Director, Data Center Engineering

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San Francisco / $180000 - $350000 annum

INFO

Salary

SALARY:

$180000 - $350000

Location

LOCATION

San Francisco

Job Type
JOB TYPE

Permanent

Director, Data Center Engineering

Location: San Francisco, CA / Remote (U.S.)
Full-Time

Salary: Up to $350,000 base + bonus + equity

Overview

We are seeking a Director of Data Center Engineering to lead the design, innovation, and optimization of next-generation, large-scale data center infrastructure. This is a high-impact leadership role responsible for shaping future-ready, highly resilient, and energy-efficient environments supporting rapid growth in cloud and AI-driven workloads.
You will work at the intersection of engineering, construction, and operations, driving engineering strategy across a multi-site or global portfolio while influencing executive-level decisions on infrastructure investments and design standards.

What You'll Do
Strategic Engineering Leadership

Own and evolve data center engineering strategy aligned with long-term capacity and growth objectives
Lead the design and standardization of electrical and mechanical systems across new builds and retrofits
Establish and scale global engineering standards, design frameworks, and best practices

Design & Innovation

Drive the development of next-generation architectures (high-density compute, GPU/AI-ready environments)
Champion efficiency and sustainability initiatives, including PUE reduction and carbon impact goals
Evaluate and deploy emerging technologies (liquid cooling, modular builds, advanced power systems)

Cross-Functional Partnership

Partner closely with construction, operations, and capacity planning teams to ensure seamless delivery from design through operations
Support site selection, feasibility studies, and due diligence efforts
Serve as a senior technical advisor to internal leadership and external stakeholders

Performance & Optimization

Lead initiatives focused on reliability, scalability, and lifecycle optimization
Drive continuous improvement through data-driven analysis and performance metrics
Ensure designs meet or exceed Tier III/IV uptime and redundancy standards

Preferred Qualifications

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, or related field)
Professional certifications (PE, PMP, or equivalent)
Experience in hyperscale cloud, AI infrastructure, or top-tier colocation environments
Background in Lean, Six Sigma, or operational excellence methodologies

Requirements

Must be authorized to work in the U.S. (no sponsorship available)

Why This Role

Direct influence on next-gen infrastructure powering AI and cloud growth
Visible, high-impact role with executive exposure
Competitive compensation: top-of-market base + equity upside
Opportunity to shape global engineering standards and innovation roadmap



CONTACT

Stephanie Landa

Principal Recruitment Consultant

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