ENGINEER, TESTING & COMMI. - AC

Role Overview

The Testing and Commissioning Specialist (PMC) serves as the client’s technical authority, ensuring the meticulous execution of testing, pre-commissioning, and commissioning activities for pipeline and reservoir systems. This critical role is pivotal in validating the integrity, functionality, and compliance of mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, control, and civil systems in alignment with project specifications, NWC/EXPRO standards, Saudi regulatory requirements, and international best practices. By acting as the client’s representative within the PMC team, the Engineer, Testing & Commissioning ensures that all systems are rigorously tested, validated, and commissioned to meet contractual, safety, and operational benchmarks.

Key Responsibilities

The Engineer, Testing & Commissioning is entrusted with the following core responsibilities:

• Commissioning Strategy & Planning:
  • Review and approve the EPC contractor’s testing and commissioning plans, method statements, and schedules to ensure alignment with project milestones and contractual obligations.
  • Develop and integrate commissioning strategies into the PMC master schedule, identifying critical activities and dependencies to facilitate seamless execution.
  • Ensure commissioning plans adhere to operational readiness requirements and client-specific O&M protocols.
• Execution Oversight:
  • Witness and verify functional testing, pre-commissioning, and commissioning activities across pipelines, reservoirs, pumping stations, and associated systems.
  • Oversee hydrostatic and pressure testing of pipelines, performance validation of equipment, and integrated system testing to confirm operational reliability.
  • Monitor contractor adherence to HSE protocols during high-risk commissioning activities, ensuring a safe working environment.
• Compliance & Assurance:
  • Validate all commissioning works against RCRC/NWC/EXPRO standards, Saudi regulations, and international codes (ASME, API, AWWA, IEC, ISO).
  • Review and approve test procedures, acceptance criteria, and results to ensure compliance with contract specifications and regulatory mandates.
  • Address and resolve non-conformances identified during testing to prevent delays in system handover.
• Contractor & Stakeholder Coordination:
  • Collaborate closely with the EPC contractor’s commissioning team to coordinate site activities, resolve technical challenges, and mitigate risks.
  • Liaise with PMC engineers, QA/QC, HSE, and planning teams to ensure seamless integration of commissioning with construction close-out activities.
  • Engage with client representatives (NWC, EXPRO) to confirm achievement of commissioning milestones and secure their approval.
• Documentation & Handover:
  • Review and confirm commissioning documentation, including test certificates, inspection reports, punch lists, and O&M manuals, to ensure completeness and accuracy.
  • Verify the precision of as-built records and system operating documentation for long-term operational integrity.
  • Support the preparation of final commissioning dossiers to facilitate client acceptance and operational readiness.
• Risk & Issue Management:
  • Proactively identify risks related to system readiness, safety, or performance during the commissioning phase.
  • Develop and implement mitigation strategies to address potential delays or non-compliance issues, ensuring timely resolution.

Professional Qualifications & Experience

The ideal candidate for the Engineer, Testing & Commissioning role will possess the following qualifications and experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Instrumentation, or Civil Engineering, or a related field.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in testing, pre-commissioning, and commissioning of pipeline, reservoir, or similar systems within the oil, gas, or water sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of international codes and standards, including ASME, API, AWWA, IEC, and ISO, as well as regional regulatory requirements.
• Proven expertise in reviewing and approving commissioning plans, method statements, and test procedures.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams and client stakeholders.
• Certification in HSE management and a track record of ensuring compliance with safety protocols during high-risk activities.
• Familiarity with Saudi regulatory frameworks and client-specific standards (NWC/EXPRO) is highly desirable.

Key Competencies

The Engineer, Testing & Commissioning must demonstrate the following competencies to excel in this role:

• Technical Proficiency: A deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, instrumentation, and civil systems, coupled with hands-on experience in commissioning processes.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous review of documentation, test results, and system performance to ensure compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and resolve technical challenges or non-conformances efficiently to prevent project delays.
• Stakeholder Management: Strong interpersonal skills to liaise with contractors, client representatives, and internal teams, fostering collaborative problem-solving.
• Compliance Focus: Commitment to upholding the highest standards of quality, safety, and regulatory compliance throughout the commissioning process.

Impact & Outcomes

The Engineer, Testing & Commissioning plays a pivotal role in ensuring the successful delivery of the project by:

• Validating the operational integrity and reliability of pipeline and reservoir systems.
• Ensuring all systems meet contractual, regulatory, and safety requirements for long-term operation.
• Facilitating a seamless transition from construction to operational phase, aligning with client O&M requirements.
• Safeguarding the project’s successful delivery, operational excellence, and long-term reliability.