Data Center Architect (SME)

Tailored Solutions, LLC.; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 180,000 - 240,000; Full time

Job summary

Tailored Solutions, LLC. is seeking a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Data Center Architect to assess and modernize enterprise IT infrastructure in the National Capital Region.

The role is on-site and requires active TS/SCI clearance, with responsibilities spanning facility assessment, power and network architecture reviews, and modernization planning. The successful candidate will deliver authoritative guidance on facility infrastructure, systems architecture, and compliance with Uptime Institute

Qualifications

• Active TS/SCI clearance; may require eligibility determinations.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, IT, or related field with 10+ years experience.
• Minimum 10 years in data center design, operations or infrastructure evaluation.
• Expert knowledge of data center power distribution, UPS, generator backup, and electrical infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of Uptime Institute Tier Standards and data center certification processes.
• Proficiency in network architecture evaluation including structured cabling and fiber optics.
• Experience with IT infrastructure requirements, security and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical, documentation, and leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive data center assessments to evaluate upgrade feasibility vs replacement.
• Perform infrastructure analysis on power, utilization, and capacity for sustainability and scalability.
• Evaluate network architecture and underlying systems in detail.
• Apply Uptime Institute Tier Standards and TIA-942 standards to assessments.
• Develop assessment reports with technical justification and implementation plans.
• Collaborate with facility managers, network engineers, and leadership to align findings with missions.
• Identify risks and deficiencies and propose mitigation strategies.
• Provide expert consultation on modernization roadmaps and implementation planning.

Skills

TS/SCI clearance

Data center design

Infrastructure evaluation

Power distribution expertise

Documentation skills

Executive collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Information Technology

Master's degree (relevant field)

Tools

Uptime Institute Tier Standards (I-IV)

TIA-942 standards

Job description

Tailored Solutions is hiring a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Data Center Architect to support the assessment and modernization of enterprise IT infrastructure, evaluating data center facilities to modernize, secure, and harden the environment. The role is on-site in the National Capital Region.

You will assess applicable data centers to determine their suitability for upgrade, modernization, or replacement, and provide authoritative guidance on facility infrastructure, systems architecture, and compliance with industry standards so that mission-critical, no-fail communications capabilities meet current and future operational requirements.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive data center assessments to evaluate existing facilities for upgrade feasibility versus replacement.
• Perform detailed infrastructure analysis, including power systems, utilization, and capacity, to determine operational sustainability and scalability.
• Evaluate network architecture and the underlying systems and frameworks in detail.
• Apply industry standards and best practices from governing bodies such as the Uptime Institute (Tier classifications) and TIA-942, plus program-specific requirements.
• Develop assessment reports and recommendations with technical justification and implementation strategies.
• Collaborate with facility managers, network engineers, and program leadership to align technical findings with mission requirements.
• Identify risks, gaps, and deficiencies in current data center operations and propose mitigation strategies.
• Provide expert consultation on data center modernization roadmaps and implementation planning.

Required skills and experience

• Active TS/SCI clearance. Must successfully complete additional customer security eligibility and compatibility determinations.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field, with 10 or more years of experience.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in data center design, operations, or infrastructure evaluation, with extensive senior-level hands-on experience.
• Expert knowledge of data center power distribution, UPS systems, generator backup, and electrical infrastructure.
• Comprehensive understanding of Uptime Institute Tier Standards (I through IV) and data center certification processes.
• Proficiency in network architecture evaluation, including structured cabling, fiber optics, and connectivity standards.
• Experience with IT infrastructure requirements, security protocols, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical and documentation skills, with the ability to produce detailed technical assessment reports.
• Strong presentation and interpersonal skills across all levels of senior leadership.

Preferred skills and experience

• 15 or more years of experience in data center design, operations, or infrastructure evaluation.
• Professional certification such as Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer (ATD) or Accredited Tier Specialist (ATS), Certified Data Centre Professional (CDCP) or Specialist (CDCS), or a Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Demonstrated expertise in HVAC systems, cooling technologies (air-cooled, liquid-cooled, containment strategies), and thermal management.
• Knowledge of TIA-942 Data Center Standards and BICSI data center design principles.
• Familiarity with federal data center optimization initiatives (DCOI) and cloud migration strategies.
• Experience with critical infrastructure risk assessment and business continuity planning.
• Background in Department of War communications systems and classified network environments.
• Experience supporting executive-level or national-leadership communications operations.
• Previous program management or technical leadership experience on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Master's degree in a relevant technical discipline.