Mechanical Startup Engineer

SGS Consulting; Austin (TX); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

SGS Consulting seeks an experienced Mechanical Commissioning Lead to drive startup activities for industrial systems onsite. You will guide field teams through testing, commissioning procedures, and document turnover, ensuring safety and quality throughout the project lifecycle.

The role requires a strong background in mechanical systems, rotating equipment, and complex commissioning workflows, with willingness to work extended shifts in a dynamic construction environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Experience in mechanical commissioning, startup, maintenance, or operations in industrial facilities.
• Strong understanding of rotating equipment and testing procedures.
• Onsite work in active construction environments is required.
• Willingness to work night/split shifts and overtime as needed.
• Physically able to climb ladders, work at heights, and wear PPE in field conditions.

Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning and startup activities for mechanical systems from component testing to integrated plant operation.
• Provide technical guidance to construction teams during pre-commissioning.
• Test pumps, compressors, turbines, diesel engines, heat exchangers, piping, and safety devices.
• Coordinate with electrical, instrumentation, controls, operations, and vendor reps to execute plans.
• Prepare and maintain commissioning docs, test reports, turnover packages, and system records.
• Manage punch lists, walkdowns, and resolution of deficiencies.
• Supervise technicians, subcontractors, and craft personnel for safe startup.
• Monitor vendor support while ensuring compliance with procedures and safety standards.
• Prepare and track documents, NCRs, FCRs, DRs, and spare parts requirements.

Skills

Experience 4+ yrs

Mechanical commissioning

Startup

Maintenance

Oil & Gas

Petrochemical

LNG

Oil & Gas facilities

Rotating equipment

Commissioning procedures

Equipment testing

Onsite work

Night shifts

Overtime

Climbing heights

Confined spaces

PPE compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Job description

Job Responsibilities

• Lead commissioning and startup activities for assigned mechanical systems from component testing through integrated plant operation.
• Provide technical guidance to construction teams performing pre-commissioning activities.
• Perform testing of pumps, compressors, turbines, diesel engines, heat exchangers, piping systems, and mechanical safety devices.
• Coordinate with electrical, instrumentation, controls, operations, and vendor representatives to execute commissioning plans.
• Prepare and maintain commissioning documentation, test reports, turnover packages, and system records.
• Manage punch list items, system walkdowns, and resolution of commissioning and construction deficiencies.
• Supervise technicians, subcontractors, and craft personnel to ensure safe and efficient startup activities.
• Monitor vendor technical support activities while ensuring compliance with project procedures, safety standards, and industry regulations.
• Prepare and track commissioning documentation, NCRs, FCRs, DRs, material requisitions, and spare parts requirements.

Skills

• Minimum 4 years of relevant experience with a degree or 8 years of equivalent industry experience.
• Experience in Mechanical Commissioning, Startup, Maintenance, Or Operations Within Industrial, Petrochemical, Oil & Gas, LNG, Or Power Generation Facilities.
• Strong understanding of rotating equipment, mechanical systems, commissioning procedures, and equipment testing.
• Ability to work 100% onsite in an active construction environment.
• Willingness to work night shifts, split shifts, extended schedules, and overtime as project requirements dictate.
• Physically capable of climbing ladders, working at heights, walking uneven terrain, working in confined spaces, and wearing required PPE throughout field activities.

Education/Experience

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or an equivalent technical qualification.