Commissioning Lead

Startup & Commissioning Manager - Gas Major Projects

Job Summary

The Startup & Commissioning Manager is responsible for the planning, execution, optimization, and verification of startup and commissioning activities for largescale gas infrastructure projects within the Gas Major Projects organization. Typical project assignments include Point of Delivery (POD) stations, District Regulator Stations, Gas Measurement Buildings, and SCADA systems.

This role serves as the central point of coordination for all startup and commissioning functions, ensuring work is executed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with company standards, regulatory requirements, and project objectives. The position provides onsite leadership, oversees contractors and internal staff, and ensures seamless coordination among engineering, construction, operations, and OEM partners.

This position reports to the Senior Director/Director, Startup & Commissioning.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Oversight

Provide overall leadership and oversight for startup and commissioning activities on Gas Major Projects.

Serve as the primary point of contact for startup and commissioning, coordinating efforts across contractors, project teams, and internal stakeholders.

Direct and lead startup staff in collaboration with OEMs, Project Engineers, Project Managers, Inspection Services, System Operations, and GM&T personnel.

Demonstrate full accountability for assigned projects, decisions, and outcomes.

Safety & Compliance

Champion a strong safety culture aligned with the Core 4 Responsibilities and the NiSource Health and Safety Manual.

Ensure all startup and commissioning activities are performed with a goal of zero incidents.

Inspect work to verify compliance with safety, environmental, and regulatory requirements, including permits, specifications, and drawings.

Proactively manage and resolve site conflicts or disputes to maintain safe and productive operations.

Project Execution

Plan, manage, and execute startup and commissioning activities to meet project safety, scope, schedule, and budget targets.

Participate in 30/60/90 percent project review meetings and provide technical input on startup readiness.

Develop, manage, and track startup budgets and schedules in coordination with the Director and project leadership.

Identify startup and commissioning issues early, implement corrective action plans, and monitor issues through resolution.

Ensure startup planning and execution are consistent with approved project plans and contractual requirements.

Process Improvement & Training

Identify opportunities to improve startup and commissioning processes and support the development or revision of procedures.

Provide training and guidance on startup and commissioning processes to Gas Major Projects and System Operations/GM&T personnel.

Optimize contractor performance by providing clear direction, expectations, and coordination. Required Qualifications

Education & Experience

Bachelor's degree in an ABETaccredited Engineering or Technical discipline or equivalent job knowledge and experience.

Minimum of 2 years of field experience directly related to startup and commissioning activities or 6+ years of experience in one or more of the following areas:

Measurement and Regulation

Engineering

Project Management

Technical & Professional Skills

Advanced knowledge of startup and commissioning methodologies.

Strong understanding of safety, compliance, and regulatory requirements.

Proven ability to manage scope, schedule, and budget within complex projects.

High level of proficiency coordinating work safely, efficiently, and costeffectively.

Demonstrated ability to evaluate team capabilities and align skill sets to project needs.

Leadership & Behavioral Competencies

Confident leader with the ability to guide teams and projects to successful outcomes.

Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with diverse stakeholder groups.

Strong strategic thinking, planning, risk assessment, and prioritization capabilities.

Effective conflict management skills with a focus on doing the "right thing" for the business.

Willingness to address difficult issues, challenge differing opinions constructively, and manage performance concerns.

Demonstrates energy, resilience, decisiveness, and accountability in the face of challenges.

Actively seeks input from subject matter experts and validates information before making decisions.

Commitment to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful work environment that values differing perspectives.

Additional Requirements

Willingness and ability to work extended hours as required to meet project and outage schedules.

As a public utility, NiSource is required to provide continuous service to customers at all times. To ensure we fulfill that obligation, employees may be required to work outside their normal work hours and perform tasks outside of their normal responsibilities in support of emergency operations.

Work Authorization

Authorized to work in the United States without requiring sponsorship.

Workplace Connection

Value inclusion within your day to day responsibilities by respecting others perspectives/convictions, engaging others opinions, creating a safe environment where people, ideas, and opinions are valued within your Team/Customers and external partners.

Respect the unique lived experiences within your Team/Customers and external work partners by valuing different world views, challenges, and cultures that represents all walks of life and all backgrounds.

Treat others with respect and consideration. Actively participate in creating and contributing to a positive work environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

NiSource is committed to providing equal employment opportunities in each of its companies to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, veteran status, disability, gender, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex (including pregnancy, lactation, childbirth or related medical conditions), genetic information, citizenship status, or any protected group status as defined by law. Each employee is expected to abide by this principle.

By applying, you may be considered for other job opportunities.

ADA Accommodations

If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process or to perform the essential functions of the position, please contact OneHR at

Safety Statement

Promote a safe work environment by actively participating in all aspects of our employee safety program. Report any unsafe conditions and take actions to prevent personal injuries. Support our interdependent safety culture by ensuring the safety of your co-workers. Stay focused on the task at hand and promote productivity through good work habits.

E-Verify

NiSourceparticipates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security's E-Verify program. As part of this process, we provide the following notices to all job applicants: These documents inform you of your rights and responsibilities under U.S. law. You can view or download them using the links below:

E-Verify Poster(English and Spanish) E-Verify Participation Poster English and Spanish

Right to Work Poster(English and Spanish) If you have the right to work, don't let anyone take it away

Salary Range*: $113,500.00 - $170,300.00

*The salary offered to a candidate is based on several factors including but not limited to the candidate's skills, job-related knowledge, and relevant experience, as well as internal pay equity.

Posting Start Date: 2026-04-13

Posting End Date (if applicable): 2026-04-20Please note that the job posting will close on the day before the posting end date.