Job Title: Commissioning Manager

Location: Brussels, Belgium

Contract Type: 18-Month Contract

Start Date: Start of May

About the Role

We are looking for an experienced and hands-on Commissioning Manager with a background in mechanical and electrical systems to lead commissioning activities on a major pharmaceutical project. This is an 18-month contract position with responsibility for overseeing all aspects of M&E commissioning and building out a high-performing commissioning team to support project delivery from construction through to qualification and handover.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full commissioning lifecycle for mechanical and electrical systems including HVAC, clean utilities, black utilities, electrical distribution, and BMS.
• Develop commissioning strategies, execution plans, protocols (FAT, SAT, IOQ), and schedules aligned with project timelines.
• Build and lead a multidisciplinary commissioning team (internal staff, contractors, vendors) to deliver on scope and deadlines.
• Coordinate with engineering, construction, CQV, and operations to ensure seamless integration of systems into GMP environments.
• Manage interfaces and coordination across disciplines, tracking progress, resolving issues, and ensuring alignment with project goals.
• Ensure compliance with GMP, safety, and commissioning standards throughout execution.
• Oversee documentation, punch list resolution, and system handovers in accordance with quality requirements.
• Provide leadership, mentorship, and day-to-day support to the team.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree-qualified in Mechanical, Electrical, or Process Engineering (or equivalent).
• 8+ years of commissioning experience in pharmaceutical or biotech environments.
• Strong knowledge of GMP, GEP, and regulatory standards relevant to M&E systems.
• Proven experience leading commissioning of cleanrooms, utilities, and complex equipment.
• Demonstrated ability to build and manage teams in a project-based environment.
• Familiarity with commissioning tools, documentation, and validation protocols.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Fluent in English; other European languages (e.g., French or German) are a plus.

Contract Details

• Duration: 18 months
• Schedule: Full-time, site-based
• Rate: Competitive hourly rate, with an additional monthly expense package.
• Location: Brussels, Belgium

Darwin Recruitment is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.

Asha Longman