PMO Commissioning Manager

British Antarctic Survey; Cambridge; Hybrid; GBP 56,000 - 63,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading interdisciplinary research organization in Cambridge is seeking a Commissioning Manager to oversee mechanical and electrical systems in their Rothera Modernisation Project. The ideal candidate will lead on-site supervision, manage project teams, and ensure compliance with design specifications. This role offers a salary range of £56,509 - £62,159 and flexible working options, including hybrid arrangements.

Benefits

Flexible working options

Hybrid working arrangements

Supportive work environment

Qualifications

• Strong leadership in construction supervision.
• Expertise in mechanical and electrical systems.
• Experience in managing technical compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead M&E supervision and commissioning phases.
• Manage outputs of Technical Supervisor and Commissioning Engineer.
• Plan commissioning and handover processes.

Skills

Mechanical and electrical degree or extensive experience

M&E commissioning experience

Experience leading teams

Job description

Overview

COMMISSIONING MANAGER

£56,509 - £62,159 the band E minimum, and is the normal starting pay for those new to a role. In exceptional circumstances, when relevant skills and experience can be identified, a higher starting salary may be considered.

We will give full consideration to requests for flexible and part time working, such as reduced hours, compressed hours or job sharing. We also offer hybrid working and recognise the many benefits this brings. The nature of the role will determine if flexible and hybrid working options are possible.

Interview date - Tue 7 Oct 25

British Antarctic Survey (BAS) is looking for an exceptional mechanical and/or electrical commissioning manager to join our Rothera Modernisation team. BAS delivers and enables world-leading interdisciplinary research in the Polar Regions. We employ experts from many different professions to carry out our Science as well as keep the lights on, feed the research and support teams and keep everyone safe!

Working at BAS is rewarding. Our skilled science, operational and support staff based in Cambridge, Antarctica and the Arctic, work together to deliver research that uses the Polar Regions to advance our understanding of Earth as a sustainable planet. Through our extensive logistic capability and know how BAS facilitates access for the British and international science community to the UK polar research operation. Numerous national and international collaborations, combined with an excellent infrastructure help sustain a world leading position for the UK in Antarctic affairs. British Antarctic Survey is a component of the Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), which is part of UK Research and Innovation www.ukri.org

You'll be joining our Rothera Modernisation Project Team as it looks to complete the permanent works on our new operations and scientific support building, The Discovery Building and the network of site wide services in this forthcoming season. Post handover, we concentrate on completing the first year of the post occupancy evaluation of brand-new assets and address any defects before financial close in 2027.

You'll lead the M&E on-site supervision of the completion of the installation, support witnessing of the site acceptance tests, commissioning and training on the mechanical and electrical systems within Discovery Building. You will lead the assessment of the test data, prepare operational risk assessments of our MEP systems and lead on the acceptance process for handover of the new systems in the 2025-26 Season. Your role will sign-off acceptance of the handover documentation including as-built, H&S file and asset data. You will work with the Contractor on agreeing the defects list at handover and working with all parties to develop any modifications to the design in preparation for the defect's 2026-27 year.

Within the role, there will be an opportunity to develop further expertise in the leading of the Client through the commissioning process of the mechanical and electrical systems, and work with facilities management on optimising the Building Management System (BMS) for the new asset and legacy buildings. The role will develop project management skills at a critical time of handover and transition into business as usual.

Current projects the team are working on include the completion and commissioning of the Discovery Building's power generation and Low-Temperature Hot Water (LTHW) district heating system that contributes to the reduction in operational carbon emissions. The team are also completing final installation of fire stopping details and fire detection systems throughout the building, and completing the installation and configuration of the BMS to run the life-support systems for both the building, but also the distribution of services to other buildings on Station.

You'll be joining a world-leading interdisciplinary research organisation, that is committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support, you need to thrive at BAS.

Some of your main responsibilities will include:

• Provide M&E lead in the on-site supervision team and provide AIMP leadership during construction and commissioning phases.
• Manage the outputs of the Technical Supervisor and Commissioning Engineer on Station including the oversight of technical compliance with the Basis of Design (BOD).
• Provide line management support whilst on site for the Technical Supervisor and Commissioning Engineer.
• Lead on BAS planning of the commissioning and handover, liaising with the Construction Partner, Technical Advisor, User Technical Lead and MEP teams.

For the role of Commissioning Manager, we are looking for somebody who has:

• Mechanical and electrical degree or extensive experience
• M&E commissioning experience on building construction projects
• Experience leading teams in supervision of construction activity

If you've just described you, we'd love to hear from you. Apply now at bas.ac.uk/vacancies.

What experiences can we offer you?

At BAS we believe everyone plays a vital role, is unique and valued, therefore, we embrace diversity as well as equality of opportunity and are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming working environment where everyone's unique perspectives are valued.

Different perspectives and collaborative working help us achieve our best work and come together to form a high performing team which makes positive changes in the business. That's the power of every individual. Our cultural values are built on mutual respect, inclusion, commitment and excellence.

If you are looking for an opportunity to work with world class and amazing people in one of the most unique places in the world, then British Antarctic Survey could be for you.

If you require the job information in an alternative format (i.e. email, audio or video), or would like any further information or support, please do not hesitate to get in touch at [e-mail] or alternatively you can call us on 01223 221508.