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Commissioning Manager
In this role you will lead the commissioning phase of a large-scale photovoltaic (PV) plant in Alentejo. The ideal candidate will have strong technical and managerial skills, experience working with Portuguese public authorities / administration, fluency in both English and Portuguese, and a track record of delivering successful PV plant projects. You will ensure that all systems are tested, performance guarantees met, regulatory requirements fulfilled, and handover completed to the client or operations team.
Tasks & Responsibilities:
- Plan, manage and execute all aspects of the commissioning process of the PV plant: design verification, installation oversight, testing, performance validation, system integration, and handover.
- Coordinate with contractors, EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) partners, equipment suppliers, and internal teams to ensure all components (inverters, modules, converters, SCADA, grid connection, protection systems, etc.) are correctly commissioned.
- Prepare and review commissioning plans, protocols, test procedures, checklists and quality standards, ensuring compliance with international & local (Portuguese) regulations, grid codes, safety and environmental requirements.
- Interface with public administration / permitting bodies, utility companies, regulators, and local authorities to secure necessary approvals, permits, inspections and certifications.
- Monitor schedule, cost, risk and quality during commissioning; anticipate issues and implement corrective actions.
- Ensure documentation is properly prepared: commissioning reports, test records, as-builts, regulatory compliance documentation.
- Guarantee that plant performance meets contractual performance metrics (e.g. yield, availability, efficiency, degradation).
- Lead and mentor commissioning and site teams; promote safety, quality and good practices on site.
- Ensure health, safety and environmental policies are strictly followed.
- University degree in Electrical Engineering, Renewable Energy, Mechanical Engineering or related field.
- Relevant experience in commissioning utility-scale PV plants (or large-scale solar/similar renewable generation).
- Demonstrable experience liaising with public administration and regulatory agencies (in Portugal is a high plus): permits, grid interconnection, inspections, environmental authorities, etc.
- Strong knowledge of PV plant components, site commissioning procedures, grid codes, performance testing, SCADA, safety legislation.
- Excellent project management skills: scheduling, budgeting, risk management.
- Fluency in Portuguese and English (verbal & written). Additional languages are a plus.
- Ability to start immediately or very soon; willingness to spend time on site in Alentejo, plus travel as needed.
Contract type: Freelance/Self-Employed
Duration: ASAP - 1 year contract (highly-likely to be extended)
Questions candidates ask before applying
This depends on the role and the client, but on average our process takes 2–4 weeks from first contact to offer. We keep you informed at every step.
We specialize in roles across the renewable energy sector, including positions in solar, wind (onshore & offshore), green hydrogen, energy storage, grid infrastructure, and sustainability. We recruit for technical, commercial, and project management roles at all levels.
There are multiple ways to apply for a position with us. If you wish to apply directly to a specific job, please visit the job listing and use the "Apply" button to submit your application. Alternatively, if you are interested in an open application or exploring potential opportunities, you can fill out our online form.
We are open to discussing various commercial arrangements depending on the volume and nature of the collaboration. Contact us for a tailored proposal.
Our fees are charged to the hiring company and are based on a percentage of the candidate's annual salary. We discuss this transparently during the intake. There are no costs for candidates.
Yes! You can submit an open application via our website. We'll keep your profile on file and reach out as soon as a suitable opportunity arises.
We conduct thorough interviews to assess both technical competencies and cultural fit. We have an extensive network in the renewable energy sector, which allows us to find both active and passive candidates.
Our process consists of several steps: (1) Intake with the client to understand the role, team, and culture, (2) Active sourcing and screening of candidates, (3) Presentation of a shortlist, (4) Interview coordination, (5) Offer and onboarding support.
We are a passionate, driven team that genuinely believes in the energy transition. We combine a personal approach with deep sector knowledge, and we're committed to making a real impact — for candidates, clients, and the planet.
We cover the full spectrum of renewables: solar PV, onshore and offshore wind, green hydrogen, energy storage, EV infrastructure, and broader sustainability roles. We work with developers, EPCs, OEMs, and utilities.
We ARE Renewables is headquartered in Rotterdam, the Netherlands — one of Europe's key hubs for the energy transition. We operate across Europe and connect renewable energy talent with leading organizations in the sector.
Yes, we recruit both permanent employees and freelance/interim professionals, depending on your project needs.
Depending on the role, we typically present the first shortlist within 1–2 weeks. For specialized or hard-to-fill positions, we set realistic timelines upfront.
We live and breathe renewable energy. Our consultants have a deep understanding of the sector — from the technical landscape to the energy transition trends shaping the industry. We don't just match CVs, we match ambitions.
You can reach out via our contact form or call us directly. We'll schedule an intake to understand your needs and immediately start the search for the right candidates.
Absolutely. We guide you through the entire process, from CV advice to interview tips and salary negotiation support.
Yes, our recruitment services are completely free for candidates. We are paid by the hiring companies, so there are no costs for you at any stage of the process.