Mechanical Engineer (HVAC / Chilled Water)

About xAI

xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge.

Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity.

We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important.

All engineers and researchers are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and detail-oriented Mechanical Engineer (HVAC/Chilled Water) to design, analyze, and oversee the implementation of advanced mechanical systems for our cutting-edge facilities. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in HVAC systems, chilled water distribution, and thermal management. This role is critical to ensuring the efficiency, reliability, and scalability of our facility’s mechanical infrastructure. The engineer will collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to develop solutions that align with our operational goals while adhering to industry standards and sustainability practices.

Requirements

Design & Planning:

• Lead or participate in design meetings for chilled water systems in new data center builds and expansions, focusing on a mechanical perspective.
• Conduct feasibility studies and develop detailed specifications for chilled water system components, including chillers, cooling towers, pumps, and piping.
• Oversee the complete design and construction process, including permitting, for chilled water systems.

System Implementation:

• Assist in overseeing the installation of chilled water systems, ensuring compliance with industry standards (like ASHRAE, ANSI), safety regulations, and company policies.
• Provide guidance on system integration, ensuring seamless coordination with electrical and other mechanical systems.

Operations & Maintenance:

• Contribute to managing the maintenance schedule for chilled water systems, ensuring optimal efficiency and reliability.
• Assist in troubleshooting efforts for chilled water issues, minimizing downtime and enhancing system performance.

Capacity Management:

• Analyze and forecast cooling needs based on current and projected IT loads.
• Implement strategies for energy efficiency and cost reduction related to chilled water systems.

Project Coordination:

• Assist in project management for major infrastructure projects involving chilled water systems, from conception through to commissioning.
• Coordinate with external vendors, contractors, and internal departments to ensure project timelines are met.

Compliance & Safety:

• Ensure all work complies with local, state, and federal regulations concerning mechanical systems.
• Promote a safe working environment, adhering to all safety protocols.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field. Master's degree preferred.
• Professional Engineer (PE) license is mandatory.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of relevant experience in data center operations, with a focus on chilled water systems.
• Expert knowledge of the complete design and construction process, including permitting, for chilled water systems.
• Expertise in HVAC systems, particularly chilled water systems (chillers, cooling towers, pumps, piping).
• Proficient with CAD tools like AutoCAD or Revit for design documentation.
• Strong project management skills with experience in contributing to large-scale data center projects.
• Excellent communication, collaboration, and problem-solving skills.
• Certifications like ASHRAE or similar are a plus.

Additional Requirements

• Position is subject to pre-employment drug and random drug and alcohol testing.
• Position is subject to pre-employment and annual post-employment background checks. 
• Comfortable working in an environment requiring exposure to noise.
• Available to work evenings and weekends, as the schedule varies depending on site operational needs; flexibility is required.

xAI is an equal opportunity employer and does not unlawfully discriminate based on race, color, religion, ethnicity, ancestry, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, age, disability, medical conditions, genetic information, marital status, military or veteran status, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics. 

Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance for Employers, and the California Fair Chance Act. 

For Los Angeles County (unincorporated) Candidates:

xAI reasonably believes that criminal history may have a direct, adverse and negative relationship on the following job duties, potentially resulting in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment: 

• Access to information technology systems and confidential information, including proprietary and trade secret information, and/or user data;
• Interacting with internal and/or external clients and colleagues; and
• Exercising sound judgment.

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