Principal Mechanical Engineer Data Center Innovation Leader

Vantage; Denver (CO); Hybrid; USD 170,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

Life and AD&D insurance

Short and long-term disability

Paid time off

Employee assistance program

401k with company match

Job summary

Vantage is seeking a Principal Engineer, Mechanical Engineering to lead mechanical design strategy for North American data center projects. This role focuses on setting direction, solving complex challenges, and mentoring engineers within the Design Engineering Department.

The position supports a hybrid work model (3 days onsite, 2 days remote) across Denver, CO and other US locations. Strong collaboration with electrical, architectural, and operations teams is essential.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; advanced degree preferred.
• 5-8 years of experience in mechanical design, construction, and operations, with data center or mission-critical experience required.
• Proven track record of leading complex technical initiatives and influencing cross-functional teams.
• Expertise in design and documentation tools (AutoCAD, Revit, BIM, CFD modeling) and reporting platforms (Excel, Power BI).
• Strong organizational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Deep knowledge of building codes, standards, and industry best practices (ASHRAE).
• Travel is expected to be up to 15–25% but may increase as the business evolves.

Responsibilities

• Define and drive mechanical engineering strategy across North American data center projects.
• Lead complex technical problem-solving and provide expert guidance on design, construction, and operations.
• Influence engineering standards, design principles, and long-term planning across the organization.
• Provide technical leadership on major projects and initiatives, ensuring alignment with business goals.
• Review and approve critical design decisions, submittals, and change management actions.
• Support commissioning, turnover, and operational readiness activities.
• Partner with internal teams including electrical, architectural, operations, and innovation engineering to ensure integrated solutions.
• Represent mechanical engineering in Centers of Excellence (CoE), strategic forums, and executive-level discussions.
• Support customer-facing engagements, including RFP responses, technical presentations, and post-lease coordination.
• Mentor and support engineers across all levels, fostering technical growth and knowledge sharing.
• Contribute to onboarding, training, and development of mechanical engineering talent.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement and technical excellence.
• Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies, applying insights to improve system performance and efficiency.
• Lead efforts to refine Vantage’s mechanical design standards and best practices.
• Conduct forensic analysis and root cause investigations for operational issues and failures.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Skills

Mechanical design

Leadership

Cross-functional collaboration

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

AutoCAD

Revit

BIM

CFD modeling

Excel

Power BI

Job description

Vantage is seeking a Principal Engineer, Mechanical Engineering to lead mechanical design strategy for North American data center projects. This role focuses on setting direction, solving complex challenges, and mentoring engineers within the Design Engineering Department.

The position supports a hybrid work model (3 days onsite, 2 days remote) across Denver, CO and other US locations. Strong collaboration with electrical, architectural, and operations teams is essential.