Data Center Build Lead & Chief Engineer (Equity)

Appleton Finn; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 190,000 - 270,000; Full time

Job summary

Appleton Finn in Dallas, TX seeks a seasoned MEP Manager to serve as Owner's Representative through construction and commissioning of a new data center, with a transition to Chief Engineer upon completion.

You will lead MEP activities, oversee testing and commissioning, develop SOPs, and mentor a growing team as the site scales toward operations, ensuring uptime-ready systems before go-live.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in data center operations or mission-critical environments.
• Proven leadership experience managing technical teams.
• Expert knowledge of UPS, generator systems, power distribution, and BMS.
• Strong decision-making ability under uptime-critical pressure.

Responsibilities

• Serve as Owner's Representative for all MEP activity during construction.
• Lead Factory Witness Testing and oversee acceptance of critical equipment.
• Develop and implement MOPs and SOPs for safe, compliant operations.
• Oversee capacity planning for power, space, and network resources as site comes online.
• Lead incident response and root cause analysis during construction and commissioning.
• Mentor and develop a team of engineers and facilities staff.
• Report on project performance, risks, and improvements to leadership.

Skills

Data center operations

Leadership

UPS & power systems

HVAC & BMS

Decision making

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or Facilities Management

Job description

Appleton Finn in Dallas, TX seeks a seasoned MEP Manager to serve as Owner's Representative through construction and commissioning of a new data center, with a transition to Chief Engineer upon completion.

You will lead MEP activities, oversee testing and commissioning, develop SOPs, and mentor a growing team as the site scales toward operations, ensuring uptime-ready systems before go-live.