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xAI is seeking a Manager of Critical Facilities Operations to lead the reliability, performance, and continuous improvement of critical data center infrastructure at the Memphis site. You will own all aspects of power, cooling, and environmental systems, leading and developing a team of Facilities Operations Supervisors and Technicians.
Key responsibilities include:
- Leading, mentoring, and developing the facilities operations team, fostering a culture of excellence and accountability
- Owning maintenance, monitoring, troubleshooting, and performance optimization of data center infrastructure (HVAC, power distribution, UPS, generators, environmental systems)
- Developing and implementing preventive and predictive maintenance programs, equipment calibration strategies, and performance KPIs
- Creating and enforcing standard operating procedures, emergency response plans, and change management processes
- Ensuring compliance with safety regulations and industry standards; championing a strong safety culture
- Partnering with engineering, procurement, construction, and operations teams on equipment lifecycle management
- Managing inventory, asset management, and spare parts strategy using internal systems
- Overseeing critical equipment maintenance, repairs, and capital projects with rigorous documentation and root-cause analysis
- Leading cross-functional initiatives to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and improve energy utilization
- Managing vendor relationships, service contracts, and performance
- Providing 24/7 on-call leadership for critical facilities incidents
- Developing and managing operational budgets, forecasts, and resource planning
The role emphasizes hands-on technical excellence, strategic operational planning, process optimization, and cross-functional collaboration in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.
REQUIREMENTS:
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field (relevant experience may substitute)
- 7+ years managing critical facilities systems (power, cooling, environmental controls) in data center or mission-critical environments
- 5+ years of people leadership experience in critical facilities or technical operations, including direct management of supervisors or technical teams
- In-depth knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems in data centers
- Proven track record leading facilities infrastructure projects from planning through execution
- Proficiency with building management systems (BMS), environmental monitoring tools, and computerized maintenance management systems (CMMS)
- Strong prioritization, time management, and decision-making skills under pressure
- Ability to thrive in fast-paced, high-stakes environments with rigorous attention to detail
- Must pass pre-employment and annual post-employment background checks
- Physical requirements: ability to lift up to 35 lbs unassisted; comfortable working at heights up to 50 feet with safety gear; ability to work in noise-exposed environments; physical dexterity for confined spaces
- Availability to work evenings and weekends based on operational needs
- Valid driver's license
PREFERRED:
- Experience programming or configuring PLC-based control systems and advanced Building Management Systems
- Project Management Professional (PMP) certification or equivalent
- EPA Universal Refrigerant Certification (EPA 608 Technician)
- Experience managing operational budgets and capital expenditure projects in data center environments
- Prior experience scaling facilities operations in high-growth technology or mission-critical settings
