Mechanical Engineering Lead, Data Centers - Remote (U.S.)

AECOM•Chicago, IL

2d•$200,000 - $240,000•Remote

About The Position

AECOM is seeking a Mechanical Engineering Lead to serve as the Data Center Mechanical Engineer Lead on hyperscale data center projects. The role designs and oversees construction of mechanical systems, including HVAC, piping, plumbing, and fire suppression, supporting the reliability, efficiency, and safety of data center infrastructure. It is a hands-on, client-facing position involving collaboration with global teams on high-profile, fast-paced projects, with opportunities for career mobility. The position is primarily remote and may be based in the United States where AECOM has an office. Although based in Arlington, Virginia, other AECOM office locations and remote work may be available under certain circumstances. Occasional, advance-scheduled travel may be required for client meetings, project milestones, onsite collaboration, or other business-critical activities. Employees must attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office. The Mechanical Engineering Lead serves as the principal client contact, coordinates multidisciplinary project delivery, leads the mechanical team, and supports projects through design, construction, and commissioning. The role also evaluates system performance and energy use, recommends improvements and technologies, and ensures compliance with applicable industry standards, codes, and regulations.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and 10 years of relevant mechanical design and/or engineering experience focused on data center infrastructure, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
Professional Engineer (P.E.) license is required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering and 12 years of relevant mechanical design and/or engineering experience focused on data center infrastructure, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education.
Extensive mechanical engineering experience with data centers or other critical facilities.
Strong knowledge of HVAC, piping, and fire suppression system design and construction.
Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
Ability to think creatively and identify opportunities to enhance the client experience.
Experience with computer-aided design (CAD) and building information modeling (BIM) software.
Experience with data center design and construction, including design criteria and industry standards.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary client contact and respond to inquiries and concerns in a timely, professional manner.
Build and maintain client relationships and communicate regularly to understand client needs and expectations.
Coordinate across disciplines and lead the mechanical engineering team, including HVAC, fire protection, and plumbing, to deliver projects within budget and schedule.
Develop detailed specifications for mechanical equipment, including pumps, fans, and air handling units.
Prepare reports for internal and external purposes based on findings.
Ensure discipline plans meet overall project requirements for scope and schedule.
Stay current on codes and technologies relevant to mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection systems for hyperscale data centers.
Analyze mechanical system performance, identify areas for improvement, and recommend upgrades.
Provide technical support during construction, respond to RFIs, and address arising issues.
Attend job site visits, project meetings, and commissioning activities as needed.
Ensure compliance with industry standards, codes, and regulations.
Evaluate and recommend technologies and equipment to improve system performance and reduce operational costs.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical and mechanical engineers, to integrate chiller systems with other data center infrastructure.
Analyze energy usage and identify opportunities for optimization and cost savings.