Data Center Controls Engineer: BMS/EPMS for AI Infrastructure

Hardware FYI; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

OpenAI is seeking a Data Center Controls Engineer to design, program, configure, and commission controls systems for high-density AI data centers. You will work closely with mechanical, electrical, IT, cybersecurity, and operations teams to deliver reliable, tested control solutions.

The role focuses on implementation of PLCs, field devices, instrumentation, and sequences of operation, with periodic travel to campuses and sites. A background in BMS/EPMS or electrical controls is preferred.

Qualifications

• Hands-on experience programming, configuring, integrating, or commissioning control systems in data centers or critical infrastructure.
• Knowledge of PLC programming and control logic; ability to troubleshoot sequences of operation.
• Experience with BMS/mechanical or EPMS/electrical controls is valuable.

Responsibilities

• Program and configure PLCs and control systems for mechanical/BMS or electrical/EPMS applications in AI data center campuses.
• Implement and test sequences of operation, control logic, alarms, and interlocks against functional requirements.
• Review and maintain control diagrams, I/O lists, and commissioning records.
• Integrate field devices, sensors, instrumentation, equipment controllers, and supervisory systems; validate data quality.
• Maintain control programs, backups, version history, and change records.
• Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, IT/networking, cybersecurity, and operations teams on integration and OT connectivity.
• Configure and troubleshoot industrial communications per system requirements.
• Work with integrators, vendors, and commissioning teams to resolve issues.
• Execute factory and site acceptance testing and diagnose control logic and device communications.

Skills

PLC programming

Control systems

BMS/EPMS integration

Field devices validation

I/O mapping

OT networking basics

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering

Controls or Automation Engineering

Equivalent practical experience

Tools

BACnet/IP

Modbus TCP/RTU

OPC UA

IEC 61850

Job description

OpenAI is seeking a Data Center Controls Engineer to design, program, configure, and commission controls systems for high-density AI data centers. You will work closely with mechanical, electrical, IT, cybersecurity, and operations teams to deliver reliable, tested control solutions.

The role focuses on implementation of PLCs, field devices, instrumentation, and sequences of operation, with periodic travel to campuses and sites. A background in BMS/EPMS or electrical controls is preferred.