Hybrid/Remote CFD Mechanical Engineer for Data Centers

SSOE; Columbus (OH); Hybrid; USD 110,000 - 135,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid or remote work option

Competitive salary $110k - $135k

Ownership opportunities at associate+

Comprehensive benefits (health, dental

401K with company matching

Job summary

SSOE is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with a strong CFD focus to design and optimize HVAC systems for mission‑critical data centers. You will work with in‑house engineering and architecture teams to ensure projects meet standards from scope to commissioning.

The role involves CFD simulations with Cadence and 3D modeling, designing CRAH/CRAC, chillers, containment, and ductwork, plus load and energy analyses to improve PUE. A PE license is preferred and ownership opportunities exist.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (ABET‑accredited) or related discipline.
• 8+ years of experience in mechanical/HVAC design, preferably in data centers or mission‑critical facilities.
• Hands-on experience with CFD modeling tools, including Cadence software.
• Proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit.
• Strong understanding of HVAC systems including chillers, air distribution, cooling strategies, and controls.
• Knowledge of ASHRAE guidelines (especially TC 9.9 for data centers) and applicable building codes.
• Ability to translate complex simulation data into actionable engineering decisions.

Responsibilities

• Develop detailed engineering designs, technical project plans, specifications, drawings, and 3D models aligned with client requirements and industry standards.
• Perform CFD simulations using tools such as Cadence (e.g., Fidelity/Pointwise or similar) to analyze airflow, temperature distribution, pressure gradients, and cooling effectiveness within data center environments.
• Design and optimize HVAC systems including CRAH/CRAC units, chillers, cooling towers, containment systems (hot/cold aisle), ductwork, and ventilation strategies.
• Conduct mechanical calculations including cooling load analysis, airflow distribution, pressure drop, pump head, and energy efficiency to support design decisions.
• Interpret CFD results to recommend design improvements for thermal management, redundancy, and energy optimization (PUE reduction).
• Apply standard engineering practices while adapting designs to meet complex data center performance requirements.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (Electrical, Structural, Architectural, and Controls) to integrate mechanical systems into coordinated design packages.
• Participate in and facilitate internal/external design reviews, ensuring deliverables meet QA/QC standards and project milestones.
• Perform site visits and field verifications to validate design assumptions, troubleshoot issues, and support construction activities.
• Manage RFIs, submittals, and technical inquiries from contractors and vendors, ensuring accurate documentation and version control.
• Support commissioning efforts by validating system performance against CFD predictions and design intent.

Skills

CFD modeling

HVAC design

AutoCAD

Revit

Data center knowledge

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Cadence

Pointwise

Job description

SSOE is seeking a Mechanical Engineer with a strong CFD focus to design and optimize HVAC systems for mission‑critical data centers. You will work with in‑house engineering and architecture teams to ensure projects meet standards from scope to commissioning.

The role involves CFD simulations with Cadence and 3D modeling, designing CRAH/CRAC, chillers, containment, and ductwork, plus load and energy analyses to improve PUE. A PE license is preferred and ownership opportunities exist.