Lead Mechanical Engineer – AI Data Centers

Lead Mechanical Engineer – AI Data Centers An innovative AI data center startup is redefining the future of computer infrastructure to support the exponential growth of artificial intelligence, machine learning, and high-performance computing. To power these advanced workloads, the company is seeking a Lead Mechanical Engineer – AI Data Centers to design and scale state-of-the-art thermal management solutions, including direct liquid-to-chip cooling and next-generation mechanical systems. This is a rare opportunity to lead the design of mission-critical cooling systems at the forefront of global AI infrastructure, with full ownership of mechanical strategy across a rapidly growing portfolio of ultra-dense data centers. This Role Offers: Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives. Fully remote flexibility with occasional travel to project sites and partner facilities. Leadership role in designing the next generation of AI infrastructure at a global scale. Access to significant capital resources and backing to execute cutting-edge projects. Collaborative, forward-thinking startup culture with high visibility and long-term growth opportunities. Focus: Lead the full mechanical design and engineering of AI-optimized data centers utilizing next-generation cooling solutions, including direct liquid-to-chip cooling, immersion cooling, and hybrid systems. Architect highly efficient thermal management systems to support extremely high rack densities, GPU-intensive workloads, and rapid deployment models. Collaborate with cross-functional teams including electrical, controls, networking, IT operations, and facility construction to deliver integrated solutions. Evaluate, select, and implement cutting-edge technologies in heat rejection, fluid distribution, and advanced materials for maximum system efficiency and reliability. Manage partnerships with vendors, OEMs, contractors, and commissioning teams to deliver projects on time and within budget. Develop and enforce mechanical engineering standards, design guides, operating procedures, and commissioning protocols for scalable deployment across global sites. Analyze system performance, conduct failure mode analysis, and drive continuous optimization for uptime, efficiency, and resiliency. Lead innovation efforts to incorporate modular, sustainable, and energy-efficient mechanical designs. Skill Set: 10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in data centers, semiconductor fabs, high-density compute, or mission-critical facilities. Proven expertise designing and implementing advanced cooling technologies, including liquid-to-chip, cold plate, immersion cooling, or hybrid cooling systems. Deep knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and phase change technologies. Experience with high-density AI/ML workloads, GPU compute clusters, or HPC environments. Familiarity with codes and standards including ASHRAE, Uptime Institute, ANSI, NFPA, and relevant international standards. Skilled in simulation tools such as CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) modeling and thermal performance analysis. Ability to lead teams through all project phases from concept design through commissioning and operational handover. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering required. PE license strongly preferred. Preferred Experience: Experience designing mechanical infrastructure to support rack power densities exceeding 120kW. Exposure to modular and prefabricated data center design models. Familiarity with advanced water treatment systems, energy recovery systems, and low-pue design targets. Master’s degree or advanced technical certifications a plus.