Data Center Research & Development Engineer, Mechanical

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee electrical, mechanical, controls, and telemetry design and operations for large-scale data centers, including review of building and MEP drawings across all project phases from concept design to permitting, construction, commissioning and production.
• Develop, test and implement operational procedures and workflows from design through commissioning and deployment.
• Perform validation testing of all critical equipment and hardware in partnership with equipment vendors and ODMs.
• Lead buildout of R&D lab, including equipment selection, test infrastructure for high-density liquid-cooled racks, and staffing plans.
• Select and manage engineering tools (CAD, CFD, PLM, PDM, electrical, mechanical, power/network management).
• Collaborate with external vendors to select, procure, and manage critical infrastructure equipment (e.g., UPS, generators, transformers, DC to DC converters, chillers, VFDs).
• Ensure seamless integration of power, cooling, controls, networking, and construction systems into facility design.
• Provide technical direction to teams and vendors, ensuring safety, quality, and compliance with local codes, standards and regulations.
• Manage vendor relationships and ensure adherence to safety, performance, and operational standards.

Qualifications

• 20+ years of experience in data center design, operations, and critical systems maintenance.
• Proven leadership across design, commissioning, and operation of large-scale data center campuses.
• Deep expertise in infrastructure systems (power, cooling, controls, networking) and operational workflows.
• Hands-on experience with critical infrastructure equipment and testing protocols.
• Strong track record in lab development, equipment selection, and facility operations.
• Familiarity with engineering tools (CAD, CFD, PLM, etc.) and their integration across teams.
• Experience navigating regulatory environments and working with government agencies.
• Excellent cross-functional communication and stakeholder collaboration.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering required; advanced degree and PE certification preferred.

Preferred Skills

• Expertise in equipment design, agency certification, and validation testing.
• Experience in global, matrixed organizations and multi-site operations.
• Skilled in vendor negotiations and supply chain management.
• Familiarity with sustainable and energy-efficient data center design principles.