Power Plant Commissioning Lead

About xAI

xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All engineers are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

About the Role

The Power Plant Commissioning Lead will oversee the commissioning and startup of a behind-the-meter simple cycle power generation facility featuring aeroderivative gas turbines (LM6000-class) and an integrated Reverse Osmosis/Electrodeionization (RO/EDI) water treatment system. This role emphasizes fast-track execution typical of aeroderivative plants, ensuring safe, efficient testing, verification, and handover of all systems—including turbine packages, balance of plant (BOP), electrical systems, controls, and high-purity water production for NOx control or power augmentation. The successful candidate will lead a multidisciplinary team to deliver the plant on schedule, within budget, and in full compliance with safety, environmental, and performance standards. 

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commissioning plans : site-specific plans, procedures, schedules, and manuals tailored to aeroderivative gas turbine simple cycle configurations and RO/EDI water treatment systems. 
• Lead pre-commissioning activities: including system inspections, flushing, drying, functional testing, energization, and vendor coordination for modular turbine packages.
• Supervise commissioning of aeroderivative gas turbine systems: first fire, synchronization, reliability runs, fast-start testing (typically 5-10 minute ramp), emissions tuning, and performance verification. 
• Oversee commissioning of the RO/EDI water treatment plant: membrane testing, chemical cleaning, startup sequencing, conductivity/resistivity verification, and integration for demineralized water supply (e.g., power augmentation spray intercooling, NOx water injection, or auxiliary needs). 
• Manage BOP systems commissioning: including fuel gas, lube oil, cooling air/water, inlet/evaporative cooling (if present), fire protection, and high-voltage electrical distribution. 
• Coordinate with OEM representatives, subcontractors, and vendors: for specialized tasks such as borescope inspections, controls tuning, and modular package integration. 
• Ensure rigorous adherence to HSE protocols: including LOTO, risk assessments, permit-to-work, and environmental compliance (e.g., emissions limits, wastewater handling). 
• Interface with construction, operations, clients, and regulators: to resolve punch list items, track progress, and facilitate plant handover. 
• Troubleshoot issues during testing/startup: ensuring systems meet design specs, contractual guarantees (power output, heat rate, ramp rates). 
• Prepare commissioning reports: lessons learned, turnover documentation, and support operations training.
• Monitor schedule adherence : capitalizing on the rapid installation advantages of aeroderivative modular packages.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, or Chemical Engineering; professional certifications (e.g., PE) or OEM-specific training preferred. 
• 8+ years of power plant commissioning experience, with at least 5 years in leadership roles on aeroderivative gas turbine projects. 
• Proven hands-on experience commissioning LM6000-class (or equivalent aeroderivative) gas turbines in simple cycle applications. 
• Specific knowledge of RO/EDI systems for power plant water treatment, including ultrapure water production and integration with turbine auxiliaries. 
• Familiarity with fast-start capabilities, water/steam injection systems, modular packaging, and modern turbine control systems. 
• Strong expertise in safety management, project scheduling (e.g., Primavera/MS Project), and relevant standards (ASME, IEEE, EPA emissions). ● Skills : Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills; experience managing teams in dynamic, high-pressure site environments. 
• Willingness for extensive travel and prolonged on-site assignments (e.g., 6-12 months), including shift work during startup phases.
• Proficiency in English; additional languages advantageous for global projects.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with advanced aeroderivative configurations (e.g., higher output packages or hydrogen-capable systems). 
• Knowledge of continuous emissions monitoring (NOx, CO). 
• Background in water chemistry, membrane systems, and EDI polishing for high-resistivity water. 
• Strong stakeholder management for resolving conflicts and ensuring contractual compliance.

xAI is an equal opportunity employer.

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