Location
Belgium (Site-based)
Role Overview
We are seeking a Senior Commissioning Expert with extensive petrochemical start-up experience and a strong background in operational excellence to lead commissioning and start-up activities for a major facility in Belgium.
The successful candidate will be responsible for delivering a safe, efficient, and performance-focused transition from construction to operations. This role requires a senior professional with a proven record of optimizing plant performance, driving commissioning best practices, and embedding operational excellence principles throughout the start-up phase.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead end-to-end commissioning and start-up activities across process units, utilities, and offsite systems.
* Implement commissioning strategies aligned with operational excellence, reliability, and performance optimization.
* Ensure smooth transition from commissioning to steady-state operations.
* Drive best practices in safety, quality, efficiency, and continuous improvement.
* Coordinate with EPC contractors, operations teams, and project stakeholders.
* Develop and review commissioning procedures, test protocols, and system handover documentation.
* Identify and resolve technical issues to minimize start-up risks and delays.
* Promote a strong HSE culture and compliance with all regulatory requirements.
* Mentor and lead multidisciplinary commissioning teams.
* Monitor KPIs and performance metrics during start-up and stabilization phases.
* Support operational readiness and training of plant personnel.
Required Qualifications
* Degree in Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical, or Process Engineering (or equivalent industry experience).
* Demonstrated expertise in operational excellence frameworks (e.g., Lean, Six Sigma, reliability-centered operations, continuous improvement).
* Strong knowledge of international petrochemical safety and engineering standards.
Experience Requirements (Mandatory)
* Minimum 15+ years of commissioning and start-up experience in petrochemical or oil & gas facilities.
* Proven leadership in large-scale greenfield or brownfield plant start-ups.
* Demonstrated success in driving operational excellence and plant performance improvements.
* Extensive hands-on experience with process systems, utilities, and integrated control systems.
* Experience working in complex, multinational project environments.
* Prior European industrial project experience is advantageous.
Technical Skills
* Deep understanding of petrochemical processes and equipment.
* Advanced knowledge of commissioning methodologies and systemization.
* Experience with DCS/PLC systems and process automation.
* Strong troubleshooting and root cause analysis capabilities.
* Ability to interpret engineering documentation and P&IDs.
Leadership & Soft Skills
* Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
* Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
* Results-driven mindset focused on safety and operational performance.
* Ability to work effectively under start-up pressures and tight timelines.
* Fluent in English; French or Dutch is an advantage.