ABOUT THE ROLE:
We are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Commissioning Technician to support the buildout and startup of xAI’s high-performance data centers. In this critical hands-on role, you will perform commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of mechanical systems that provide cooling, air handling, and fluid distribution for our next-generation AI supercomputing infrastructure.
You will work closely with construction, engineering, and operations teams to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality mechanical systems from initial installation through full system turnover. This is a full-time, onsite role with significant travel to xAI data center sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Execute mechanical commissioning activities for HVAC systems, chillers, cooling towers, CRAC/CRAH units, pumps, heat exchangers, piping systems, and associated controls in data center environments.
- Perform functional testing, airflow and water flow verification, system balancing, and integrated system performance validation.
- Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, controls, and hydronic issues during pre-commissioning, commissioning, and startup phases.
- Develop and execute detailed commissioning test procedures, checklists, and documentation in accordance with project specifications and industry standards.
- Collaborate with EPC contractors, OEM vendors, and xAI engineers to coordinate system energization, startup sequences, and integrated system testing.
- Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, LOTO procedures, and quality standards during all commissioning activities.
- Maintain accurate as-built documentation, test records, and commissioning reports.
- Support training of operations and maintenance teams on commissioned mechanical systems.
- Participate in constructability reviews and provide field feedback to improve design and installation quality.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- 3+ years of hands-on mechanical commissioning or field technician experience in data centers, power plants, or large industrial facilities.
- Strong working knowledge of data center cooling systems including chillers, cooling towers, pumps, CRAC/CRAH units, and precision air handling.
- Experience with commissioning test equipment (manometers, anemometers, flow meters, temperature/pressure calibrators, etc.).
- Familiarity with relevant codes and standards (ASHRAE, SMACNA, NFPA, ASME, IMC).
- Demonstrated ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, P&IDs, and control schematics.
- Strong safety mindset with current OSHA 10/30 or equivalent training.
- Willingness to work extended hours, nights, and weekends during critical commissioning windows.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Prior commissioning experience on hyperscale data center projects or mission-critical facilities.
- NEBB, AABC, or equivalent certification in testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB).
- Experience with BMS/BAS controls troubleshooting and integration (BACnet, Modbus, etc.).
- Knowledge of chilled water systems, refrigerant systems, and high-density liquid cooling technologies.
- Proficiency with commissioning management software (e.g., CxPro, Procore, or similar).
- Technical degree or trade school certification in Mechanical Engineering Technology, HVAC, or related field.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to travel extensively to xAI construction sites and remain onsite during peak commissioning phases.
- Capability to work in industrial environments, climb ladders, lift moderate loads, and wear PPE for extended periods.
