Lead Commissioning Engineer - Semiconductor Facilities

Lead Commissioning Engineer - Semiconductor Facilities Location Santa Clara, California | On-site Discipline Mechanical & Electrical Commissioning Travel Support Full per diem and mobilization assistance available for qualified travelers Employment Full-time | Competitive compensation Position Overview FST Technical Services is seeking an experienced Lead Commissioning Engineer to direct both mechanical and electrical commissioning activities on a major semiconductor facility project in Santa Clara, CA. This on-site leader will coordinate field execution, system readiness, testing, issue resolution, documentation, and turnover across multiple disciplines. The ideal candidate has hands-on commissioning expertise and the ability to lead engineers, technicians, contractors, and vendors in a high-tech construction environment. Key Responsibilities • Lead multidisciplinary commissioning for mechanical, electrical, controls, and supporting facility systems from construction verification through startup, functional testing, integrated testing, and turnover. • Develop and execute commissioning plans, test procedures, pre-functional checklists, functional performance tests, and system acceptance documentation. • Coordinate daily priorities and testing windows with the owner, general contractor, trade partners, design engineers, equipment vendors, and operations teams. • Oversee mechanical systems including HVAC, cleanroom air handling, chilled/process cooling water, exhaust, pumps, and associated controls. • Oversee electrical systems including medium-/low-voltage distribution, switchgear, transformers, UPS, generators, emergency power, and related controls as applicable to project scope. • Validate interfaces between mechanical, electrical, BAS/BMS, and facility monitoring systems; support integrated systems testing. • Lead field commissioning personnel, assign tasks, review deliverables, and provide technical troubleshooting and mentorship. • Identify, log, prioritize, and drive closure of deficiencies, punch items, and commissioning-related issues. • Confirm testing is performed safely, with appropriate permits, isolation/LOTO procedures, and approved methods. • Report commissioning progress, risks, schedule impacts, and system readiness to project leadership and client stakeholders. Required Qualifications • 5+ years of commissioning/startup experience in semiconductor, data center, pharmaceutical, or similarly complex industrial facilities; demonstrated lead experience required. • Working knowledge of BOTH mechanical and electrical building/facility systems, including cross-discipline integration and functional testing. • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, mechanical drawings, electrical single-line diagrams, controls sequences, and equipment specifications. • Experience planning field tests, directing contractors and vendors, managing deficiencies, and preparing commissioning records. • Strong communication, leadership, safety awareness, scheduling, and technical problem-solving skills. • Ability to work on-site in Santa Clara and meet project-specific site access and safety requirements. • Engineering degree or equivalent relevant technical experience. Preferred Qualifications • Semiconductor fabrication plant (FAB), cleanroom, or high-tech manufacturing project experience. • Experience with L1-L5 commissioning processes or equivalent phased commissioning methodology. • Experience with BAS/BMS, electrical protection and controls, process utilities, and integrated systems testing. • Professional Engineer (PE), commissioning certification, or relevant trade/technical credentials. Physical Requirements Ability to navigate active construction areas, stand and walk for extended periods, use stairs and ladders as required, and occasionally lift up to 25 pounds. Must be able to wear site-required PPE and perform essential functions with or without reasonable accommodation. Compensation & Benefits • Competitive pay commensurate with experience. • Full per diem and mobilization assistance for qualified traveling resources. • Medical, dental, and vision benefits; 401(k); paid time off and holidays, subject to plan and eligibility terms. • Opportunity to contribute to a major semiconductor construction project. Salary range: $130,000 to $180,000