Freelance Commissioning Manager – Data Centre
Location: Paris, France (On-site)
Contract: Freelance | Long-term
Start Date: ASAP / Flexible
The Opportunity
We are looking for an experienced Commissioning Manager to oversee the commissioning and handover of critical infrastructure on a hyperscale data centre project in Paris.
The role will involve managing the commissioning programme across mechanical and electrical systems, coordinating specialist contractors and ensuring the facility progresses successfully through functional testing, integrated systems testing and operational handover.
The successful candidate will work closely with the project delivery team, commissioning authority, MEP contractors and equipment vendors.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and coordinate Level 1–5 commissioning activities across mechanical and electrical infrastructure.
- Develop and manage the commissioning execution plan, schedules, test procedures and system handover strategy.
- Oversee commissioning of MV/LV switchgear, UPS systems, generators, transformers and critical power distribution.
- Coordinate commissioning of chilled water systems, cooling equipment, CRAH units, pumps and associated mechanical infrastructure.
- Manage commissioning engineers, specialist subcontractors and equipment vendors.
- Coordinate energisation readiness, equipment start-up and functional performance testing.
- Oversee BMS and EPMS integration, controls verification and alarm testing.
- Lead Level 4 functional performance testing and Level 5 integrated systems testing, including failure simulations and redundancy scenarios.
- Monitor commissioning progress, resolve technical issues and manage defect close-out.
- Coordinate system handovers and ensure all commissioning documentation meets client requirements.
- Report commissioning progress, risks and key milestones to project leadership.
Requirements
- Minimum 8+ years' experience in commissioning, including management responsibilities.
- Proven experience managing commissioning on hyperscale data centre projects.
- Strong technical understanding of critical electrical and mechanical infrastructure.
- Experience managing Level 1–5 commissioning programmes.
- Previous experience coordinating MEP contractors, specialist vendors and commissioning teams.
- Strong understanding of energisation, functional performance testing and integrated systems testing.
- Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder management skills.
- English essential; French highly advantageous.