Pipeline Pre-Commissioning Engineer – China Petroleum Pipeline Company (UAE)

Location: United Arab Emirates

Company: China Petroleum Pipeline Company

Job Purpose-
To plan, coordinate, and execute all pre-commissioning activities for onshore pipelines, ensuring they are completed safely, efficiently, and in compliance with project specifications, industry standards, and schedule requirements, prior to handover for commissioning.
Key Responsibilities-
•Develop and review pre-commissioning procedures, including cleaning, gauging, hydrotesting, dewatering, drying, and inerting.
•Prepare pre-commissioning execution plans, manning schedules, and equipment lists (pumps, filters, pigs, launchers/receivers, etc.).
•Coordinate with construction, commissioning, and HSE teams to align pre-commissioning readiness with project milestones.
•Supervise field execution of pigging, pressure testing, and N2 purging activities, ensuring compliance with approved procedures.
•Monitor and record test parameters (pressure, temperature, flow, etc.), and prepare pre-commissioning reports and dossiers.
•Troubleshoot technical issues during pre-commissioning (e.g., stuck pigs, pressure drop anomalies).
•Ensure proper handling, calibration, and certification of test equipment and instrumentation.
•Participate in risk assessments, HAZID/HAZOP reviews, and ensure adherence to safety rules during high-pressure operations.
•Support OTP (Operational Test Procedure) development and ICAPS population related to pre-commissioning.

Experience
•Minimum 5–8 years of relevant experience in pipeline pre-commissioning / commissioning, preferably in oil & gas projects (onshore).
•Proven field experience in executing hydrotesting, pigging (foam, brush, bidirectional), and dewatering campaigns.
•Familiarity with industry standards (ASME B31.4/B31.8, API RP 1169, etc.).
•Experience preparing pre-commissioning deliverables (procedures, test packs, field records).
Technical Competencies
•Strong knowledge of pre-commissioning process sequence (cleaning, gauging, hydrotest, drain, dry, inert, handover).
•Hands-on experience with high-pressure pumps, air compressors, nitrogen units, and filtration systems.
•Proficient in interpreting P&IDs, alignment sheets, pipeline route drawings, and isometrics.
•Competent in using pressure chart recorders, digital data loggers, and ICAPS / completion systems.
•Good technical writing skills for procedures and reports.
•Familiarity with gas mapping, oxygen content control, and dew point requirements.

source:Gulftalent