Data Center Mechanical Engineering SME

About the Role

Applied Digital is seeking a highly skilled Data Center Mechanical Engineer – Operational Subject Matter Expert (SME) to oversee and optimize the performance, reliability, and efficiency of our data center mechanical infrastructure. This role requires deep technical expertise in chiller systems, evaporative cooling, CDU cooling, water distribution and treatment, emergency diesel generators, and fire suppression systems. Additionally, a working knowledge of building automation systems and electrical distribution is essential. The SME will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to develop operational strategies, troubleshoot complex mechanical issues, and drive improvements in system resiliency and efficiency.

Responsibilities

• Serve as an onsite technical resource for mechanical infrastructure systems and equipment, with an emphasis on practical field operation.
• Ensure appropriate cross-functional collaboration between the local facility team and applicable local and global teams.
• Contribute to the mechanical safety program for the site.
• Collaborate with design, construction, and operations teams to enhance mechanical system resiliency and scalability.
• Develop and maintain all site mechanical-related procedures including EOPs, SOPs, MOPs, and Drills, ensuring consistency with current client standards.
• Plan, author, or approve work procedures covering mechanical troubleshooting, repair, retrofit, and maintenance activities, with an emphasis on assessing and mitigating personnel, critical systems, and operational risk.
• Conduct or oversee hands-on troubleshooting, repair, retrofit, and maintenance of mechanical equipment.
• Oversee mechanical system configurations and component upgrades to ensure system integrity and compliance with best practices, including change control processes.
• Provide Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QAQC) oversight of construction projects and maintenance activity.
• Lead and/or participate in root-cause analysis activities within your area of expertise.
• Provide training to Critical Facility Engineers and other cross-functional teams on mechanical equipment, systems, procedures, and changes, including mechanical/fire & life safety/industrial water equipment/systems and procedures.
• Manage vendor relationships for mechanical maintenance and retrofit work.
• Provide feedback on global mechanical maintenance strategies and global mechanical system design improvements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent experience in mechanical trades.
• 7+ years of experience in data center mechanical engineering, facility operations, or mission-critical environments.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret blueprints/CAD drawings.
• Extensive experience in understanding mechanical plans, specifications, and equipment shop drawings.
• Working knowledge of trend charts and refrigeration cycles.
• Proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex mechanical system failures in real-time operational settings.
• Theoretical and practical understanding of mechanical equipment and systems, specializing in mechanical equipment design, maintenance, troubleshooting, testing, and/or construction.
• Familiarity with critical facility operations, including experience or comprehension of procedure-based work.
• Proven experience working in a highly collaborative, cross-functional environment.

Please note that Applied Digital is currently unable to sponsor new applicants for employment authorization or provide immigration-related support for this position.

Skills

• Communication: Clear verbal and written communication to document incidents and ensure proper shift handoffs.
• Collaboration: Ability to work closely with team members, supervisors, and cross-functional partners.
• Adaptability: Flexible in responding to changes in process, tools, environment, and shift assignments.
• Accountability: Takes ownership of assigned tasks and follows through with minimal supervision.
• Attention to Detail: Maintains thorough and accurate logs, inspections, records, and documentation.
• Time Management: Manages time effectively to meet performance expectations and service levels.
• Integrity: Adheres to company policies, safety protocols, and professional ethics always.
• Continuous Improvement Mindset: Recommends and supports efficiency, safety, and system innovations.
• Documentation Discipline: Maintains clear, consistent records for operational continuity and compliance.
• Security Compliance: Maintains awareness of data center physical and logical security expectations.
• Digital Literacy: Uses productivity tools (e.g., Outlook, Teams, Excel, ticketing systems) for communication and documentation in office or hybrid settings.

Physical Requirements

• Able to remain in a seated position for an extended period.
• Able to lift and carry up to 15 lbs (office manuals, case notebooks, case files, case materials, standard boxes, report binders, etc.) as needed.