Recruiter's Glossary

Examples: Stakeholder Management • Digital Twin • Economic Impact

Commissioning

Term from Infrastructure Development industry explained for recruiters

Commissioning is the process of making sure that new buildings, systems, or facilities work properly before they're handed over to the owner. It's like a thorough quality check that happens at the end of construction projects. Think of it as similar to test-driving and inspecting a new car before it leaves the dealership, but for buildings and industrial systems. Commissioning specialists verify that everything from air conditioning and heating to electrical systems and safety equipment works correctly and meets the building owner's requirements. This process also includes training the people who will operate the building and creating detailed documentation about how everything works.

Examples in Resumes

Led Commissioning of a new hospital's mechanical and electrical systems

Managed Commissioning process for 5 data center facilities across North America

Developed Commissioning plans and executed testing procedures for renewable energy plants

Performed building Commissioning and Systems Commissioning for commercial properties

Typical job title: "Commissioning Engineers"

Also try searching for:

Commissioning Manager Commissioning Agent Building Systems Engineer Commissioning Authority MEP Commissioning Engineer Cx Engineer Building Commissioning Specialist

Where to Find Commissioning Engineers

Professional Organizations

• Building Commissioning Association (BCxA)
• ASHRAE
• ACG - AABC Commissioning Group

Job Boards

Professional Networks

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: Can you describe a challenging commissioning project you managed and how you handled unexpected issues?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that demonstrate leadership, problem-solving abilities, and experience managing large-scale projects. They should explain how they coordinated with different teams, handled budget constraints, and maintained project schedules while ensuring quality.

Q: How do you develop a commissioning master plan for a complex facility?

Expected Answer: The candidate should explain their approach to planning, including how they assess project requirements, create testing schedules, coordinate with construction teams, and develop documentation processes. They should emphasize communication with stakeholders and risk management.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What documentation do you typically prepare during the commissioning process?

Expected Answer: They should mention creating test plans, checklists, reports, and operation manuals. Look for understanding of why proper documentation is important and how it helps facility operators maintain the building later.

Q: How do you ensure all building systems are working together properly?

Expected Answer: The answer should cover checking individual systems first, then testing how they work together, and verifying that everything meets the owner's requirements. They should mention coordination with different contractors and importance of thorough testing.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What are the basic steps in the commissioning process?

Expected Answer: They should describe the main phases: planning, design review, installation verification, system testing, and handover to the owner. Look for basic understanding of why each step matters.

Q: What types of systems typically need commissioning in a building?

Expected Answer: Look for familiarity with common building systems like heating, cooling, ventilation, lighting, and safety systems. They should understand that commissioning ensures these systems work both individually and together.