Turbine Commissioning Engineer

The Mid-Level Turbine Commissioning Engineer is responsible for executing and supervising key activities during the pre-commissioning, commissioning, start-up, and performance testing of gas and/or steam turbines and their auxiliary systems. This role involves technical execution, coordination with controls and instrumentation teams, and active involvement in system troubleshooting.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Pre-Commissioning & Installation Validation

• Conduct mechanical walkdowns to confirm system readiness (equipment alignment, piping, electrical terminations).

• Verify flushing, purging, and pressure testing of systems (e.g., lube oil, seal gas).

• Ensure all commissioning documentation, drawings, and P&IDs are up to date and accurate.

2. Turbine Commissioning Execution

• Execute system start-up sequences including barring gear engagement, oil system priming, and rotor checks.

• Perform trip tests, interlock verifications, and safety shutdown checks.

• Oversee and monitor turbine start-up, ramp-up, and performance stabilization.

3. Controls and Instrumentation Coordination

• Collaborate with Controls Engineers (PLC/DCS/Mark VIe) for I/O checks, logic validation, and signal testing.

• Confirm proper functioning of vibration monitoring, anti-surge systems, and interface with BOP systems.

4. Testing & Troubleshooting

• Conduct operational and performance testing of turbines and auxiliaries.

• Identify and troubleshoot mechanical, process, and controls issues in real-time.

• Support integration testing with plant-wide systems or DCS.

5. Documentation & Handover

• Maintain detailed commissioning logs, test records, and punch list tracking.

• Prepare system turnover packages for client acceptance and operations handover.

6. Safety & Compliance

• Ensure adherence to all site safety procedures including LOTO, hot work permits, and confined space entry.

• Conduct and participate in toolbox talks, risk assessments, and job safety analysis.

Key Focus Areas:

• Turbomachinery Types:

  • Gas turbines (GE Frame/LM, Siemens SGT, Mitsubishi, Solar, Rolls-Royce)

  • Steam turbines (condensing, back-pressure, extraction)

  • Turbine-driven compressors, pumps, or generators

• Auxiliary System Scope:

  • Lube oil and seal oil/gas systems

  • Cooling water, fuel gas, nitrogen purge, turning gear

  • Bently Nevada 3500 system for vibration monitoring

• Controls Systems Interaction:

  • GE Mark VIe / ToolboxST

  • Siemens S7/T3000, Allen-Bradley, or equivalent

  • Familiarity with HMI, SCADA, and anti-surge control systems

• Testing Tools & Practices:

  • Use of vibration analyzers, thermal imagers, alignment tools

  • API standards (API 616, 617, 614), OEM procedures, and commissioning checklists

Qualifications & Skills:

• Education:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, or Control Engineering

  • Diploma in Engineering with solid field experience may also be considered

• Experience:

  • 3–7 years of experience in turbine installation, commissioning, or field service (OEM or EPC background)

• Certifications (Preferred):

  • OEM training (GE, Siemens, Solar, etc.)

  • Site safety certifications (OSHA, H2S, First Aid, etc.)

• Technical Competencies:

  • Strong knowledge of turbine start-up sequences, auxiliary system operations

  • Familiar with instrumentation, loop checks, and functional testing

  • Ability to read and interpret P&IDs, wiring diagrams, and control logic

• Soft Skills:

  • Strong communication and teamwork in multi-disciplinary site teams

  • Capable of working independently in challenging site environments

  • Solution-oriented and calm under pressure during troubleshooting and start-up phases