Principal Thermal Systems Architect - Data Center Innovation

Socket.dev; Westerville (OH); On-site; USD 140,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Vertiv is recruiting a Principal Mechanical Engineer to shape next‑generation thermal management technologies for data center and critical infrastructure applications. You will lead technical strategy, direct cross‑functional teams, and develop robust guidelines to hand over to NPDI for productization.

The role emphasizes mentoring engineers, collaborating with external partners, and advancing thermal architectures toward scalable, high-density cooling solutions.

Qualifications

• BSME or related degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• 6+ years of experience in mechanical engineering with thermal management.
• Ability to travel 10%.
• Proven track record as a technical lead managing multi-disciplinary teams from concept to validation.
• Strong written and verbal communication to executives and teams.
• Deep expertise in thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.

Responsibilities

• Define and lead the technical strategy for mission critical thermal advanced development projects from concept through prototype validation.
• Serve as the senior technical lead on cross-functional project teams, directing engineering activities, resolving complex technical challenges, and ensuring milestones are met.
• Develop and document design guidelines and specifications for handover to NPDI when projects transition to product development.
• Communicate complex technical information clearly to diverse audiences including senior leadership and customers.
• Mentor and lead engineers and technicians, fostering a high-performance team environment.
• Establish partnerships with external research partners to identify and advance emerging thermal technologies.
• Conduct and oversee thermal analysis, modeling, and testing to validate cooling concepts.
• Influence technology roadmaps and provide guidance on industry trends, regulatory developments, and refrigerants.
• Drive continuous improvement in advanced development methods, tools, and processes.
• Perform engineering calculations including stress, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Fluid mechanics

Technical leadership

Project management

Communication skills

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

Advanced degree preferred

Job description

Vertiv is recruiting a Principal Mechanical Engineer to shape next‑generation thermal management technologies for data center and critical infrastructure applications. You will lead technical strategy, direct cross‑functional teams, and develop robust guidelines to hand over to NPDI for productization.

The role emphasizes mentoring engineers, collaborating with external partners, and advancing thermal architectures toward scalable, high-density cooling solutions.