Chief Engineer Mechanical SME - Data Center

JLL • Colorado City, TX

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Chief Engineer Mechanical SME manages and optimizes critical systems in a high-performance data center environment. The role oversees HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems; maintains critical-environment protocols and Method of Procedure (MOP) processes; and applies mechanical engineering principles to improve data center efficiency and reliability. The position develops cooling solutions for high-density server environments and improves airflow management.

The Chief Engineer develops preventive maintenance schedules, leads root-cause analyses of system failures or inefficiencies, and implements corrective actions and upgrades. The role also advances energy efficiency and sustainability, including initiatives to reduce Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), and ensures compliance with industry standards and local regulations. The engineer oversees safety protocols, mentors facility technicians and engineers, manages infrastructure projects, coordinates with vendors and service providers, and communicates infrastructure status and improvement plans to executive management.

This is an on-site role in Colorado City, Texas. The job requires call-in availability and includes strenuous physical work, including lifting up to 80 pounds, climbing ladders up to 30 feet, working at heights and in extreme temperatures, and driving for long periods. Visa sponsorship is not provided; candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of technical leadership experience in building engineering, with a strong background in HVAC, plumbing, electrical systems, and production equipment repair and maintenance.
• Experience working in data centers or raised-floor environments.
• Universal EPA 608 Certification.
• CRAC (Liebert) maintenance and repair experience.
• Licenses as required by the authority having jurisdiction.
• Two years of trade school or a documented apprenticeship in relevant craft skills.
• Authorization to work in the United States without visa sponsorship.
• Ability to lift up to 80 pounds; work at heights and in extreme hot or cold conditions; frequently climb, bend, lift, kneel, stoop, and work overhead; drive for long periods; and climb a ladder up to 30 feet while carrying an approximately 20-pound tool bag. A ladder used for this work has a 300-pound weight limit.
• Availability for call-in work.

Nice To Haves

• Expertise in one specific craft area: electrical, HVAC, piping/plumbing, central utility plant operations, or material handling equipment.
• Familiarity with building automation systems and fire/life safety.

Responsibilities

• Oversee HVAC, electrical, and plumbing systems specific to data center operations.
• Implement and maintain critical-environment protocols and Method of Procedure (MOP) processes.
• Conduct performance analyses of facility mechanical and electrical systems.
• Apply mechanical engineering principles to improve data center efficiency and reliability.
• Design and implement cooling solutions optimized for high-density server environments.
• Analyze and improve airflow management strategies.
• Develop and execute preventive maintenance schedules for critical infrastructure.
• Lead root-cause analyses of system failures or inefficiencies and implement corrective actions and upgrades.
• Propose and implement energy-saving initiatives to reduce Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).
• Evaluate and integrate green technologies suitable for data center operations.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, such as ASHRAE and ISO, and local regulations.
• Oversee safety protocols and conduct regular safety audits.
• Maintain knowledge of data center best practices and emerging technologies.
• Mentor and guide facility technicians and engineers.
• Manage complex data center infrastructure projects, including expansions and upgrades.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and service providers to support optimal system performance.
• Communicate infrastructure status and improvement plans to executive management.
• Be available for call-in work and perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision care.
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary.
• Paid time off and company holidays.
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay.
• Supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package focused on mental, physical, and emotional health.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed