Lead Commissioning Engineer - SemiconductorFST 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 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: $140,000 to $190,000 
