Data Center Mechanical Subject Matter Expert

Salute is a leading provider of cutting-edge Data Center Infrastructure Services, dedicated to serving data center clients worldwide. We pride ourselves on delivering sustainable solutions, unparalleled reliability, and outstanding customer service. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Mechanical Subject Matter Expert to join our team and drive our relationships with hyperscale clients to new heights.

Position Summary 

The Mechanical Subject Matter Expert (SME) serves as the primary technical authority for all mechanical infrastructure and building systems within a mission-critical data center environment. Reporting to the Data Center Manager, this role ensures safe, reliable, and efficient operation of cooling, water distribution, fire suppression, and mechanical support systems across all facilities. The SME provides expert-level support to operations, maintenance, and engineering teams while driving continuous improvement, compliance, and customer satisfaction through technical leadership and program excellence. 

This is an on-site position located in Afton, TX, with relocation assistance available.

Salary: $120,000 - $140,000

Normal Business Hours

Responsibilities

Technical Expertise & Program Leadership 

• Serve as the onsite technical resource for all mechanical infrastructure systems and equipment, with an emphasis on practical field operation.
• Ensure cross-functional collaboration between the local facility team and applicable regional or global teams.
• Contribute to and maintain the site’s mechanical safety program.
• Develop and maintain all mechanical-related procedures, including EOPs, SOPs, MOPs, and drills, ensuring documentation aligns with client and Salute standards.
• Plan, author, and approve work procedures covering mechanical troubleshooting, repair, retrofit, and maintenance activities, with emphasis on personnel and operational risk mitigation.
• Conduct or oversee hands-on troubleshooting, repair, retrofit, and maintenance of mechanical equipment and systems.
• Oversee mechanical system configurations, upgrades, and component replacements to maintain system integrity and ensure compliance with best practices and change-control processes.
• Provide QA/QC oversight of construction and maintenance activities related to mechanical systems.
• Lead and/or participate in root-cause analysis activities related to mechanical system performance or incidents.
• Manage vendor relationships for mechanical maintenance and retrofit work.
• Provide feedback on global mechanical maintenance strategies and system design improvements.

Compliance, Quality, & Continuous Improvement 

• Ensure all mechanical operations, retrofits, and maintenance activities comply with safety, regulatory, and client requirements.
• Participate in audits, risk assessments, and compliance reviews, identifying deficiencies and implementing corrective actions.
• Support incident investigations, develop after-action documentation, and track improvement initiatives.
• Review and approve mechanical designs, specifications, and shop drawings to verify adherence to standards and operational readiness.
• Evaluate new mechanical technologies, materials, and systems for efficiency and sustainability improvements.
• Track and document equipment trends, performance data, and service reports to identify opportunities for reliability and process improvements.
• Partner with project management teams to ensure new installations meet lifecycle and maintainability standards.

Training, Collaboration, & Stakeholder Support 

• Provide training to Critical Facility Engineers (CFEs) and cross-functional teams on mechanical systems, equipment, procedures, and updates.
• Develop and deliver technical training materials covering mechanical, fire/life safety, and industrial water systems.
• Mentor on-site staff to strengthen mechanical competency and operational safety awareness.
• Collaborate with client representatives and internal teams to align procedures, training programs, and reporting processes.
• Participate in customer governance and performance meetings to ensure mechanical operations align with client expectations.
• Support broader data center operational readiness initiatives, contributing to continuous skill and knowledge development across the organization.

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field required; equivalent experience or trade certification may be considered.
• 7–10 years of experience in mechanical system operations, maintenance, or design, preferably within a mission-critical or industrial environment.
• Strong theoretical and practical understanding of chillers, evaporative cooling, DX systems, water treatment, and fire suppression systems.
• Proficiency in interpreting blueprints, CAD drawings, trend charts, and mechanical plans/specifications.
• Demonstrated ability to develop, review, and implement MOPs, SOPs, and EOPs for mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with building automation systems (BAS), control theory, and equipment sequencing.
• Knowledge of ASHRAE standards, mechanical codes, and preventive maintenance programs.
• Experience with QA/QC of construction projects and retrofit activities
• Strong collaboration skills for working in cross-functional, client-facing environments.
• Trade certification, HVAC license, or professional engineering credential is preferred.
• Experience in data center operations is strongly desired.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and maintenance management software.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, climb ladders, and move safely within mechanical and operational spaces during inspections or maintenance activities.

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.