Commissioning Engineer

Job Purpose

The Commissioning Engineer – ELV Systems (Fire Alarm, Emergency / Exit Lighting / FLS) is responsible for planning, commissioning, testing, and handing over extra-low-voltage life-safety systems to ensure safe, compliant, and reliable operation. The role ensures all system installations meet design specifications, regulatory standards, and client requirements while coordinating with project teams, subcontractors, and vendors to deliver projects on time and to quality expectations.

Key Responsibilities

1. Commissioning & Testing

• Plan and execute site commissioning activities for fire alarm systems, emergency/exit lighting, and fire life safety (FLS) systems in accordance with project specifications and relevant codes.

• Develop and implement comprehensive test plans, FAT (Factory Acceptance Test) and SAT (Site Acceptance Test) procedures, and commissioning checklists.

• Perform functional tests, integration tests, and system diagnostics; record and report test results, defects, and corrective actions.

2. Installation Verification & Quality Assurance

• Inspect installation workmanship and verify compliance with design drawings, wiring schematics, and installation standards.

• Ensure cable integrity, terminations, labelling, and system topology are correct prior to energisation.

• Coordinate with site QA/QC teams to close non-conformances and maintain comprehensive commissioning records.

3. Coordination & Stakeholder Management

• Liaise with project managers, design engineers, electrical contractors, and third-party vendors to schedule commissioning activities and resolve technical issues.

• Provide technical guidance to installation teams and supervise subcontractor commissioning work when required.

• Attend progress meetings and provide regular commissioning status updates and risk mitigation actions.

4. Documentation & Handover

• Prepare and maintain commissioning documentation including test reports, punch lists, as-built drawings, O&M manuals, and configuration files.

• Ensure full system handover to client or operations team with necessary training, certificates, and compliance documentation.

• Maintain version control of technical documents and ensure all records meet company and regulatory requirements.

5. Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• Ensure systems meet applicable standards and regulations (e.g., local fire codes, EN/BS standards, and other relevant statutory requirements).

• Identify opportunities for improvements in commissioning procedures, testing methodologies, and installation practices.

• Keep up to date with industry best practice, product developments, and changes to standards affecting ELV life-safety systems.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Commissioning Completion Rate: Percentage of systems commissioned and handed over on schedule.

• First-time Pass Rate: Percentage of systems passing SAT with no major defects.

• Punch-list Closure Time: Average time to resolve commissioning defects and close punch-list items.

• Documentation Accuracy: Completeness and correctness of handover documentation and test reports.

• Compliance Record: Zero major non-compliances during inspections and audits.

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, or a related discipline, or equivalent technical qualification.

Experience

• 3–7 years’ experience commissioning, testing, or supervising installation of ELV life-safety systems such as fire alarm, emergency/exit lighting and FLS.

• Proven experience with site commissioning, FAT/SAT procedures, and system integration on medium to large projects.

• Experience working with contractors and multidisciplinary project teams on construction sites.

Technical Skills

• Sound knowledge of fire alarm systems, emergency lighting systems, detection devices, control panels, and notification appliances.

• Familiarity with wiring practices, circuit testing, relay logic, and basic networking for ELV systems.

• Knowledge of relevant UK and international standards (e.g., BS 5839, BS 5266, EN standards) and statutory requirements for fire safety systems.

• Proficiency in producing and interpreting as-built drawings, loop drawings, and system configuration documentation.

Soft Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

• Good communication and interpersonal skills to liaise with clients, contractors and internal teams.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities, work under pressure on site, and travel between project locations.

• Committed to safety, quality and delivering a professional service.

Desirable Qualifications & Certifications

• Professional certification in fire systems, commissioning, or electrical testing (desirable).

• Training or certification in fire risk assessment, emergency lighting design, or relevant product manufacturer courses.

• Experience with commissioning software tools and handheld testing instruments.

Working Conditions

• Site-based role with regular travel to project locations; may require occasional evening or weekend work to meet commissioning schedules.

• Use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and adherence to site safety procedures is mandatory.