Commissioning Manager

About this position:

Shape the future of sustainable process manufacturing. We are seeking a Commissioning Manager for two cutting-edge industrial projects near Preston, focused on sustainable fuel production using advanced powder handling and pharma-grade systems. You will play a pivotal role in delivering complex engineering projects, taking responsibility for pre-commissioning, commissioning, and startup phases of new build and scale-up projects backed by significant investment.

This is a site-based, hands-on role managing the commissioning process of:

• A brand-new manufacturing facility (currently at FEED stage).
• A facility upgrade and scale-up programme (building a new, larger facility to support expanded production capacity).
  You will ensure technical excellence, safety, and quality throughout commissioning, enabling a smooth transition into operations.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement comprehensive commissioning plans for all project phases, including pre-commissioning, commissioning, and startup.
• Establish and maintain commissioning procedures aligned with project and safety requirements.
• Manage and coordinate multidisciplinary commissioning teams, ensuring personnel are competent and appropriately allocated.
• Liaise with project teams, contractors, vendors, and operations personnel to ensure seamless communication and integration throughout commissioning.
• Ensure all commissioning activities comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and company procedures.
• Oversee testing, inspection, and validation of all systems and equipment to confirm compliance with design specifications and operational requirements.
• Identify and resolve technical issues during commissioning to minimise downtime and ensure project timelines are maintained.
• Prepare detailed reports on commissioning activities, including progress updates, findings, and recommendations for improvement.
• Coordinate the final handover of the plant to operations, ensuring a smooth transition with necessary training and documentation provided.
• Identify and assess potential risks during commissioning, developing mitigation plans and ensuring effective risk management practices are in place.

Experience Required:

• Relevant engineering degree, ideally chartered.
• Extensive experience in technical roles within multidisciplinary engineering teams, ideally with EPCm project experience.
• Commissioning management experience within oil & gas, pharmaceuticals, or fine chemicals sectors is highly desirable.
• Proven track record of delivering complex engineering projects from FEED through to handover.
• Enterprising, proactive, and flexible approach with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset.
• Team player who takes ownership and responsibility while leading by example.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and decision-making skills.
• Resilience and ability to operate within a dynamic, complex project environment.