Construction Manager (Mechanical)

About the role

We’re seeking an experienced Mechanical Construction Manager to lead mission-critical build efforts for our data center in Memphis, Tennessee. As a key on-site leader, you’ll bring credibility, expertise, and steady leadership to fast-paced, high-impact projects. You’ll own site relationships, collaborate with technical and construction teams, and report to central construction leadership, with potential shifts in reporting lines as projects evolve.

Responsibilities

• Act as the senior construction representative for the Memphis data center, managing relationships with contractors, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Oversee end-to-end project execution, from pre-construction and site development through commissioning and controls.
• Cook up multiple vendors, ensuring seamless communication between field and technical teams.
• Proactively identify and mitigate risks to ensure high-quality delivery, safety, and operational readiness.
• Drive progress on the data center project, resolving roadblocks to keep timelines on track.
• Align construction schedules with xAI’s broader infrastructure goals through cross-functional collaboration.
• Partner with teams to guide commissioning and resolve issues efficiently.
• Deliver regular updates using well-designed KPIs and dashboards for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure the project meets technical and quality standards outlined in the base design.
• Perform quantity take-offs and field verifications to monitor progress and support reporting.
• Manage change orders, identifying solutions to minimize unnecessary changes and control costs.
• Lead site safety initiatives, fostering a consistent and effective safety culture.
• Adapt to evolving needs, supporting cross-functional partners as required, regardless of original job scope.

Basic qualifications

• 5+ years of experience managing large-scale data center or mission-critical construction projects.
• Deep expertise in construction management, commissioning, and site operations.
• Proven ability to lead on-site with authority and build trust with vendors, partners, and technical teams.
• Experience managing large programs with multiple vendors and dynamic priorities.
• Strong communication skills across disciplines, from field updates to technical escalations.
• Thrives in solving complex, real-time problems with adaptability and composure.

Prior to employment

• Pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.
• Pre-employment and annual post-employment background checks.
• Exposure to noise.
• Available to work evenings and weekends.
• Ability to lift 25+ pounds.

Additional requirements

Position is subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing
Position is subject to pre-employment and annual post-employment background checks
Comfortable working in an environment requiring exposure to noise
Available to work evenings and weekends, as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required

Qualifications

• Previous experience in data center construction or highly technical facilities.
• Familiarity with local Memphis building codes and regulations.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to handle complex construction challenges.