Commissioning Technician

Job Description: The Commissioning Technician performs field modifications, installation verification, testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of rail vehicle systems and associated equipment. This role requires strong electrical and mechanical expertise, the ability to interpret technical documentation, and the capability to execute complex modifications and resolve issues with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

Responsibilities: Perform field modifications, retrofits, and upgrades on rail vehicles and related equipment. Troubleshoot electrical systems ranging from 24VDC control circuits to 480VAC power systems. Diagnose and repair mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electromechanical system issues. Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, and installation instructions. Verify proper installation and functionality of modified systems through testing and commissioning activities. Identify root causes of failures and implement corrective actions in accordance with engineering requirements. Conduct system testing, inspections, and operational validation to ensure equipment meets performance and safety standards. Generate clear documentation of work performed, deficiencies identified, corrective actions taken, and commissioning results. Support startup, commissioning, warranty, and field service activities at customer sites. Work independently with minimal technical guidance while maintaining high-quality workmanship and strict adherence to safety procedures. Execute field modifications in alignment with engineering change documentation and technical requirements. Apply software-assisted diagnostics and fault analysis where applicable to support commissioning and troubleshooting activities. Essential SkillsStrong working knowledge of electrical systems from 24VDC through 480VAC.Proven troubleshooting experience involving electrical, mechanical, and electromechanical systems. Ability to read and understand electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, technical manuals, and engineering documentation. Ability to perform field modifications and validate system functionality based on engineering requirements. Skilled in the use of electrical test equipment including multimeters, clamp meters, insulation testers, and related diagnostic tools. Mechanical aptitude with experience using hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring equipment. Ability to work independently, prioritize tasks, and solve complex technical problems with limited guidance. Strong attention to detail and commitment to safety and quality standards. Electrical troubleshooting capability across control and power circuits. Mechanical troubleshooting capability for complex assemblies and systems. Ability to interpret and apply technical documentation in the field. Competence in root cause analysis and structured problem solving. Experience performing commissioning testing and verification of system performance. Consistent adherence to safety and quality compliance requirements.

Additional Skills & Qualifications: Experience commissioning rail vehicles, transit systems, industrial equipment, or other complex electromechanical systems. Ability to perform software-assisted diagnostics and fault analysis. Familiarity with CAN communication networks, PLC controls, or vehicle control systems. Previous field service or startup and commissioning experience in a customer-facing environment. Experience with software diagnostics tools used in rail or industrial control applications. Comfort working in dynamic field environments where priorities and tasks can change rapidly.

Work Environment: This role is primarily field-based and involves working on rail vehicles and associated equipment in operational and commissioning environments. The Commissioning Technician works with a range of electrical and mechanical systems, using diagnostic tools such as multimeters, clamp meters, insulation testers, hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments. The work may take place in rail yards, workshops, or customer facilities, requiring strict adherence to safety procedures and quality standards. The environment can be fast-paced and hands-on, with frequent interaction with customer personnel during startup, commissioning, warranty, and field service activities. Technicians are expected to maintain professional conduct, follow site safety rules, and wear appropriate protective equipment as required by the facility.

Job Type & Location: This is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.

Pay and Benefits: The pay range for this position is $28.00 - $30.00/hr. Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: Medical, dental & vision Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital 401(k) Retirement Plan Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) Short and long-term disability Health Spending Account (HSA) Transportation benefits Employee Assistance Program Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave) Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Seattle, WA.Application Deadline This position is anticipated to close on Oct 19, 2026.About Actalent Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a Clearly Rated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service. The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law. If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options. San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records. Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability. Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.