Senior Commissioning Engineer - Electrical

About John Holland:

At John Holland, our purpose is simple: we transform lives with everything we do.

We know infrastructure is about people - our customers, our employees and the communities we work in every day. That's what sets us apart: deep expertise, proven capability and a genuine commitment to creating better outcomes for people along the way.

With expertise spanning engineering, construction and operations, we're delivering the projects and services that keep communities moving. From rail, roads and bridges to hospitals and stadiums, we've helped shape Australia through iconic projects. You'll even see us operating buses, trains and trams.

Be part of a team that's up for the challenge of transforming lives.

About the opportunity:

John Holland in partnership with McConnell Dowell (Joint Venture) are delivering the Kidston Pumped Storage Hydro Project in Far North Queensland. This is an innovative project that involves the world-first conversion of a disused gold mine into a pumped storage hydroelectric power generation facility in far-north Queensland (270km North West of Townsville).

• The project will see the conversion of two existing mine pits into reservoirs, involving the construction of significant underground infrastructure including a large powerhouse cavern and waterway shafts and tunnels to allow the transfer of water between upper and lower reservoirs to generate power during peak periods and return water back to the upper reservoir during off peak periods.


• This project received funding from ARENA as part of ARENA's Advancing Renewables Program and is a gamechanger for the clean energy industry worldwide as it is an entirely new approach to large-scale energy storage.


• This is a FIFO position and will be on a 2:1 roster.

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Senior Electrical Commissioning Engineer to support the development, design and commissioning of electrical systems for both OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) and BoP (Balance of Plant) equipment on KPSH. The successful candidate will be responsible for planning, coordinating, and executing electrical commissioning activities to ensure all systems are tested, verified, and fully operational in accordance with design, safety, and regulatory requirements.

What you will do:

• Develop and implement commissioning plans, procedures, and checklists for all electrical systems.


• Review all design packages to ensure they satisfy the functional intent of KPSH


• Manage OEM and BoP subcontractors for all commissioning deliverables


• Perform inspection, testing, and commissioning of high-voltage (HV), medium-voltage (MV), and low-voltage (LV) electrical equipment including:


• Coordinate and execute loop checks, functional tests, and energization plans.


• Work closely with engineering, construction, OEMs, and operations teams to ensure systems are commissioned according to project schedules and quality standards.


• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues during pre-commissioning and commissioning phases.


• Support the integration of KPSH with the wider electrical grid, ensuring compliance with grid codes and standards.


• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards during all commissioning activities.


• Record and document all test results and prepare detailed commissioning reports and handover documentation.


• Liaise with utility providers, regulatory bodies, and third-party testing agencies as needed.


• Manage and monitor preservation and O&M requirements in accordance with the equipment manuals.


• Assist and work closely with the permit team to plan permits and review permit applications.


• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards during all commissioning activities.


• Record and document all test results and prepare detailed commissioning reports and handover documentation.


• Liaise with utility providers, regulatory bodies, and third-party testing agencies as needed.


• Manage and monitor preservation and O&M requirements in accordance with the equipment manuals.


• Assist and work closely with the permit team to plan permits and review permit applications.

What we are looking for:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or equivalent technical qualification.


• Minimum 5+ years of experience in power generation, preferably hydro or pumped storage.


• Strong understanding of electrical systems including HV/MV/LV, protection schemes, and control systems.


• Strong understanding of SCADA systems, PLCs, and control logic.


• Hands-on experience with commissioning procedures, safety protocols, and energisation processes.


• Familiarity with relevant standards and codes


• Ability to read and interpret electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, and technical drawings.


• Strong communication, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.


• Ability to work in field conditions, including remote project sites, with rotating or extended shifts if required.


• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.


• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

What we offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits, including salary continuance and salary sacrifice options


• Flexible work arrangements and generous leave, including 18 weeks paid parental leave


• Career development through technical, leadership and emerging talent programs


• Opportunities to work on some of Australia's most iconic projects


• A diverse and inclusive culture where everyone feels they belong


• Wellbeing support and benefits designed to help you thrive