Commissioning Manager

THE TEAM Join the Engineering team at JSM Group Services Ltd., a leading provider of integrated utility infrastructure solutions. Our combination of end-to-end technical expertise, decades of industry experience, and unlimited fresh thinking makes us a trusted partner for the implementation of next-generation connectivity in energy and communications. Our focus is on building for tomorrow by delivering every day for customers right across the UK, Europe and beyond. JSM Group envisions a workplace where we are not only the leading force in the utility sector in the UK, but also a beacon of exemplary workplace culture and social responsibility SCOPE OF ROLE We are seeking an experienced Commissioning Manager to take operational ownership of the commissioning process of extra-high-voltage substations and associated underground cable circuits from 11kV to 400kV. This role ensures all commissioning works are executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with relevant standards, client specifications, and programme requirements, delivering systems ready for energisation and final handover. The Commissioning Manager acts as the technical authority and single point of accountability for commissioning across multiple projects in the Data Centre, Renewable and Industrial & Commercial new connections and infrastructure energy markets within the UK. Sitting within the Engineering team as part of the wider Operations department, and reporting to the Engineering Director, this role is accountable for excellence across safety, quality, programme, cost and client satisfaction, while leading a team of commissioning engineers. Engineering Leadership & Commissioning Delivery • Lead and manage all commissioning activities across multiple new connections or infrastructure projects, from design development through to construction and final handover. • Provide senior technical authority across all commissioning matters (up to 400kV), acting as the primary point of contact for internal teams and external stakeholders. • Define commissioning strategy for 11kV to 400kV projects, from design through to final commissioning, ensuring alignment with JSM engineering policies & procedures. • Develop commissioning plans and methodologies that align with project requirements and integrate commissioning activities into the overall project programme. • Facilitate FAT & SAT attendance and ensure commissioning inputs are incorporated into project deliverables. • In conjunction with the Engineering Standards team, define and maintain engineering standards, processes, and assurance frameworks across the business. • Troubleshoot and resolve issues discovered during commissioning activities and prepare technical reports and documentation for internal and external stakeholders. People Leadership & Stakeholder Management • Lead, manage, and mentor a team of Commissioning Engineers, including setting objectives, managing performance, and the creation of structured development pathways. • Oversee subcontractor and supply chain performance, ensuring delivery quality, commercial compliance and safety standards. • Interface with project management, design teams, and construction teams to ensure an integrated delivery. • Build trusted relationships with our clients, resolve escalations and drive positive customer satisfaction. • Represent JSM at client meetings, industry working groups and support trade exhibition events. Safety & Compliance • Ensure commissioning teams adhere to JSM SHEQ procedures, the Distribution Safety Rules and CDM regulations. • Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. • Ensure appropriate resource planning, structure, and capability are in place to meet business needs. Commercial & Tendering • Provide technical input into bids and tenders, ensuring commissioning methodologies and programmes support a competitive and commercially sound tender submission. HOW YOU`LL SUCCEED ✔ Create a culture of accountability – define clear commissioning standards, set expectations for internal teams and subcontractors, and ensure consistent outcomes across engineering, commercial, SHEQ and delivery. ✔ Set technical direction and provide engineering authority – establish HV commissioning standards (11kV–400kV), guide engineering decision-making, and advance the business’s technical capability in line with industry expectations. ✔ Build strategic relationships and shape the organisational narrative – maintain strong relationships with clients, network operators, regulators and internal leaders, and represent JSM externally with confidence and clarity. ✔ Lead leaders and build a high-performing commissioning team – develop successors, coach junior engineers, and build a team that is engaged, capable and accountable for delivery outcomes. ✔ Champion safety culture across the business area – model safety leadership, ensure compliance with JSM SHEQ values, CDM regulations and the Distribution Safety Rules, and drive continuous improvement in safety behaviours. ✔ Lead change, innovation and continuous improvement – identify opportunities to improve efficiency, reduce cost and enhance delivery outcomes, keeping the business area ahead of industry standards and technology adoption. WHAT IT TAKES Essential ✔ Proven leadership of commissioning engineers for either a DNO/TSO or ICP in the UK. ✔ Extensive experience as a Senior Authorised Person or Commissioning Engineer from 11kV up to 132kV (400kV desirable) in the UK, minimum 5 years. ✔ Deep technical knowledge of HV plant and switchgear, substation design, cable systems, civil engineering, and protection & control. ✔ A strong understanding of the UK Distribution Safety Rules. ✔ Strong understanding of the DNO G81 technical standards, along with the requirements of the NERS scheme and other statutory bodies. ✔ Experience supporting tendering, estimation, and work-winning activities. ✔ Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex data and identify root causes. ✔ Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across departments and present confidently. ✔ Demonstrable track record of self-motivation and inspiring change in an evolving industry. ✔ Flexible and pragmatic approach, able to work independently while also being a team player. ✔ Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to site as required. Qualifications ✔ A minimum of HNC in Electrical or Civil Engineering (or equivalent). Desirable ✔ Transmission connected project experience (400kV). ✔ Ability to interpret and apply engineering standards across a vast portfolio of projects. WHAT WE OFFER YOU We truly value your work, time, and skills! In return, we will offer you a competitive salary and some additional benefits to support your professional growth, including: Participation in mentoring and coaching programmes 28 days of holiday (excluding bank holidays) 2 paid volunteering days a year Hybrid working pattern Continuous training and development, in both technical and business skills Equal Opportunity Statement JSM Group Services Ltd. is an equal opportunities employer and does not discriminate on the grounds of gender, sexual orientation, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, gender reassignment, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, disability or age. Our ethos is to respect and value people’s differences and to help everyone achieve more at work as well as in their personal lives so that they feel proud of the part they play in our success. We believe that all decisions about people at work should be based on the individual’s abilities, skills, performance and behaviour and our business requirements. JSM Group operates a zero-tolerance policy to any form of discrimination, abuse or harassment.