Commissioning Project Manager - Data Center Construction

FST Technical Services; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 140,000 - 170,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Per diem

Mobilization support

Job summary

FST Technical Services is hiring a Project Manager - Data Center Operations to lead high-visibility, mission-critical data center projects with ownership and decisive leadership. You will drive commissioning from pre-construction to validation, coordinate cross-functional teams, and influence both project delivery and operational strategy across hyperscale environments.

The role requires strong client engagement, risk management, and the ability to scale teams while maintaining profitability and

Qualifications

• 10+ years in commissioning, engineering, or mission-critical construction.
• Proven experience delivering data center projects.
• Experience managing multiple concurrent projects and teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning delivery from pre-construction through final validation.
• Oversee functional testing, system validation, and issue resolution.
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and at the highest quality standards.
• Identify system risks, scope gaps, and performance issues early.
• Partner with field teams to drive real-time problem solving.
• Interpret contract documents to reduce risk and maximize value.
• Manage project profitability, utilization, and forecasting.
• Review invoicing and support financial reporting processes.
• Lead, mentor, and develop commissioning engineers.
• Support staffing, hiring, and team scalability.
• Build accountability and consistency across project execution.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to clients.
• Strengthen relationships and support repeat business.
• Contribute to project pursuits, pricing, and growth strategy.
• Drive process improvements and operational efficiency.

Skills

10+ years in commissioning, eng

Data center project delivery

Managing multiple projects/teams

Job description

We’re excited to connect with candidates in Chicago; however, this role is based in Atlanta, GA or San Jose, CA. The position offers opportunities for travel and relocation, and we’re seeking candidates who are open to this flexibility. Please note that the role is not based in Chicago. Monthly per diem and mobilization is on offer.

Lead the Delivery of Mission-Critical Infrastructure That Powers the World

At FST Technical Services, wedon’tjust support projects—we ensure that the most critical facilities in the world perform flawlessly from day one. Our commissioning teamsoperatein high-performance environments across hyperscale data centers where precision, reliability, and execution are non-negotiable.

We are seeking a Project Manager - Data Center Operations (Cx) who thrives in fast-paced environments, leads from the front, and takes ownership of complex project outcomes.

Why Top Talent Chooses This Role

This is not a traditional PM role.

You will:

• Lead high-visibility, mission-critical data center projects
• Operate with real ownership and decision-making authority
• Influence both project delivery and operational strategy
• Work alongside highly technical teams solving complex problems daily

Strong preference for candidates with experience across the full L1-L5 commissioning lifecycle in hyperscale environments.

WhatYou’llOwn

Project Leadership & Execution

• Lead commissioning delivery from pre-construction through final validation
• Oversee functional testing, system validation, and issue resolution
• Ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget, and at the highest quality standards

Technical & Operational Leadership

• Identify system risks, scope gaps, and performance issues early
• Partner with field teams to drive real-time problem solving
• Interpret contract documents to reduce risk and maximize value

Financial Performance

• Manage project profitability, utilization, and forecasting
• Review invoicing and support financial reporting processes

Team Leadership

• Lead, mentor, and develop commissioning engineers
• Support staffing, hiring, and team scalability
• Build accountability and consistency across project execution

Client Leadership & Growth

• Serve as a trusted advisor to clients
• Strengthen relationships and support repeat business
• Contribute to project pursuits, pricing, and growth strategy

Quality & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure consistent technical standards across all projects
• Drive process improvements and operational efficiency

What You Bring

Core Experience

• 10+ years in commissioning, engineering, or mission-critical construction
• Proven experience delivering data center projects
• Experience managing multiple concurrent projects and teams

Preferred Experience

• Full L1-L5 commissioning lifecycle experience
• Hyperscale data center exposure strongly preferred

Technical Capability

• Strong understanding of MEP systems, commissioning processes, and system interconnectivity
• Ability to read and interpret construction drawings, specifications, and contracts

Leadership & Business Skills

• Strong client relationship management
• Proven ability to lead, mentor, and scale teams
• Financial acumen including budgeting, forecasting, and margin management

Professional Skills

• Excellent communication and presentation ability
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making capability
• Ability to operate both strategically and tactically

Work Environment & Travel

• Active construction and mission-critical facility environments
• Ability to lift up to 30 pounds and navigate job sites
• Travel required based on project needs

Why FST

At FST, you are part of a team that values execution, accountability, andexpertise. You will have the opportunity to influence how commissioning is delivered, grow high-performing teams, and work on some of the most complex data center projects in the industry.

Important Notes

• No visa sponsorship available
• Candidates mustbe authorized towork in the United States

Salary range: $140,000 to $170,000 depending on experience

FST Technical does not offer employment-based visa sponsorship for this position. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for employer sponsorship now or in the future.