Project Manager - Data Center

Smardt•Phoenix, AZ

About The Position

As a global pioneer in oil-free centrifugal chiller technology with an expanding portfolio of thermal management solutions, Smardt is dedicated to delivering high-efficiency and energy-saving systems for industries, real estate developments, healthcare, and educational centers worldwide. We operate manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Canada, Germany, China, and Australia, with a team of over 900 employees. With a focus on reliability, performance, and environmental stewardship, Smardt continues to redefine industry standards through advanced engineering and a commitment to a more sustainable future. What We’re Looking For The Project Manager – Data Centers is responsible for leading the execution of HVAC and mission-critical cooling projects from sales handover through commissioning and warranty. This role ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with technical and contractual requirements, while maintaining high customer satisfaction and strong stakeholder relationships.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in project management within HVAC, mechanical, or mission-critical environments
Experience in data centers, building automation, or complex mechanical/electrical systems
Strong understanding of project execution processes and lifecycle
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, drawings, and project scope
Familiarity with commissioning processes (FAT, SAT, IST)
Experience with project management tools (MS Project, Primavera, Monday.com)
Strong execution focus and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
Structured communication and stakeholder management skills
Financial and commercial acumen
Proactive risk identification and problem-solving mindset
High level of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail
Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments

Nice To Haves

PMP certification or equivalent project management training (preferred)
Experience managing data center or mission-critical cooling projects
Experience working with hyperscale or colocation clients (e.g., AWS, Microsoft, Google)

Responsibilities

Oversee a portfolio of HVAC data center projects, ensuring seamless execution from sales handover through commissioning and warranty
Manage projects in alignment with established PMO standards, tools, and governance frameworks
Lead day-to-day execution, providing direction to site teams, subcontractors, and supporting functions
Ensure projects are delivered in accordance with contractual requirements, on schedule, within budget, and with high customer satisfaction
Maintain accurate project schedules, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring proactive follow-up on critical path activities
Manage delivery of the contracted scope, ensuring full alignment with technical specifications and client requirements
Proactively identify scope gaps and secure change orders for any deviations or additional work
Coordinate materials, equipment, and shared resources across functions (engineering, manufacturing, service)
Identify resource constraints and partner with leadership to implement corrective action plans
Ensure alignment between project schedules and manufacturing / supply chain timelines
Act as the primary interface for customers, including data center operators, general contractors (GCs), and commissioning agents
Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders through structured and proactive communication
Manage subcontractors and partners, ensuring performance, quality, and schedule adherence
Provide regular project updates (schedule, risks, financials) to internal and external stakeholders
Escalate issues in a timely and structured manner, driving resolution and maintaining customer confidence
Take ownership of the financial performance of assigned projects, including margin and cost control
Identify financial risks and implement mitigation actions to protect project profitability
Drive disciplined cost tracking and reforecasting throughout the project lifecycle
Develop strong technical knowledge of HVAC systems used in data centers (chillers, cooling plants, controls integration)
Support and coordinate commissioning activities including FAT, SAT, and Integrated System Testing (IST)
Analyze technical issues and coordinate cross-functional teams to resolve design, installation, or performance challenges
Review drawings, specifications, and submittals to ensure alignment with project requirements
Lead or support root cause analysis (RCA / 8D) and implementation of corrective actions