Manager, Engineering (Power Generation)

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

ABOUT THE ROLE:

As the Power Generation Engineering Manager at xAI, you will lead the engineering, design, and optimization of large-scale power generation systems to power our next-generation AI superclusters. You will own the technical strategy for reliable, high-capacity power infrastructure — from gas turbines and combined-cycle plants to emerging technologies — ensuring uninterrupted power for our mission-critical AI training facilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead the engineering design, specification, procurement, and commissioning of large-scale power generation systems (50MW+)
• Develop and optimize power generation strategies focused on maximum reliability, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness for 24/7 AI workloads
• Manage and grow a team of power generation, mechanical, electrical, and controls engineers
• Partner closely with Site Selection, Construction, Operations, and Utilities teams on new data center campuses
• Evaluate and implement technologies including natural gas turbines, reciprocating engines, battery storage, fuel cells, and hybrid systems
• Ensure all systems meet N+2 or higher redundancy, availability, and safety standards
• Oversee technical due diligence for utility interconnects, power purchase agreements, and behind-the-meter generation
• Drive performance improvements in efficiency, emissions, and operational flexibility
• Stay current on regulatory, environmental, and grid compliance requirements

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Power Engineering, or related field
• 10+ years of experience in power generation engineering and project delivery
• 4+ years of people management or technical leadership experience
• Deep expertise in gas turbine, reciprocating engine, or combined-cycle power plant design and operation
• Proven success delivering large-scale power projects on time and on budget

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience supporting hyperscale data centers or AI infrastructure
• Background working with EPC contractors, major OEMs (GE, Siemens, Wärtsilä, etc.), and utilities
• Knowledge of energy markets, fuel supply chains, microgrids, and emerging technologies (e.g., hydrogen-ready systems)
• Professional Engineer (PE) license or advanced degree
• Strong project management and cross-functional leadership skills

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, ambiguous environment and make high-impact technical decisions
• Willingness to travel to xAI sites as needed
• Passion for building infrastructure at unprecedented scale to advance AI

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