Position Overview:
Vertex Innovations is seeking an experienced Data Center Commissioning Manager to lead and manage the commissioning process for mission-critical data center projects. This role is responsible for ensuring that all building systems are planned, tested, validated, and documented to meet design intent, operational requirements, and client expectations.
Location:
Initial Site Location: Dallas, TX (local candidates within daily commuting distance preferred. Required to be on-site.)
This is a field-based position requiring regular weekly travel and on-site work at client project locations, as assigned. The initial assignment is near Dallas, TX. The initial assignment is expected to last several months, with future assignments varying based on project needs and client requirements. Candidates must maintain a permanent residence and be willing to travel to assigned project sites on a weekly basis. The company offers travel expense reimbursement in accordance with company policy.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the full life-cycle commissioning process for data center projects (Level 1-5).
- Develop and manage commissioning plans, schedules, and test scripts.
- Coordinate with design engineers, construction teams, vendors, and clients.
- Oversee mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), fire/life safety, controls, and integrated systems testing.
- Ensure compliance with project specifications, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
- Manage factory witness testing (FWT), site acceptance testing (SAT), and integrated systems testing (IST).
- Review and approve commissioning documentation, reports, and turnover packages.
- Identify risks, track deficiencies, and drive resolution through completion.
- Support client training, handover, and operational readiness.
- Provide leadership and mentorship to commissioning engineers and agents.
Qualifications:
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
- Relevant certifications, such as Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP), ASHRAE Commissioning Process Management Professional (CPMP), or LEED Accredited Professional, are a plus.
- OSHA 30 Construction certification
Experience & Skills:
- 7+ years of experience in data center commissioning or mission-critical facilities.
- Strong knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems in data centers.
- Experience with integrated systems testing and phased commissioning.
- Ability to read and interpret construction drawings and specifications.
- Excellent communication, coordination, and leadership skills.
- Willingness to travel to project sites as required.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP), CxA, or similar certification.
- Experience with hyperscale or colocation data centers.
- Familiarity with ASHRAE, NFPA, IEEE, and Uptime Institute standards.
- Strong reporting and documentation skills.
Working Conditions:
- Travel up to 100% to data center project sites, for the duration of assignments as required.
- Ability to work in construction and industrial environments, including exposure to varying temperatures, noise levels, and confined spaces; ability to perform regular site walkdowns and climb ladders, stairs, and scaffolding as needed.
- Ability to support night shift and weekend testing events. Energization events, load bank tests, and Integrated Systems Testing (IST) often occur on nights and weekends to avoid impacting construction activities.
- Extended hours expected during critical project phases, particularly around energization, IST, turnover, and project close-out.
Compensation & Benefits:
- $130,000 - $170,000, dependent on experience and location
- Health Benefits: Medical, Dental, Vision, LTD/STD, Life-AD&D
- Retirement: 401(k), discretionary Pension & Profit sharing, subject to Plan documents
- 15 days paid time off (prorated based on start date) and 8 holidays
- Company credit card for qualified travel expenses
- NFPA 70E Arc Flash training provided
- Professional development and certification reimbursement opportunities
Pre-Employment Requirements:
- Successful completion of a background check.
- Successful completion of drug testing.
- Must have a valid US driver's license
- Must have permanent residence in CONUS with access to a primary airport for weekly travel
