25 Commissioning Engineer Interview Questions and Answers

Commissioning engineers are responsible for the successful startup and testing of new or modified industrial systems. They work with clients and other stakeholders to develop system requirements, test and troubleshoot systems, and ensure customer satisfaction.

Commissioning engineer interviews may cover a range of topics, but most questions will be about your experience and skills. Review the following questions and sample answers to help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you comfortable working with a team of engineers to complete projects?

Commissioning engineers often work with a team of other engineers to complete projects. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working in a collaborative environment and that you can communicate effectively with your teammates. In your answer, explain how you enjoy collaborating with others and what makes you an effective teammate.

Example: “Absolutely! I have extensive experience working with teams of engineers to complete projects. In my current role, I am responsible for leading a team of commissioning engineers in the development and implementation of complex systems. I’m comfortable managing multiple tasks and delegating responsibilities to ensure that all deadlines are met. My strong communication skills also allow me to effectively collaborate with other members of the engineering team to ensure that each project is completed on time and within budget. I understand the importance of teamwork when it comes to successful completion of projects and take great pride in being able to work well with others.”

2. What are some of the most important skills you have that make you a good commissioning engineer?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you as a person and how your skills fit into the role. Use this opportunity to highlight any unique or transferable skills that make you an ideal candidate for the position.

Example: “I believe that my experience and skills make me an ideal candidate for the position of Commissioning Engineer. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, as well as over five years of experience working with electrical systems and components. My expertise lies in troubleshooting and diagnosing complex problems, as well as designing and implementing solutions to ensure optimal performance.

In addition to my technical knowledge, I possess strong interpersonal and communication skills. I am able to effectively collaborate with other engineers, technicians, and stakeholders to ensure successful commissioning projects. I also have excellent organizational and time management skills which enable me to complete tasks efficiently and on schedule. Finally, I have a keen eye for detail and can identify potential issues before they become major problems.”

3. How would you handle a situation where you found a safety hazard that needed to be fixed before the building could be put into use?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your problem-solving skills and how you handle stressful situations. In your answer, try to show that you can work well under pressure while also ensuring the safety of others.

Example: “If I found a safety hazard that needed to be fixed before the building could be put into use, my first priority would be to ensure the safety of all personnel involved. This means immediately informing the appropriate parties and making sure that any potential risks are identified and addressed. Once this is done, I would then work with the team to develop a plan for resolving the issue. This would involve assessing the situation, identifying the necessary steps to fix the problem, and scheduling the required resources. Finally, I would monitor the process until the safety hazard was resolved and the building was ready for use. My experience as a Commissioning Engineer has taught me how important it is to take swift action when addressing safety hazards and I am confident in my ability to handle such situations effectively.”

4. What is your process for ensuring that a building’s systems are properly installed and working properly before you sign off on the project?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you apply your engineering skills and knowledge to ensure that a building’s systems are safe for its occupants. Use examples from past projects where you applied your critical thinking, problem-solving and communication skills to ensure the safety of the buildings you worked on.

Example: “My process for ensuring a building’s systems are properly installed and working properly before I sign off on the project begins with an in-depth review of the design documents. This includes reviewing all drawings, specifications, schedules, and any other related documents to ensure that they accurately reflect the scope of work. Once this is complete, I conduct a thorough walkthrough of the site to identify any potential issues or discrepancies between the design documents and the actual installation.

Next, I perform detailed testing of each system to make sure it meets the required performance criteria. This includes running tests such as pressure drop, flow rate, temperature, humidity, etc., depending on the type of system being tested. Finally, I document all results and provide a comprehensive report to the client outlining any areas of concern and recommendations for improvement. By following this process, I can be confident that the systems have been correctly installed and are functioning optimally before signing off on the project.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to make a difficult decision regarding the use of limited resources.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your decision-making skills and how you use them in the workplace. When answering, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation that involved making a choice between two or more options and the reasoning behind your final decision.

Example: “I recently had to make a difficult decision regarding the use of limited resources while working as a Commissioning Engineer. I was tasked with commissioning a new system for a client, but the budget was tight and there were only enough resources to complete one part of the project. After careful consideration, I decided to prioritize the most important components first in order to ensure that the system would be completed on time and within budget. This required me to make some tough decisions about which parts of the project could be delayed or eliminated altogether. In the end, my decision allowed us to stay within our budget and deliver the system on schedule.”

6. If you found a problem with a system you previously commissioned, how would you handle it?

This question can help interviewers understand how you respond to challenges and whether you take responsibility for your actions. Use examples from previous experience in which you found a problem with a system or project, identified the cause of the issue and implemented solutions to fix it.

Example: “If I found a problem with a system I previously commissioned, my first step would be to identify the root cause of the issue. This could involve reviewing any documentation related to the commissioning process and talking to other stakeholders who were involved in the project. Once I have identified the source of the problem, I can take action to resolve it. Depending on the complexity of the issue, this may involve making changes to existing systems or implementing new processes.

Once the issue has been resolved, I will document all of the steps taken to fix the problem so that similar issues can be avoided in the future. Finally, I would ensure that all relevant parties are informed of the resolution and that any necessary follow-up actions are completed. By taking these steps, I am confident that I can effectively handle any problems that arise from systems I have commissioned.”

7. What would you do if you were working on a project and one of the building’s owners or managers was interfering with your work?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to work under pressure. In your answer, try to show that you can remain calm in these situations and explain how you would handle the situation professionally.

Example: “If I were working on a project and one of the building’s owners or managers was interfering with my work, I would first take the time to understand their concerns. It is important to have an open dialogue so that any issues can be addressed in a timely manner. Once I had a clear understanding of the issue at hand, I would then explain the process and procedures I am following for the commissioning process and why it is necessary. If there are any changes needed, I would ensure they are documented and approved by all parties involved. Finally, I would provide regular updates throughout the project to keep everyone informed of progress and any potential risks or delays. By taking this approach, I believe I can successfully manage any interference while still delivering a successful project.”

8. How well do you work under pressure?

This question can help interviewers determine how well you perform in a fast-paced environment. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a time when you worked under pressure and the positive outcome of your work.

Example: “Working under pressure is something I’m very familiar with. In my current role as a Commissioning Engineer, I often have to work on tight deadlines and manage multiple projects at once. This requires me to stay organized and prioritize tasks in order to meet the deadlines. I also make sure that I am always prepared for any unexpected issues or delays that may arise during the project.

I thrive when working under pressure because it allows me to use my problem-solving skills and think outside of the box to come up with creative solutions. I understand the importance of staying focused and motivated even when things get tough. My ability to remain calm and composed while managing difficult situations has allowed me to successfully complete projects on time and within budget.”

9. Do you have experience working with building automation software?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience level with commissioning software. If you have no prior experience, it’s important to explain what commissioning is and how automation works in relation to the industry.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with building automation software. In my current role as a Commissioning Engineer, I am responsible for developing and implementing commissioning plans that include the installation of various types of building automation systems. I have worked on projects involving HVAC, lighting, security, fire safety, and other building control systems. I have also been involved in programming and troubleshooting these systems to ensure they are functioning properly. My experience has given me an understanding of how these systems work and how to optimize their performance. As a result, I am confident that I can effectively manage any building automation system you may need.”

10. When commissioning a building’s HVAC system, what is the appropriate temperature range to maintain?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to assess your knowledge of the industry and how it relates to commissioning HVAC systems. In your answer, provide an example of when you maintained the appropriate temperature range during a project.

Example: “When commissioning a building’s HVAC system, the appropriate temperature range to maintain depends on the specific needs of the building. Generally speaking, the ideal temperature range for most buildings is between 68 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit. This range ensures that occupants are comfortable while also minimizing energy costs.

As an experienced Commissioning Engineer, I understand how important it is to set the right temperature range when commissioning a building’s HVAC system. I have extensive experience in this area and am confident that I can ensure the optimal temperature range is maintained at all times. Furthermore, I am familiar with various types of HVAC systems and their associated components, so I am able to troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the commissioning process.”

11. We want to increase energy efficiency. What changes would you make to the systems you commissioned?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of energy efficiency and how you might apply it to their company. Use examples from previous projects that helped increase energy efficiency or saved the company money.

Example: “I understand the importance of increasing energy efficiency, and I am confident that I can make a positive impact in this area. As a Commissioning Engineer, my primary focus is to ensure that all systems are working optimally and efficiently. To achieve this goal, I would first assess the existing systems and identify any areas where improvements could be made. This may include replacing outdated equipment with more efficient models or making adjustments to current systems to reduce energy consumption.

In addition, I would also look for ways to optimize system performance by implementing best practices such as using variable speed drives on pumps and fans, installing occupancy sensors to control lighting levels, and utilizing smart thermostats to regulate temperature. Finally, I would work closely with other departments to ensure that these changes are implemented correctly and that they meet the desired goals of increased energy efficiency.”

12. Describe your process for documenting your work and keeping records.

The interviewer may ask this question to understand how you keep track of your work and the progress you make. This can help them determine if you have a system in place for organizing your records, which is an important part of commissioning engineering projects. In your answer, try to describe your process for keeping organized and provide examples of how you’ve done so in the past.

Example: “I understand the importance of documenting my work and keeping accurate records. My process for doing so begins with creating a detailed plan before I start any commissioning project. This helps me to ensure that all necessary steps are taken, and that nothing is overlooked. Once the project has been completed, I document every step of the process in detail. This includes taking notes on any problems or issues encountered, as well as noting what worked and didn’t work during the commissioning process. Finally, I create a comprehensive report summarizing the entire project, which can be used as a reference for future projects. Keeping accurate records also allows me to track progress over time and identify areas where improvements can be made.”

13. What makes you stand out from other candidates for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their company. Before your interview, make a list of the skills and experiences that make you an ideal candidate for this role. Focus on highlighting your most relevant experience and soft skills.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me an ideal candidate for this position. I have over five years of experience in commissioning engineering, including working with a variety of complex systems and technologies. My expertise includes troubleshooting, testing, and validating new systems to ensure they meet all requirements.

In addition, I am well-versed in safety protocols and procedures related to commissioning engineering. I understand the importance of following these regulations and take every precaution necessary to ensure that all work is completed safely and efficiently.

Furthermore, I possess excellent communication skills which allow me to effectively collaborate with other teams and stakeholders. I can clearly explain technical concepts and provide detailed reports on project progress. This helps ensure that everyone involved is kept up to date with any changes or updates.”

14. Which building systems do you have the most experience with?

This question can help the interviewer determine your level of experience with commissioning. It also helps them understand which systems you’re most comfortable working on and how much time you’ve spent learning about other building systems. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few systems that are similar to those in the job description. This can show the interviewer that you have the skills necessary to work on their project.

Example: “I have extensive experience in commissioning building systems, and I am most familiar with HVAC, electrical, fire safety, and plumbing systems. Over the past few years, I have had the opportunity to work on a variety of projects ranging from small residential buildings to large commercial complexes.

In particular, I have been involved in the installation and testing of HVAC systems, including ductwork, air handlers, chillers, boilers, and pumps. I also have experience in troubleshooting and repairing any issues that arise during the commissioning process. In addition, I have worked on electrical systems such as lighting, power distribution, and control wiring. Finally, I have experience with fire safety systems like sprinklers, alarms, and suppression systems, as well as plumbing systems including water supply, drainage, and waste disposal.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of being a commissioning engineer?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you understand what commissioning engineers do and how they can benefit a company. Use examples from your experience to explain why this role is important in construction projects.

Example: “I believe the most important aspect of being a commissioning engineer is having a thorough understanding of engineering principles and processes. This includes knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and software systems as well as an ability to troubleshoot any issues that arise. It also requires strong communication skills in order to effectively collaborate with other engineers, technicians, and customers.

In addition, I think it’s essential for a commissioning engineer to be organized and detail-oriented. This ensures that all components are properly tested and installed according to specifications. Finally, it’s important to have excellent problem solving skills so that any unexpected problems can be quickly identified and resolved.”

16. How often do you perform maintenance on your personal equipment and tools?

This question can help interviewers understand your attention to detail and how you care for the tools you use. It can also show them that you’re willing to take on responsibility, which is important in this role. When answering, consider mentioning a specific time when you maintained your equipment or tools.

Example: “I take great pride in my personal equipment and tools, so I make sure to perform maintenance on them regularly. Every month, I check for any wear or tear that may have occurred since the last time I looked at them. If there is any damage, I will either repair it myself or take it to a professional if necessary. In addition, I also inspect all of my tools and equipment before each job to ensure they are functioning properly. This helps me avoid any potential issues during the commissioning process. Finally, I always keep spare parts and supplies on hand just in case something does go wrong.”

17. There is a discrepancy between the design plans and the actual building. How would you handle this?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work with others. A commissioning engineer must be able to identify discrepancies between the design plans and actual building, communicate these issues to other engineers and architects and find solutions that are acceptable to all parties involved.

Example: “If I encountered a discrepancy between the design plans and the actual building, my first step would be to investigate the issue thoroughly. This would involve comparing the design plans with the current state of the building, as well as speaking with any relevant stakeholders who may have insight into the situation.

Once I had identified the source of the discrepancy, I would work to develop an appropriate solution that meets the needs of all involved parties. This could include making changes to the design plans or working with the contractor to make adjustments to the building itself. My goal would be to ensure that the final result is safe, efficient, and cost-effective.

I understand the importance of communication in this process, so I would also keep everyone informed throughout the process. This includes providing regular updates on progress and addressing any questions or concerns that arise. By doing this, I can help ensure that the project runs smoothly and efficiently while meeting the expectations of all involved.”

18. Do you have experience working with new technologies for commissioning projects?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience working with new technologies and how well you adapt to them. Use your answer to highlight any previous experience using new technologies, such as automation or IoT devices, and explain how you adapted to the technology quickly.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with new technologies for commissioning projects. In my current role as a Commissioning Engineer, I’ve been responsible for the successful implementation of several new technologies in various projects. My ability to quickly learn and understand new systems has allowed me to become an expert in commissioning them.

I’m also well-versed in troubleshooting issues that arise during the commissioning process and can easily identify potential problems before they become costly delays. Furthermore, I’m comfortable communicating with stakeholders at all levels, from engineers to executives, to ensure everyone is on the same page throughout the project.”

19. How do you stay up to date on changes in the building systems industry?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have a passion for your career and want to continue learning. They are looking for an answer that shows you enjoy keeping up with industry news, attend conferences or read journals.

Example: “Staying up to date on changes in the building systems industry is essential for a Commissioning Engineer. To ensure I am always informed of new developments, I regularly attend conferences and seminars related to my field. I also make sure to read trade magazines and other publications that cover the latest trends in the industry. Furthermore, I have established relationships with colleagues who work in similar roles so we can share information about what’s happening in our respective fields. Finally, I take advantage of online resources such as webinars and podcasts to stay abreast of any changes or advancements in the industry. By taking these steps, I am able to remain knowledgeable and current in the ever-evolving world of building systems engineering.”

20. Are there any codes or regulations that you are particularly familiar with and how do you ensure they are followed during a project?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this to determine your knowledge of industry regulations and codes. Use your answer to highlight any experience you have with regulatory compliance, including how you ensure that projects meet the necessary standards.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with codes and regulations related to commissioning projects. As a Commissioning Engineer, it is my responsibility to ensure that all applicable codes and regulations are followed throughout the project. To do this, I review relevant documents such as building plans, specifications, and other technical documents to ensure compliance. I also stay up-to-date on any changes in local or national codes and regulations so that I can adjust my approach accordingly. Finally, I make sure to communicate regularly with stakeholders to ensure that everyone is aware of their responsibilities and that all code requirements are being met.”

21. What type of communication do you use when working with other engineers, contractors, and owners?

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you interact with others in your field. Use examples from past projects where you collaborated with other engineers, contractors and owners to explain the type of communication you use when working on a project.

Example: “I believe effective communication is key when working with other engineers, contractors, and owners. I use a variety of methods to ensure that everyone involved in the project is on the same page.

When I’m working with other engineers, I prefer face-to-face meetings or video conferencing so that we can discuss any issues in detail. This helps us work together more efficiently and ensures that all parties understand what needs to be done.

When dealing with contractors, I like to have regular check-ins via email or phone calls. This allows me to keep track of their progress and address any potential problems before they become major issues.

Lastly, I make sure to communicate regularly with the owner of the project. I provide them with updates on the status of the commissioning process as well as any changes that may need to be made. This keeps them informed and gives them peace of mind that everything is going according to plan.”

22. Describe your experience dealing with difficult stakeholders.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and ability to work with challenging people. Use examples from past experience to show that you can communicate effectively, remain calm under pressure and solve problems quickly.

Example: “I have a great deal of experience dealing with difficult stakeholders. In my current role as Commissioning Engineer, I often work with multiple stakeholders from different departments and backgrounds. It is important to be able to effectively communicate with each stakeholder in order to ensure that the project runs smoothly and meets all expectations.

To do this, I take the time to understand their needs and concerns and develop strategies to address them. I also make sure to listen carefully to what they are saying and ask questions when necessary to gain clarity on any points of confusion. Finally, I am always open to feedback and willing to adjust plans or timelines if needed. This approach has allowed me to successfully navigate challenging situations and build strong relationships with stakeholders.”

23. Explain your process for troubleshooting problems that arise during the commissioning process.

The interviewer may ask you this question to understand how you approach a problem and solve it. Use your answer to highlight your critical thinking skills, communication abilities and ability to work as part of a team.

Example: “When troubleshooting problems that arise during the commissioning process, I like to take a systematic approach. First, I identify and analyze the problem by gathering all relevant information from the system and its components. This includes reviewing any documentation or manuals related to the system, as well as conducting tests on the system itself. Once I have identified the issue, I create a plan of action to address it. This may involve replacing faulty parts, making adjustments to existing components, or reconfiguring the system in some way. Finally, I test the system again to ensure that the issue has been resolved. Throughout this process, I keep detailed notes so that if similar issues arise in the future, I can refer back to my previous work.”

24. If a system is not performing as expected, what steps would you take to identify the problem?

This question can help interviewers understand how you approach a problem and solve it. Use your answer to highlight your critical thinking skills, ability to analyze data and use of technical tools.

Example: “If a system is not performing as expected, the first step I would take is to review the documentation associated with the system. This includes any technical manuals or schematics that may be available. By reviewing this information, I can gain an understanding of how the system should be functioning and what components are involved in its operation.

Once I have reviewed the documentation, I will then begin to troubleshoot the system. This involves testing each component individually to ensure they are working correctly. If there are any discrepancies, I will make adjustments or replace faulty parts as necessary.

I also use diagnostic tools such as oscilloscopes and multimeters to measure voltage, current, resistance, and other parameters. This helps me identify any potential issues within the system. Finally, I will perform tests on the entire system to verify that it is operating properly.”

25. Provide an example of a time when you had to make a decision quickly while under pressure.

This question can help interviewers understand how you make decisions and whether or not you are able to think critically under pressure. In your answer, try to explain the steps you took to come to a conclusion and what factors contributed to your decision.

Example: “I recently had to make a quick decision while under pressure when I was working as a Commissioning Engineer. We were in the process of commissioning a new system and it was running into some issues that needed to be addressed quickly. The issue was causing delays, so we had to come up with a solution fast. After assessing the situation, I decided to take the initiative and troubleshoot the problem myself. I identified the root cause of the issue and implemented a fix that allowed us to continue with the commissioning process without any further delay. This experience demonstrated my ability to think on my feet and make decisions quickly even when under pressure.”