Data Center Construction Mid - Senior Commissioning Project Manager

Austin NAWIC; Charleston (SC); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vacation starts day one

3 weeks PTO + paid birthday off

9 paid holidays annually

Professional development support

Job summary

MGAC is seeking a Data Center Construction Mid - Senior Commissioning Project Manager to lead commissioning strategy for large-scale, mission-critical projects in Charleston, SC. The role focuses on directing commissioning teams, coordinating with stakeholders, and ensuring successful startup and turnover of complex data center infrastructure.

Ideal candidates bring 5+ years in commissioning, 3+ years leading teams, and a relevant engineering degree.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in commissioning or data center projects.
• 3+ years leading commissioning teams and multidisciplinary stakeholders.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, or related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning strategy and execution across large-scale, mission-critical projects.
• Manage commissioning teams and third-party partners across multiple projects.
• Develop commissioning schedules, resource plans, and execution methodologies.
• Oversee equipment start-up, IST, load bank testing, and turnover activities.
• Ensure quality, safety, and adherence to company standards throughout the lifecycle.
• Maintain strong client relationships and communicate project progress.

Skills

Data center commissioning

Project leadership

Stakeholder management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Safety and quality

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or related field

Job description

Charleston, South Carolina, United States

Position Title: Data Center Construction Mid - Senior Commissioning Project Manager

Its an exciting time to join MGAC!

MGAC is a global boutique consultancy dedicated to managing and representing our clients best interests. Our success is rooted in hiring exceptional people who are driven to do challenging work with the unique blend of experience, integrity, creativity, and commitment that separates us from our competitors.

We have three simple goals: to do the most interesting and challenging work, to have fun working together, and to build a successful business in the process.

This position requires significant onsite presence in Charleston, SC with travel required based on project and client needs.

Unlock Your Potential

We're looking for candidates eager to lead complex mission-critical projects, influence project outcomes, and drive operational excellence across large-scale data center developments. Here’s what will set you up for success at MGAC:

• 5+ years of experience in commissioning, construction management, mission-critical facilities, or data center infrastructure projects.
• 3+ years of experience managing commissioning teams, consultants, and multidisciplinary project stakeholders.
• Bachelors degree in Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related technical field. Equivalent experience will be considered.
• Extensive experience supporting hyperscale, colocation, enterprise, or mission-critical data center construction projects.
• Experience leading Level 1-5 commissioning activities for complex MEP and critical infrastructure systems.
• Strong knowledge of electrical distribution, UPS systems, generators, HVAC systems, controls, BMS, EPMS, SCADA, and integrated systems testing.
• Excellent analytical, organizational, leadership, problem-solving, presentation, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while balancing schedule, budget, risk, quality, and client expectations.
• A collaborative leader who thrives in fast-paced environments and is passionate about delivering exceptional project outcomes.

What You’ll Be Doing

MGAC’s Critical Environments team manages some of the most complex and high-profile data center projects in the industry. As a trusted owner's representative, we help clients navigate technical challenges, mitigate risks, and ensure facilities are delivered ready for operations. As a Data Center Construction Mid - Senior Commissioning Project Manager you will lead commissioning strategy and execution across large-scale mission-critical projects and serve as a key advisor to clients throughout the project lifecycle.

Commissioning Leadership

• Lead and manage commissioning teams including Commissioning Managers, Engineers, Project Managers, and third-party commissioning partners.
• Oversee commissioning activities across multiple concurrent data center construction projects.
• Develop commissioning strategies, resource plans, project schedules, and execution methodologies.
• Provide technical leadership throughout design, construction, testing, and turnover phases.
• Mentor and develop team members while promoting a culture of quality, accountability, and safety.

Commissioning Program Delivery

• Direct the full lifecycle of Level 1-5 commissioning activities.
• Review and approve commissioning plans, scripts, procedures, reports, and turnover documentation.
• Oversee equipment start-up, functional performance testing, integrated systems testing (IST), load bank testing, and operational readiness activities.
• Develop and maintain commissioning logs, deficiency logs, equipment checklists, SOPs, MOPs, and project documentation.
• Ensure consistency and compliance with company quality processes and commissioning standards.

Technical Oversight

• Lead commissioning efforts for critical infrastructure systems, including:
• Electrical distribution systems
• Medium- and low-voltage power systems
• UPS systems and battery plants
• Standby generators and fuel systems
• Chillers and cooling plants
• CRAH and CRAC units
• Building Management Systems (BMS)
• EPMS and SCADA systems
• Fire alarm and life safety systems
• Emergency power systems
• Review design documents, specifications, shop drawings, and equipment submittals for commissioning requirements.
• Support troubleshooting, issue resolution, and deficiency management during testing and startup activities.
• Verify testing results and ensure systems meet owner project requirements and operational objectives.

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as a trusted advisor and primary commissioning lead for clients and project stakeholders.
• Facilitate commissioning meetings, project reviews, and progress reporting.
• Coordinate activities among contractors, consultants, vendors, equipment manufacturers, and owner representatives.
• Proactively identify project risks and develop mitigation and recovery strategies.
• Maintain the client’s vision while ensuring successful project delivery.

Our Critical Environments project work continues to experience tremendous growth, with a robust pipeline of hyperscale, colocation, and mission-critical projects across North America.

Why Work With Us?

• 30+ years strong in North America and growing fast with a positive, energizing culture.
• Consistently recognized as a Top Workplace with a true employee-first mindset.
• Entrepreneurial spirit encouraged. Bring fresh ideas and exceed client expectations.
• Global reach, yet agile and client-focused like a boutique firm.
• Your voice matters. Flat structure, open doors, and recognition for your contributions.
• Exposure to some of the most complex and innovative data center projects in the industry.
• Strong work-life balance, generous PTO, and top-tier wellness benefits.

Beyond the Paycheck: Discover Our Benefits

• Recognized as a Top Workplace for over a decade.
• Vacation starts on day one. Accrue 3 weeks per year, plus a paid birthday off.
• 8 sick days and 9 paid holidays annually for full-time employees.
• Competitive benefits that support both personal and professional growth.
• Professional development opportunities and support for industry certifications.

Salary Range

$110,000-$160,000 per year (commensurate with experience)

The advertised salary range is intended as a general guideline and may vary based on factors such as experience, expertise, certifications, and location. This base salary does not reflect the full compensation package, which may include bonuses, a 401(k) match, and other benefits.