Data Center Mechanical Subject Matter Expert

About the role

The Data Center Mechanical Subject Matter Expert (SME) serves as the primary technical authority for mechanical systems within a mission-critical data center environment. This hands-on role is responsible for optimizing system reliability, supporting maintenance and troubleshooting activities, and leading technical training efforts.

Responsibilities

• Technical Leadership & Oversight
• Serve as the onsite technical expert for mechanical infrastructure systems.
• Optimize performance, reliability, and efficiency of HVAC and fluid systems.
• Oversee mechanical system configurations, upgrades, and modifications.
• Ensure all work adheres to best practices, change control processes, and QA/QC standards.
• Provide technical guidance for troubleshooting complex mechanical issues.
• Operations & Maintenance
• Plan, develop, and approve maintenance procedures and work plans.
• Oversee execution and quality control of maintenance, repair, and retrofit activities.
• Coverage includes conducting or supervising hands-on troubleshooting and repair of mechanical equipment.
• Maintain and update SOPs, MOPs, and EOPs to align with client standards.
• Support mechanical safety programs and risk mitigation efforts.
• Project & Continuous Improvement
• Support and oversee mechanical aspects of construction and retrofit projects.
• Analyze mechanical systems and identify opportunities for operational improvement.
• Perform system assessments and ensure proper documentation of processes and changes.
• Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) efforts for mechanical system failures.
• Training & Team Development
• Train Critical Facility Engineers (CFEs) on mechanical systems and procedures.
• Deliver classroom and hands-on training on HVAC, fire/life safety, and water systems.
• Foster a collaborative, high-performance team environment.
• Support cross-functional collaboration across facility and engineering teams.
• Vendor & Stakeholder Management
• Manage vendor relationships supporting mechanical systems and services.
• Cookordinate with internal and external teams to ensure alignment on operational goals.
• Ensure service providers meet safety, quality, and performance expectations.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in mechanical systems within a mission-critical environment (OR bachelor’s degree in engineering/engineering technology with 4+ years of experience)
• Strong hands-on experience in mechanical operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs
• Working knowledge of electrical, controls, and fire/life safety systems
• Familiarity with brazing, grinding, and refrigerant handling
• Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office tools

Skills

• Advanced HVAC and mechanical systems expertise
• Troubleshooting and root cause analysis (RCA)
• Preventive and corrective maintenance planning
• Technical training and mentorship
• Knowledge of chilled water, DX cooling, and fluid systems
• Understanding of building automation and control systems
• Vendor and project management
• Risk assessment and safety compliance
• Interpretation of schematics and technical drawings
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment, up to 50lbs.
• Ability to climb ladders and multiple flights of stairs to access elevated equipment
• Ability to stand for long periods of time in various work environments
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach for equipment related tasks
• Basic physical fitness to respond quickly to emergency situations and navigate areas quickly
• Good hand-eye coordination and dexterity for working with small components and connectors
• Clear vision, with or without correction, to perform tasks requiring attention to detail and precision while wearing safety glasses
• Ability to differentiate between color-coded warning signs, labels, and cables
• Ability to work in environments with a wide variety of temperatures inside a facility
• Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, rain, or snow
• Capability to work in environments with elevated noise levels while wearing hearing protection
• Possession of a valid driver’s license for work-related travel, as required