week in the Los Angeles office.

About Northern Trust

Northern Trust is a global leader in delivering innovative investment management, asset and fund administration, and fiduciary and banking solutions to corporations, institutions, and affluent individuals. They have evolved with the changing needs of their clients and their world.

Northern Trust Careers

Joining Northern Trust means becoming part of a global financial services institution that is dedicated to providing expert guidance and innovative solutions to its clients. At Northern Trust, we pride ourselves on fostering a culture of leadership, diversity, and innovation, which makes us a premier destination for career growth in the financial industry.

Work You’ll Do

At Northern Trust, you will collaborate with some of the most talented professionals in the financial sector. Our team is committed to excellence and equipped with a diverse range of skills that contribute to our dynamic environment. Here, you will have the opportunity to lead projects that transform our services and drive significant value for our clients across the globe.

Explore Job Opportunities and Internships

Whether you are starting your career or looking to make a significant impact in the financial industry, Northern Trust offers a variety of job opportunities and internships that will help you achieve your professional goals. From entry-level positions to leadership roles, our company is actively hiring individuals who are passionate, curious, and driven to excel.

Innovative Work

Northern Trust is at the forefront of financial innovation. Our employees are encouraged to think creatively and leverage cutting-edge technologies to solve complex problems. By joining our team, you will work on pioneering solutions that redefine the standards of financial services.

Be Part of a Great Team

Our team at Northern Trust is more than just a group of employees – we are a community. We value collaboration, and our culture is built on mutual respect and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Working with us, you will experience a supportive network that is passionate about sharing knowledge and ideas.

Future-Proof Your Career

Northern Trust is dedicated to your professional development. We offer comprehensive benefits, diversity training, and numerous resources to help you grow your career. With our support, you can expand your skills, gain valuable experience, and achieve professional certifications that will enhance your career trajectory.

Stay Connected

Join Our Team

Discover the perfect role for you at Northern Trust by exploring our current job openings that match your skills and interests. We are looking for professionals who are solution-driven and eager to contribute to our legacy of financial excellence.

Keep Up to Date

Stay informed with the latest career tips, industry insights, and professional growth opportunities—all available through our careers blog. At Northern Trust, we ensure that our team members are always ahead in the industry.

Job Alert Emails

Customize your experience by subscribing to job alerts and insider tips tailored to your preferences. At Northern Trust, exciting and rewarding opportunities are always on the horizon, and we are eager to see where your talents can take us. Join Northern Trust today and be part of a company that values innovation, leadership, and a diverse and inclusive workplace. Here, every position is a chance to contribute to something bigger and to turn your job into a meaningful career.
Learn more about Northern Trust
Size
21,100 employees
Market Cap
$18.1 billion
Industry
Finance & Insurance
Net Income
$1.2 billion
Founded
1889
5 Year Trend
+4.9%
Revenue
$6.1 billion
NASDAQ
NTRS
* Ladders Estimates

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