Commissioning Manager

Vertical Mechanical Group; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) seeks a Commissioning Manager to lead startup and commissioning across HVAC, plumbing, mechanical, and BAS systems. You will oversee technicians, coordinate with project teams, and drive successful project close-out.

The role demands a strong technically oriented leader with 8+ years in MEP commissioning, 5+ years leading teams, and expertise in BAS systems and electrical coordination. Travel to project sites is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC, or construction-related field.
• 8+ years in MEP systems commissioning, testing, or related field.
• 5+ years leading field technicians across multiple projects.
• Strong hands-on experience with HVAC, mechanical, and plumbing startups and testing.
• Ability to interpret drawings, specs, and sequences of operations.
• Experience with BAS front-end systems and coordinating with electricians, controls contractors, and vendors.

Responsibilities

• Lead startup and commissioning technicians across multiple commercial projects.
• Oversee startup coordinator, scheduling, crew assignments, and parts procurement.
• Develop startup reports, checklists, and functional testing procedures.
• Direct technicians during testing with third-party agents and ensure proper system operation.
• Collaborate with PMs, field teams, subs, and manufacturers to resolve issues.
• Improve commissioning processes and documentation for efficiency.

Skills

Leadership

Troubleshooting

Communication

Organizational skills

MS Office

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC, or construction-related field

Tools

BAS front-end systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Commercial Mechanical Construction | HVAC, Plumbing & Controls

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) | AMSI Services

Lead the Systems. Solve the Challenges. Drive Project Success.

At Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG), we are always seeking talented individuals to join our growing team. Our commitment to exceptional customer service and innovative solutions drives our success and fuels continuous expansion. We're excited to offer opportunities for motivated professionals who are ready to elevate their careers. When you join VMG, you become part of a close-knit, supportive team that values both its employees and clients. Here, your growth powers our success.

Lead Our Commissioning & Startup Operations

Vertical Mechanical Group (VMG) is seeking an experienced and solutions-driven Commissioning Manager to lead our startup and commissioning operations across commercial HVAC, plumbing, mechanical, and building automation systems. This role is ideal for a technically strong leader who enjoys solving complex field challenges, managing high-performing teams, and ensuring mechanical systems operate as designed.

As our Commissioning Manager, you will oversee startup technicians, commissioning activities, functional performance testing, warranty repairs, and project close-out. You will work closely with Project Managers, field teams, subcontractors, and third-party commissioning agents to ensure projects are completed successfully.

Reporting directly to the Director of Commissioning & Controls, you will play a key role in improving commissioning processes, developing technicians, and driving successful project delivery.

What You'll Do

Team Leadership & Commissioning Management

• Lead and manage startup and commissioning technicians across multiple commercial construction projects.
• Oversee the Startup Coordinator, including scheduling, crew assignments, and procurement of parts and materials.
• Establish priorities across equipment startups, functional testing, warranty repairs, and commissioning issue resolution.
• Mentor and develop technicians while promoting quality, efficiency, and accountability.
• Coordinate commissioning schedules with project milestones and general contractor requirements.

Equipment Startup & Functional Testing

• Oversee startup and commissioning activities for HVAC, mechanical, plumbing, and building automation systems (BAS).
• Coordinate equipment startups with internal teams, subcontractors, controls contractors, and equipment manufacturers.
• Develop and review startup reports, pre-functional checklists, and functional performance testing procedures.
• Direct technicians during functional performance testing alongside third-party commissioning agents.
• Review mechanical drawings, specifications, and control sequences to ensure proper system operation.
• Conduct field inspections, troubleshoot equipment performance, and resolve technical challenges.

Commissioning & Project Close-Out

• Take ownership of commissioning close-out activities across assigned projects.
• Manage commissioning issue logs, track deficiencies, and coordinate corrective actions through resolution.
• Ensure functional testing, startup documentation, and turnover packages are completed accurately and on time.
• Collaborate with Project Managers, field teams, and subcontractors to resolve outstanding commissioning issues.
• Support commissioning sign-off and project completion milestones.

Warranty, Troubleshooting & Process Improvement

• Oversee warranty repairs and coordinate technical support with manufacturers and vendors.
• Troubleshoot complex HVAC, plumbing, and control system performance issues.
• Identify recurring system deficiencies and implement practical corrective solutions.
• Improve commissioning procedures, reporting tools, and testing processes to increase efficiency and reduce project delays.

Collaboration & Communication

• Serve as a primary point of contact for general contractors, owners, and third-party commissioning agents.
• Provide updates on commissioning progress, open issues, crew utilization, and project close-out.
• Work closely with internal departments to ensure commissioning activities align with project expectations and schedules.

What We're Looking For

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, HVAC, or a construction-related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in MEP systems commissioning, testing, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of experience leading field technicians or startup crews across multiple projects.
• Strong hands-on experience with HVAC, mechanical, and plumbing equipment startups and functional performance testing.
• Proven ability to manage commissioning activities from initial planning through final project close-out.
• Strong understanding of HVAC, plumbing, and building automation/control systems.
• Ability to interpret construction drawings, specifications, and sequences of operations.
• Experience using BAS front-end systems to monitor, trend, troubleshoot, and verify system performance.
• Strong technical troubleshooting, leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Ability to travel between project locations and perform field inspections as needed.

Preferred Qualifications

• Commissioning certification such as BCxP, CxA, CxT, or CCP.
• Experience working directly with third-party commissioning agents and general contractors.
• Strong background in resolving complex mechanical and controls-related issues.
• Experience improving commissioning procedures, documentation, and team performance.

What Makes You a Great Fit

We're looking for someone who is more than just technically experienced. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who takes ownership, thinks creatively, and knows how to bring people together to solve challenges.

You’ll Thrive In This Role If You

• Enjoy troubleshooting complex mechanical and control systems.
• Can effectively balance competing priorities across multiple active projects.
• Take pride in developing technicians and building strong teams.
• Are proactive, organized, and committed to seeing projects through completion.
• Communicate effectively with field personnel, project leadership, and clients.
• Have a strong commitment to quality, safety, and continuous improvement.

Join the VMG Team!

At Vertical Mechanical Group, we believe our people are the foundation of our success. We take pride in delivering high-quality mechanical construction solutions while creating opportunities for our team members to grow professionally.

Salary: $110000 - $130000 per year