NAES Corporation

Commissioning Manager

South Dakota, SD

On-site

Utilities

About This Job

Title: Commissioning Manager

Position Type: Contract

Location: South Dakota

Reports to: Project Director

Status: Exempt

Key Project Requirements:

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8+ years’ experience as a Commissioning Manager or Owner’s Representative, ideally with hands-on commissioning experience on Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) projects

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Experience or familiarity with Thermal Energy Storage (TES) systems or Thermal PAK technology is a plus.

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Proven ability to communicate effectively and professionally with owners, employees, and the public; capable of managing sensitive discussions with tact and maintaining strong client relationships.

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Proficiency in relevant computer systems and commissioning software, with the ability to document, track, and manage commissioning activities efficiently.

Job Summary:

PIC/NAES is seeking an experienced Commissioning Manager to oversee the commissioning phase of a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) project in South Dakota, incorporating Thermal PAK thermal energy storage as a key component of the system. The selected candidate will represent the owner during commissioning, ensuring that contractor activities—including environmental, health, and safety (EHS), schedule adherence, and cost control—are managed effectively. While direct TES experience is not required, familiarity with thermal storage technologies will be considered a strong asset as the project integrates innovative hybrid energy solutions.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

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Monitor and report on construction and commissioning progress to ensure alignment with the project schedule.

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Maintain accurate records of project status, issues, corrective actions, and change orders.

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Serve as the primary liaison between internal and external stakeholders—including EPC contractors, OEMs, utility representatives, and subcontractors—to ensure effective communication and timely issue resolution.

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Represent the Owner during cold and hot commissioning phases by leading meetings, tracking punch lists, coordinating schedules, and managing turnover documentation.

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Review vendor O&M manuals and commissioning plans; verify proper installation and perform pre-functional checks.

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Conduct interface testing on Battery Vaults, inverter systems, thermal modules (if applicable), substation protection systems, and auxiliary equipment.

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Coordinate system energization sequencing; verify functional testing and startup procedures.

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Monitor Battery Management System (BMS), Energy Management System (EMS), SCADA, and any TES controls to confirm integration and functionality.

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Confirm operational setpoints, alarm and trip logic, and overall hybrid system performance.

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Prepare or review reports on project progress, material usage, and costs, and recommend schedule adjustments as needed.

Job Requirements:

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Knowledge of electrical Balance of Plant (BOP) systems applicable to energy storage facilities, including auxiliary systems, protection schemes, and control infrastructure

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Expertise in managing both Client and Contractor/Subcontractor relationships.

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Strong understanding of energy storage system design and operating principles, including battery integration, inverters, EMS, SCADA, and thermal control systems (preferred)

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Solid foundation in commissioning principles including construction completion, pre-commissioning, verification, safety protocols, and performance testing.

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Thorough knowledge of OSHA and NFPA safety requirements including Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) and arc flash (NFPA 70E)

Physical Requirements:

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Ability to walk, reach, climb, stoop and lift (up to 50 lbs)

Education / Experience:

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8+ years’ experience as a Commissioning Manager with a focus on BESS projects; experience with Thermal Energy Storage (TES) or Thermal PAK systems is a plus.

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Experience with collaborative computer and web-based platforms for document control/transmittal, purchasing, accounting, and scheduling.

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Proficient with Microsoft Office Products (Access, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)

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