The Mechanical Subject Matter Expert (SME) serves as the foremost technical leader for HVAC and fluid systems within a mission-critical data center environment. This hands-on role is responsible for optimizing mechanical system reliability and performance, leading technical training initiatives, supporting operations and maintenance activities, and providing expert guidance to Facilities and Commissioning Engineers.
The SME acts as a mentor, trainer, and technical resource while ensuring operational excellence and continuous improvement across all mechanical systems.
Primary ResponsibilitiesMechanical Systems Leadership- Optimize the reliability, efficiency, and performance of mechanical systems within data centers.
- Enhance team capabilities to safely operate, maintain, troubleshoot, and repair mechanical systems.
- Oversee preparation, execution, and quality control of all mechanical maintenance activities.
- Develop, review, and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Method of Procedures (MOPs), and Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs).
- Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) investigations for mechanical system failures, faults, and operational events.
- Manage vendor and contractor relationships supporting mechanical system operations and maintenance.
- Train Facility Engineers on mechanical system fundamentals during qualification and onboarding processes.
- Deliver formal classroom and hands-on technical training to data center operations personnel.
- Mentor Facilities and Commissioning Engineers in both field and classroom environments.
- Support ongoing employee development and technical qualification initiatives.
- Ensure maintenance and operational activities are performed according to industry best practices.
- Promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Support critical environment operations and emergency response activities.
- Minimum of 8 years of experience in a mechanical role within a mission-critical environment; OR
- ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology with a minimum of 4 years of relevant experience.
- Comprehensive experience performing mechanical operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical schematics, drawings, and technical documentation.
- Working knowledge of electrical controls and fire suppression/alarm systems associated with mission-critical facilities.
- Familiarity with brazing, grinding, refrigerant handling, and HVAC repair practices.
- Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary technical environments.
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
- Demonstrated commitment to professional growth and technical development.
- ABET-accredited Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology.
- Master HVAC License.
- EPA Universal Section 608 Technician Certification.
- OEM certifications for:
- Chillers
- CRAH Units
- RTUs
- DOAS Systems
- Split Systems
- Diesel Generators
- Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA) certification.
- Certified Mission Critical Operator (CMCO) credential.
- Familiarity with:
- NFPA Standards
- ASHRAE Standards
- International Mechanical Code (IMC)
- Previous data center industry experience.
- Foster and maintain a strong team culture.
- Achieve 100% completion of assigned Talent LMS training courses.
- Maintain 100% adherence to company culture, policies, procedures, and best practices.
- Support organizational goals through collaboration, accountability, and leadership.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 40 pounds.
- Ability to climb ladders and multiple flights of stairs.
- Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
- Ability to bend, kneel, stoop, and work in confined spaces as required.
- Strong hand-eye coordination and manual dexterity.
- Ability to distinguish color-coded labels, cables, and warning indicators.
- Ability to move quickly and efficiently throughout facility environments.
- Ability to work in varying indoor temperatures and outdoor weather conditions.
- Ability to work in high-noise environments while wearing required hearing protection.
- Ability to respond effectively to emergency situations.
Employees must maintain awareness of and comply with all applicable safety procedures, including:
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
- Fall Protection and Ladder Safety
- Arc Flash Awareness
- Power Lift Vehicle/Scissor Lift Awareness
- Hazard Communication Standards
- Confined Space Awareness
This position operates within mission-critical data center environments and requires hands-on interaction with mechanical infrastructure systems. The role may involve working in elevated, confined, noisy, indoor, and outdoor environments while supporting 24/7 critical operations.
If you are a motivated and results-driven individual with a passion for data center services and a knack for building strong client relationships, we want to hear from you. Join us in revolutionizing the data center industry and apply today!
Salute is an equal opportunity employer committed to celebrating diversity, creating an inclusive environment for all employees, and providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants; if you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact our Human Resources department at [email protected] for more information.
Skills Required
- At least 8 years of experience in a mechanical role within a mission-critical environment, or an ABET-accredited bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology with at least 4 years of relevant experience.
- Experience performing mechanical operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs.
- Ability to read and interpret mechanical schematics, drawings, and technical documentation.
- Working knowledge of electrical controls and fire suppression and alarm systems associated with mission-critical facilities.
- Familiarity with brazing, grinding, refrigerant handling, and HVAC repair practices.
- Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary technical environments.
- Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
- Demonstrated commitment to professional growth and technical development.
- ABET-accredited bachelor's degree in Engineering or Engineering Technology.
- Master HVAC License.
- EPA Universal Section 608 Technician Certification.
- OEM certifications for chillers, CRAH units, RTUs, DOAS systems, split systems, or diesel generators.
- Data Center Certified Associate certification.
- Certified Mission Critical Operator credential.
- Familiarity with NFPA Standards, ASHRAE Standards, and the International Mechanical Code.
- Previous data center industry experience.
- Ability to lift and carry equipment weighing up to 40 pounds and work in elevated, confined, noisy, indoor, and outdoor environments.
- Ability to respond effectively to emergency situations and comply with required safety procedures.
What We Do
We provide high-end technical and professional services for the entire lifecycle of data centers. With a commitment to quality, precision, innovation, technology, and sustainability, we empower people and the industry’s ecosystem. Our goal is to transform data center operations worldwide through greater efficiencies, sharing knowledge, realizing demonstrable value, and by building long-term relationships. Delivering sustainable outcomes – it starts and ends with us.
