Ops/Build Engineer (Transmission & Distribution) - Memphis

Xai; Memphis (TN); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

SpaceXAI is seeking an Ops/Build Engineer to design, build, operate, and maintain electrical infrastructure for AI training campuses. Based in Memphis, TN, you will join a small on-site team to scale high-capacity power systems on a schedule driven by compute demand.

The role requires hands-on leadership, 5+ years HV experience, and a hands-on, safety-focused mindset. Travel up to 25% and on-site work in Memphis are expected.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree (or 8+ years of substation field experience) in electrical/related engineering.
• 5+ years in substation commissioning, testing, build, or utility operations on HV systems.

Responsibilities

• Take HV assets from ground to load and ensure reliability in operation.
• Own substation energization plan: pre-energization checks, phasing verification, synchronization, and staged load ramp.
• Direct NETA acceptance testing on breakers, transformers, GIS, instrument transformers, arresters, and cables.
• Perform relay end-to-end testing and SCADA/telemetry checks with site and utility.
• Coordinate outages and switching; write and own clearance and switching procedures.
• Execute electrical safety program: arc-flash labeling, energized work permitting, and switching authorization.
• After energization, manage transformer oil program, breaker maintenance, batteries, SF6 monitoring, fault analysis.
• Collaborate with construction, vendors, and technicians to drive rapid improvements at the Memphis campus.
• Ensure compliance with NFPA 70/70B/70E, NESC, and IEEE standards, prioritizing safety and engineering excellence.

Skills

Substation commissioning

High-voltage systems

Electrical engineering

Team leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering or related field

8+ years substation field experience (in lieu of degree)

Tools

Doble F6150

Omicron CMC

Job description

SpaceXAI's mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company's mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

ABOUT THE ROLE:

Join the High Power Engineering team supporting SpaceXAI to design, build, operate, and maintain electrical infrastructure for AI training campuses. As a Ops/Build Engineer on the Transmission & Distribution team, you will work with a small on-site team to scale high-capacity power systems on a schedule set by compute demand. The position is based in Memphis, TN, with potential travel to other sites.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Take high- and medium-voltage assets from steel in the ground to carrying load, then own their reliability in operation.
• Own the substation and transmission energization plan: pre-energization checks, phasing verification, synchronizing checks, and staged load ramp.
• Direct NETA acceptance testing on breakers, transformers, GIS, instrument transformers, arresters, and cable systems.
• Execute relay end-to-end testing, transfer trip verification, and point-to-point SCADA and telemetry checkout with the site and the utility.
• Coordinate outages and switching with the utility; write and own clearance and switching procedures.
• Execute the electrical safety program in the field: arc-flash labeling currency, energized work permitting, and switching authorization.
• After energization, own transformer oil program, breaker maintenance intervals, battery and charger program, SF6 monitoring, and fault investigation using relay event records.
• Collaborate with construction, vendors, and technicians; drive rapid, continuous improvements at the Memphis campus.
• Ensure compliance with NFPA 70, 70B, 70E, NESC, and IEEE standards, prioritizing safety and engineering excellence.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelor's degree in electrical engineering, computer engineering, physics, or another engineering discipline, or 8+ years of substation field experience in lieu of a degree.
• 5+ years in substation commissioning, testing, build, or utility operations on high-power, high-voltage systems.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Experience energizing high-voltage equipment and directing switching on live systems.
• Experience with relay test sets such as Doble F6150 or Omicron CMC.
• NETA Level III or IV certification.
• Experience with SEL relay families.
• NERC PRC compliance testing and evidence experience.
• Ability to quickly troubleshoot issues and support technicians hands-on.
• Proven ability to lead teams, work independently, and thrive in dynamic, high-stress environments with tight deadlines.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Perform hands-on work in all environments (heat, cold, rain), in tight quarters or at heights.
• Work extended hours and weekends as needed to support construction, energization, and operations.
• Remain focused in hazardous environments while wearing appropriate PPE.
• Lift up to 25 lbs. unassisted.
• Provide 24/7 on-call support for emergencies.
• Willing to work on-site in Memphis, TN. This is not a remote or hybrid role.
• Travel up to 25% for factory witness testing, vendor and OEM engagement, and supporting other sites.
• Valid driver's license.

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