Principle Mechanical HVAC Engineer - Data Centres

Job Description

Job Title: Principal Mechanical Engineer - HVAC Data Centres

Job Overview:

As a Principal Mechanical Engineer you will take a leadership role in the design and implementation of HVAC (Heating Ventilation and Air Conditioning) systems for large-scale data centre projects. You will lead the mechanical engineering team ensuring that HVAC systems are designed for maximum energy efficiency reliability and performance while meeting the specific cooling requirements of high-density computing environments. You will oversee HVAC system design integrate mechanical systems into overall data centre design and ensure compliance with codes standards and client specifications.

Key Responsibilities:

• HVAC System Design: Lead the design of HVAC systems for mission-critical data centers including cooling solutions air handling and ventilation systems ensuring optimum airflow and temperature control to support IT equipment and server performance.
• Thermal Load Analysis: Perform detailed thermal load calculations and energy modeling for data centres ensuring that the HVAC systems are capable of meeting the heat dissipation requirements of high-density computing environments.
• System Integration: Collaborate with electrical civil and structural engineers to integrate HVAC systems with other building systems ensuring that designs are cohesive and that all systems operate in synergy.
• Project Leadership: Oversee mechanical HVAC aspects of data centre projects from conceptual design through construction and commissioning ensuring that systems are delivered on time within budget and according to project specifications.
• Energy Efficiency & Sustainability: Implement energy-efficient HVAC solutions and advocate for the use of innovative cooling technologies including liquid cooling free cooling and heat recovery systems. Work to achieve optimal Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) and sustainability goals.
• Team Leadership & Mentorship: Lead mentor and support a team of mechanical engineers in HVAC design and implementation promoting professional development and fostering a collaborative results-oriented work environment.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure HVAC designs comply with all relevant codes standards and regulations (e.g. ASHRAE LEED NFPA local building codes) and meet safety and quality assurance requirements.
• Commissioning & Troubleshooting: Oversee HVAC system commissioning startup and performance testing. Provide expert troubleshooting during construction and operational phases to resolve issues efficiently.
• Continuous Improvement & Innovation: Stay up-to-date with emerging technologies in HVAC and data centre cooling solutions. Implement best practices innovative design solutions and sustainable practices to keep our designs ahead of the curve.
• Client & Stakeholder Communication: Collaborate with clients architects contractors and other stakeholders to ensure designs meet client needs and expectations. Provide technical expertise and ensure seamless communication throughout the project lifecycle.
• Tender & Commercial support: Provide input into bids and tenders and participate in client meetings to help secure work or extend scope of works.

Experience:

• 10 years of experience in mechanical engineering with a focus on HVAC systems design for mission-critical facilities particularly data centres.
• Proven track record of leading HVAC design for large-scale data centres or similar high-demand environments.
• Deep knowledge of HVAC systems including CRAC (Computer Room Air Conditioning) CRAH (Computer Room Air Handling) chilled water systems airside and waterside economization and advanced cooling technologies.
• Familiarity with industry-standard tools and software such as AutoCAD Revit TRANE Trace Carrier HAP or similar energy modeling software.
• Experience with energy efficiency strategies sustainability certifications (LEED BREEAM etc.) and integrating renewable energy or energy-saving technologies into HVAC systems.
• Experience in coordinating with multidisciplinary teams (e.g. electrical civil structural engineers) to integrate HVAC solutions into complex data centre projects.

Skills:

• Strong technical expertise in mechanical and HVAC systems design with an in-depth understanding of thermal load calculations airflow management cooling capacities and redundancy planning.
• Proficient in mechanical system modeling simulation and performance analysis.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with experience mentoring junior engineers.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to present technical information to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced deadline-driven environment and manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Familiarity with global HVAC standards and local regulations.

Qualifications:

Education:

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (Masters degree is a plus).