Director, Mechanical Engineering, NA

About this role

About Vantage Data Centers

Vantage Data Centers powers, cools, protects and connects the technology of the world’s well-known hyperscalers, cloud providers and large enterprises. Developing and operating across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific, Vantage has evolved data center design in innovative ways to deliver dramatic gains in reliability, efficiency and sustainability in flexible environments that can scale as quickly as the market demands.

Design Engineering Department The Design & Engineering (D&E) team drives the technology, innovation and new development of data center infrastructure across Vantage’s companywide portfolio. D&E evaluates new sites, drives cost and scheduling in line with corporate goals and serves as Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) across the entire project lifecycle from concept through commissioning. The team collaborates with Sales, Operations and management along the way. D&E also works hand-in-hand with the Construction team to come up with a vertically integrated design and ensures new and existing standards and designs are executed effectively. At the heart of our vision is the creation of critical infrastructure that facilitates human connection, creativity, sharing, and collective aspirations. Our mission revolves around providing our Customers with consistently exceptional facilities swiftly and enjoying the process while doing so. This dedication extends to our Customers, Construction teams, and Site Operations teams.

One thing that distinguishes Vantage is that our technical staff are given the responsibility and authority to directly drive tangible results. Our team can align long-term operational sustainability with value engineering and cost metrics to deliver products aligned with corporate goals. This approach empowers each member of the team to drive high-impact decisions and results.

The Design Engineering team guides the development and operation of best-in-class data centers for hyperscale customers by providing business-minding Design and Engineering expertise.

Position Overview This role can be based in any of our US locations: Denver, CO; Phoenix, AZ; Santa Clara, CA; or Ashburn, VA in alignment with our flexible work policy (3 days onsite, 2 days flexible).

Vantage is looking for a driven Director, Mechanical Engineering to provide overall leadership for our development of data center space for current and future projects.  This position will oversee the mechanical aspect of new product development, new industry design trends, innovations, changes in code requirements and all aspects of Design Engineering.  As a leader, you will be responsible for managing a team with multiple projects related and product development tasks with competing priorities ensuring all projects are in alignment with strategic corporate objectives.  Collaboration and integration in the sales lifecycle process including client interface is integral to the role.  Constant communication with facilities operation, sales and marketing department and other subject matter experts will ensure that the design of new facilities will maintain and enhance Vantage’s product and service offering. 

Essential Job Functions Strategic Leadership • Define and drive the vision for design and engineering initiatives, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and industry best practices.

• Lead strategic planning for engineering projects, balancing innovation with operational excellence.

• Evaluate emerging technologies and design methodologies to enhance enterprise value and maintain competitive advantage.

• Represent the organization in industry forums and maintain strong engagement with the data center engineering community to stay ahead of trends.

Influence & Collaboration • Build strong relationships across internal teams (Construction, Mission Critical Operation, Market Development, Sales) and external stakeholders (Consultants, Vendors, Contractors).

• Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, providing insights that influence business strategy and product development.

• Foster a culture of collaboration and innovation through initiatives like the “Employee Think Tank,” ensuring ideas are heard and acted upon.

• Communicate effectively with department leadership through reports and presentations that drive informed decision-making.

Autonomy & Decision-Making • Exercise independent judgment in managing engineering activities from concept through commissioning across the portfolio.

• Drive design and engineering decisions to conclusion, balancing technical requirements, budget constraints, and business priorities.

• Oversee consultant/vendor qualification and make recommendations for technology adoption and deployment.

• Ensure lessons learned are integrated into processes to promote continuous improvement.

Managerial Capacity • Provide thought leadership and accountability for team performance, budget, and schedule adherence.

• Oversee QA/QC processes, while mentoring and developing engineering staff, fostering professional growth and technical excellence.

• Manage team workload effectively to maintain balance, drive efficiency while ensuring timely delivery of high-quality work products.

• Recruit, lead, and manage high-performing mechanical SME team – driving collaboration, accountability, and delivering excellence.

Nature of Work • Lead all aspects of Mechanical Design and Engineering, including site assessment, conceptual design, basis of design, scope of work, and development of construction documents.

• Oversee inputs and deliverables to guarantee that new data center spaces meet all applicable requirements (BOD, specifications, codes, leases, etc.), while fostering a culture of continuous improvement and added value.

• Develop and refine design standards to align with company vision and industry benchmarks.

• Coordinate with site operations to define project requirements and design criteria and provide support for any issues that arise on

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