Lead Critical Facilities Engineer (Data Center Ops)

About the Role

We are seeking a hands-on Lead Engineer to support the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of critical data center infrastructure. This role emphasizes mechanical and electrical systems, project leadership, troubleshooting, and reliability initiatives. The Lead Engineer will serve as a technical subject matter expert and lead facility-related projects without direct people management responsibilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate facility infrastructure projects from planning through completion.
• Oversee maintenance, repair, and operation of critical mechanical and electrical systems.
• Troubleshoot equipment and system failures to minimize downtime and improve reliability.
• Support preventative and predictive maintenance programs.
• Review and manage work performed by contractors and vendors.
• Perform root cause analysis and develop corrective action plans following equipment incidents.
• Ensure compliance with safety procedures, operational standards, and site policies.
• Support commissioning, testing, and startup of new electrical and mechanical equipment.
• Participate in on-call rotations and emergency response activities as required.
• Maintain accurate documentation, operating procedures, and maintenance records.

Requirements

• 5+ years of experience supporting critical facilities, data centers, industrial facilities, or mission-critical environments.
• Strong knowledge of electrical distribution systems, including switchgear, UPS systems, generators, PDUs, and related infrastructure.
• Strong knowledge of mechanical systems, including HVAC, CRAC/CRAH units, chilled water systems, pumps, and cooling infrastructure.
• Experience leading facility or infrastructure projects.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical one-lines, mechanical drawings, and technical documentation.
• Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
• High school diploma or equivalent required; technical degree or trade certification preferred.

Preferred Qualifications

• Data center or mission-critical facility experience.
• Experience with commissioning and startup activities.
• Knowledge of CMMS platforms and maintenance management practices.
• Electrical, mechanical, or HVAC certifications.
• Experience working in environments requiring high uptime and reliability.

Skills

• Data center facility operations
• Lead operations
• CRAC/CRAH, RTUs, PDUs
• ATS/STS, UPS
• HVAC, chillers
• Switchgear, transformers
• Diesel generators
• Equipment troubleshooting
• Facilities maintenance
• Electrical and mechanical systems
• Equipment testing