Commissioning Specialist

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

Job Summary Reporting to the Assistant Vice President for Facilities Operations & Services, the Facilities Commissioning Specialist provides expertise and oversight for the system commissioning and on-going operational performance of Caltech critical infrastructure and automation systems This position is responsible for planning, executing, and overseeing Caltech's commissioning processes and recommissioning activities for complex research, academic, and support facilities across the campus.

This role ensures that building systems, particularly laboratory, life-safety, and mission-critical infrastructure perform as intended, support research continuity, meet regulatory requirements, and align with institutional standards for safety, energy efficiency, and reliability. The position works closely with Facilities Operations, Planning Design and Construction, Environmental Health & Safety (EH&S), researchers, design teams, and external commissioning providers to ensure seamless turnover from construction to operations and optimized performance throughout the facility lifecycle.

Essential

Job Duties Commissioning & Technical Oversight:
Plan, manage, and oversee commissioning, retro-commissioning, and recommissioning activities for existing campus facilities Provide oversite and review of the commissioning plan, for new construction Develop and review the Caltech commissioning guide and standards. Develop and review commissioning plans, scripts, functional tests, and commissioning reports. Capital Projects & Design Coordination:
Provide commissioning input during planning, design, and construction phases. Review design documents and participate in design and construction meetings. Coordinate with contractors, consultants, and third-party commissioning agents. Transition to Operations:
Support system turnover, review O&M documentation, and facilitate facilities staff training. Verify system readiness prior to occupancy or research startup. Existing Building Performance:
Analyze system performance and trending data to identify optimization opportunities. Support sustainability, energy efficiency, and decarbonization initiatives. Compliance & Safety:
Ensure commissioned systems meet applicable codes, standards, and campus requirements. Support EH&S and research safety protocols. Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in engineering, architecture, facilities management, or a related discipline, or equivalent work experience. Eight or more years of experience in building commissioning, facilities engineering, or construction management. Demonstrated knowledge of HVAC, laboratory ventilation, and building automation systems. Ability to effectively read and interpret construction documents and control sequences.

Proven systems thinking and technical problem-solving abilities. Ability to work cross-functionally and collaborate with key internal and external stakeholders. Demonstrates sharp attention to detail with a strong safety focus. Proven project management and documentation skills. Excellent written, verbal, and coordination skills. Must be able to work occurs in office, mechanical rooms, rooftops, and active construction environments. Occasional after-hours or weekend work may be required for testing and research support activities.

Ability to lift and carry up to 25lbs on a consistent basis and ability to access confined spaces and traverse campus facilities safely.

Preferred Qualifications Certified Commissioning Professional (CCP), Building Commissioning Professional (BCxP), or similar credential. Professional Engineer (PE) or Certified Energy Manager (CEM).

Experience with laboratory, healthcare, or research campus environments. Familiarity with central utility plants or district energy systems. Required Documents Resume.