Commissioning Technician @ Actalent

Job Title: Commissioning Technician Rail Vehicle SystemsJob DescriptionThis role focuses on performing field modifications, installation verification, testing, commissioning, and troubleshooting of rail vehicle systems and associated equipment. The Commissioning Technician applies strong electrical and mechanical expertise to interpret technical documentation, execute system upgrades, and resolve complex issues in the field with minimal supervision while maintaining high standards of safety and quality.

Responsibilities

• Perform field modifications, retrofits, and upgrades on rail vehicles and related equipment in accordance with engineering documentation and requirements.
• Troubleshoot electrical systems ranging from 24VDC control circuits to 480VAC power systems, identifying faults and implementing effective repairs.
• Diagnose and repair mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electromechanical system issues to restore proper functionality.
• Read and interpret electrical schematics, wiring diagrams, mechanical drawings, installation instructions, and technical manuals to plan and execute work accurately.
• Verify proper installation and functionality of modified systems through structured testing and commissioning activities.
• Identify root causes of system failures and implement corrective actions in alignment with engineering and safety standards.
• Conduct system testing, inspections, and operational validation to ensure equipment meets defined performance, reliability, and safety criteria.
• Generate clear and accurate documentation of work performed, deficiencies identified, corrective actions taken, and commissioning results.
• Support startup, commissioning, warranty, and field service activities at customer sites, ensuring timely resolution of technical issues.
• Work independently with minimal technical guidance while maintaining high-quality workmanship and strict adherence to safety procedures.
• Execute field modifications and commissioning tests in a methodical manner, ensuring compliance with safety and quality requirements.
• Apply root cause analysis techniques to recurring issues and communicate findings to relevant stakeholders when needed.

Essential Skills

• Strong 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, mechanical drawings, technical manuals, and engineering change documentation.
• Demonstrated capability in performing field modifications and validating system functionality through testing and commissioning.
• Skilled 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 effectively, and solve complex technical problems with limited supervision.
• Strong attention to detail with a consistent commitment to safety and quality standards.
• Electrical troubleshooting proficiency for control and power systems.
• Mechanical troubleshooting proficiency for pneumatic, hydraulic, and electromechanical systems.
• Ability to interpret and apply technical documentation accurately during field work.
• Competence in root cause analysis and corrective action implementation.
• Experience in commissioning testing and field modification execution.
• Demonstrated adherence to safety and quality compliance in a field environment.

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 commissioning processes, including test planning, execution, and reporting.
• Exposure to software diagnostics tools used for fault identification and system performance verification.
• Comfort working with PLCs, control software, and communication networks in an industrial or transportation setting.

Work EnvironmentThis position is field-based and involves working on rail vehicles and associated equipment in operational and construction environments. The role requires frequent hands-on work with electrical systems from 24VDC to 480VAC, as well as mechanical, pneumatic, hydraulic, and electromechanical components. Commissioning Technicians use a range of electrical test equipment, including multimeters, clamp meters, insulation testers, and diagnostic tools, along with hand tools, power tools, and precision measuring instruments. Work is often performed at customer sites during startup, commissioning, warranty, and field service activities, which may include varying schedules and conditions typical of rail and industrial settings. The environment emphasizes strict adherence to safety procedures, high-quality workmanship, and thorough documentation of all tasks performed.

Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Seattle, WA.

Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $37.00 - $37.00/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)

Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Nov 25, 2026.

Workplace TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Seattle,WA.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 ClearlyRated 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 [email protected] 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.