Startup and Commissioning Specialist

Founded in 1994, OBR is a provider of mission-critical cooling technology services, including repair and rebuild, inspection, maintenance, and related field services across the United States. Headquartered in Northwood, Ohio, with more than 400+ employees, OBR serves a number of end markets through 12 offices, including semiconductor, water and wastewater, food and agriculture, power generation, commercial, healthcare, petrochemical, refinery, and data centers, among others. Backed by an experienced engineering team and deep expertise in the cooling technology space, OBR helps customers improve reliability, performance, and long-term system life.

The Startup and Commissioning Specialist will be responsible for planning, executing and documenting the commissioning and startup activities for new or upgraded industrial equipment. This role ensures that all systems are installed correctly, tested thoroughly and efficiently transitioned from construction to customer operations.

The ideal candidate possesses strong technical knowledge, hands-on experience and a proactive, solution-oriented mindset. The Startup and Commissioning Specialist will travel to OBR customer sites (data centers, refineries, power plants, steel mills, paper mills, etc.) to provide on-site startup and commissioning activities to include but not limited to data collection, troubleshooting, general cooling tower inspections and mechanical adjustments.

The successful candidate will be expected to travel approximately 80% of the time.

Roles/Tasks of the position:

• Plan, coordinate, and perform startup activities for new or upgraded equipment, ensuring that all systems are properly integrated and calibrated.
• Perform general VFD setup and programing providing lockout of undesirable frequencies based on vibration analysis.  
• Perform baseline vibration data collection during cooling tower start-ups.
• Collaborate with the controls and automation team to ensure proper integration of vibration monitoring systems with control systems.
• Identify and resolve technical issues that arise during startup and commissioning phases.
• Maintain detailed commissioning documentation, including test results, punch lists, and turnover packages.
• Provide training and technical support to operations and maintenance teams.
• Support continuous improvement of commissioning processes and best practices.
• Configure, calibrate, and troubleshoot vibration sensors, accelerometers and other diagnostic tools integrated into the control systems.
• Perform cooling tower inspections of both internal and external components verify installation quality, conduct functional and performance testing, and ensure readiness for operation.
• Enter confined spaces and climb structures to inspect, collect data, take photographs, and prepare technical reports to communicate findings to customers and internal teams.
• Develop technical reports to communicate findings and recommendations identified during on-site data collection.
• Ensure all company and client safety policies, procedures, standards, etc., are adhered to throughout each project.
• Submit expense reports for all company expenses.
• Perform other duties as directed by OBR Supervisor.

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Applied Sciences or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Strong technical knowledge and hands-on field experience analyzing, diagnosing, and mitigating electrical, control, and mechanical related issues with industrial equipment.
• Working knowledge of vibration analysis and mechanical maintenance best practices.
• Familiarity with control systems, including VFDs, PLCs and related automation tools.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills; proficiency with computer-based reporting tools.
• Good organizational skills.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Project.
• Self-starter with willingness to learn and contribute.
• Willingness to travel up to 80% of the time.

Physical Demands

The following physical demands are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities or medical restrictions.

• Work in both office and industrial field environments, including hot and humid conditions.
• Short‑term work in industrial facilities such as data centers, refineries, power plants, steel mills, and paper mills.
• Work safely at heights, including climbing structures and using fall‑protection equipment.
• Use basic hand tools (e.g., hammer, wrenches, measuring tape).
• Measure and collect data in and around cooling towers.
• Lift up to 50 pounds; bend, stoop, and climb stairs or structures.
• Perform keyboarding/typing and reading from screens or paper documents.
• Manage a high volume of work and multiple tasks in a fast‑paced environment, including extended hours when required.
• Pass pulmonary function and respirator fit testing for occasional respirator use

Prerequisites/Requirements:

• Negative 10 panel urinalysis and breath alcohol test.
• Ability to maintain active status in DISA with a score of 2 or less.

• Valid Driver's License and proof of U.S. Citizenship.
• Satisfactory background check.

• Valid TWIC card or ability to obtain one.

As an OBR Cooling Towers team member, you will enjoy:

• Competitive Salary: A salary commensurate with experience and performance, with potential for bonuses and raises.
• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Including medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents.
• Retirement Plan: A 401(k) plan with employer matching.
• Health Savings Account: OBR providers employer contributions to your HSA.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for training and workshops.
• Life Insurance: OBR provides company-paid coverage, with voluntary options available for employees and their families.
• Short Term Disability, Critical Illness, and Accidental Injury: Voluntary insurances options available.
• Per Diem, Mileage, and Gas: OBR provides fuel reimbursement for business travel under company guidelines.