Commissioning & Start up Lead (Steam Methane Reformer (SMR) Hydrogen plants)📣 Job Ad

About the Role

Eram Talent is seeking an experienced and safety-conscious Commissioning & Start-Up (CSU) Lead to oversee the successful transition of Steam Methane Reformer (SMR) hydrogen production assets from construction to commercial operation. This is a full-time, field-based role requiring 10+ years of experience, with at least 5 years in a lead capacity for SMR Hydrogen plants.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide technical and operational leadership for the site commissioning team.
• Develop and implement the Commissioning Execution Plan, managing scheduling, resource mobilization, and budget.
• Lead the end-to-end commissioning of SMR units, including reformer furnaces, shift converters, PSA purification systems, compressors, steam systems, and balance-of-plant utilities.
• Enforce rigorous safety protocols, including Permit-to-Work, LOTO, and HAZOP/HAZID compliance, acting as a safety champion.
• Manage pre-commissioning activities such as mechanical completion walkdowns, flushing, cleaning, leak testing, instrumentation loop checks, and control system (DCS/PLC) validation.
• Direct the first-time introduction of feedstocks and gases, manage the ramp-up process, and conduct performance test runs.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all commissioning documentation and facilitate formal handover to the Operations team.
• Act as the primary liaison between project engineering, EPC contractors, vendors/OEMs, and the client/owner’s operations team to resolve technical issues and punch list items.

Qualifications and Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Chemical, Mechanical, or Process Engineering.
• Minimum of 10+ years in the oil, gas, or chemical industry.
• At least 5 years specifically in a lead capacity for the commissioning and startup of SMR Hydrogen plants.
• Deep understanding of SMR process chemistry, thermodynamics, and high-temperature furnace operations.
• Expertise in hydrogen safety, high-pressure gas systems, and PSA unit operations.
• Proficiency in interpreting complex P&IDs, control logic, and loop diagrams.
• Proven track record of managing multi-disciplinary site teams and coordinating effectively with contractors and subcontractors.
• Strong analytical skills for root cause analysis (RCA) during technical troubleshooting.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills for stakeholder reporting and operational training.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with other hydrogen technologies (*, electrolysis, carbon capture integration).
• Certification in Project Management (PMP) or relevant industry health and safety certifications.
• Experience in both greenfield and brownfield project environments.

Work Environment

This is a 100% site-presence, field-based role. Candidates must be willing to work at construction sites, which may include remote or international locations. Flexibility to work extended hours, weekends, or shifts during critical startup milestones is required.