Senior Mechanical Commissioning Specialist - Data Centers (L4/L5)

Job Title: Senior Mechanical Commissioning Specialist – Data Centers (L4/L5)

Location: Arlington, VA / Washington, DC Metro Area (Travel Required Nationwide)

Job Type: Contract, W-2

Duration: 12 Months

Pay Rate: $70–$80/hour

Travel: Up to 95%

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Commissioning Specialist to support large-scale data center commissioning projects. This role will focus on mechanical systems testing, quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC), equipment startup, and functional performance testing to ensure systems operate safely, efficiently, and in accordance with design specifications.

The ideal candidate will have extensive mechanical commissioning experience, including hands-on involvement in data center commissioning at Levels 2 and 3, along with leading Level 4 and Level 5 testing. This individual will work closely with clients, construction teams, contractors, and project stakeholders to deliver reliable, high-performance mission-critical facilities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and execute mechanical commissioning activities for data center projects.
• Perform quality assurance, quality control, equipment startup, and functional performance testing.
• Lead Level 4 and Level 5 commissioning activities while overseeing and supporting Level 0–Level 3 activities.
• Review and document commissioning procedures, test results, deficiencies, and corrective actions.
• Commission mechanical systems, HVAC, plumbing, building automation systems, controls, and related facility infrastructure.
• Coordinate with construction teams, contractors, owners, and other project stakeholders to resolve technical issues.
• Verify system performance against design specifications, applicable codes, and operational requirements.
• Support safe system startup, operational readiness, and commissioning closeout activities.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in mechanical commissioning, building systems, facility infrastructure, or related disciplines.
• 2–3 years of focused data center commissioning experience, including documenting Level 2/Level 3 activities and leading Level 4/Level 5 testing.
• Experience with HVAC, mechanical systems, plumbing, building automation systems, controls, and facility operations.
• Working knowledge of ASHRAE, NFPA, and mechanical testing and balancing (TAB) requirements.
• Understanding of construction processes and commissioning documentation.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to pass a background check.
• Willingness to travel up to 95%.

Preferred Qualifications

• Recognized commissioning certification.
• AWS or equivalent Level 4 commissioning lead certification.
• Infrared (IR) thermography Level 1 or Level 2 certification and practical experience.
• NFPA 70E certification.
• OSHA 10 certification or OSHA 30 preferred.
• Experience commissioning mission-critical facilities, particularly large-scale data centers.
• Candidates based in the Washington, DC or Northern Virginia area are preferred.

Ideal Candidate Background

Senior Mechanical Commissioning Specialist, Data Center Commissioning Engineer, Mechanical Commissioning Engineer, Commissioning Authority (CxA), or Mechanical Commissioning Lead with hands-on experience leading L4/L5 testing in mission-critical environments.