Job Description

Title: Startup Manager

Location: Columbus, OH

Duration: 6+ months

Schedule: 60+ hours per week

Start date: ASAP

OVERVIEW

We are seeking a Startup Manager to oversee the commissioning and activation phases of large-scale solar energy projects across the U.S. In this role, you’ll be responsible for supervising field-based startup activities, ensuring safety and quality standards are upheld, and driving successful turnover to operations.

The ideal candidate brings a strong mechanical background, leadership capabilities, and experience in power or renewable infrastructure projects, particularly those involving generation systems, substations, or large-scale site integration.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead all mechanical commissioning and startup efforts for solar energy facilities from pre-functional testing through turnover
• Oversee field execution teams and interface with engineering, construction, and subcontractor personnel
• Develop and manage startup plans, progress tracking tools, and documentation workflows
• Review equipment installation readiness; coordinate alignment, flushing, startup testing, and initial system energization
• Ensure lockout/tagout (LOTO), environmental, and jobsite safety protocols are maintained at all times
• Lead daily planning sessions and safety briefings; document site activities and field observations
• Facilitate closeout, punch list resolution, and turnover package assembly
• Support logistics coordination of startup-related equipment and prefabricated materials from remote facilities or laydown yards
• Mentor junior startup team members and contribute to an evolving internal commissioning culture

REQUIREMENTS

• Solar plant experience required
• 7–15 years of startup/commissioning experience, preferably on energy infrastructure projects
• Hands-on background with pumps, rotating equipment, line flushing, alignment, vibration testing, and utility-scale system commissioning
• Familiarity with OSHA protocols, environmental compliance, and jobsite safety management
• Comfortable working in a field-based environment with changing site conditions and long project durations
• Proven ability to coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and external contractors
• Willingness to travel and reside on project sites for extended periods
• Engineering degree or equivalent field experience preferred

FootBridge is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive environment where everyone is valued and respected. We make employment decisions based on qualifications and business needs, without discrimination on any basis, and we welcome candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.

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