The Mission Critical Engineer I (MCE 1) is responsible for supporting the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of mission-critical data center infrastructure. This position performs routine inspections, preventative maintenance, troubleshooting, operational procedures, and incident response across electrical, mechanical, controls, and life-safety systems.
The MCE 1 works under the direction of Mission Critical leadership and more experienced engineers while developing the technical knowledge and operational experience required to independently operate critical infrastructure.
Key Responsibilities
- Perform routine facility rounds and inspections of critical electrical and mechanical equipment.
- Monitor facility conditions, alarms, and equipment performance through BMS, and other monitoring systems.
- Identify abnormal equipment conditions and promptly escalate issues through the appropriate chain of command.
- Assist with troubleshooting and resolution of electrical, mechanical, controls, and facility-related issues.
- Perform and document preventative maintenance activities in accordance with established maintenance procedures and schedules.
- Support the operation and maintenance of critical equipment, including:
- UPS systems
- Generators
- Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS)
- Switchgear and electrical distribution equipment
- Transformers
- Chillers and cooling systems
- Pumps and heat rejection equipment
- CDUs and liquid-cooling infrastructure
- BMS and EPMS systems
- Fire and life-safety systems
- Execute approved Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Methods of Procedure (MOPs), and Emergency Operating Procedures (EOPs).
- Assist with equipment switching, shutdowns, startups, and maintenance activities under appropriate supervision.
- Respond to facility alarms and incidents and assist with restoring equipment and systems to normal operating conditions.
- Maintain maintenance records, equipment readings, and operational documentation.
- Support vendor and contractor activities while ensuring compliance with site safety and operational requirements.
- Participate in commissioning, testing, equipment turnover, and integrated systems testing as required.
- Maintain clean and organized electrical, mechanical, and operational spaces.
- Follow all site safety requirements, including electrical safety, LOTO, PPE, and energized-work procedures.
- Participate in ongoing technical training and qualification programs.
- Support 24/7 mission-critical operations, including shift work, nights, weekends, holidays, and on-call coverage when required.
Minimum Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Basic understanding of electrical and/or mechanical systems.
- Ability to read and understand equipment manuals, procedures, and basic electrical/mechanical drawings.
- Strong mechanical aptitude and willingness to develop knowledge of mission-critical infrastructure.
- Ability to safely use hand tools, meters, and other maintenance equipment appropriate to the individual's training and qualifications.
- Strong communication, documentation, and teamwork skills.
- Ability to remain calm and follow established procedures during critical events.
- Ability to work safely around energized electrical equipment and operating mechanical systems.
- Ability to lift, climb ladders, work in equipment spaces, and perform other physical activities associated with data center operations.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience in data centers, critical facilities, electrical, HVAC, mechanical, industrial, military, or similar technical environments.
- Familiarity with UPS systems, generators, switchgear, ATS equipment, chillers, pumps, or building automation systems.
- Understanding of electrical one-line diagrams and mechanical system drawings.
- Familiarity with NFPA 70E and electrical safety practices.
- OSHA, electrical, HVAC, mechanical, or other relevant technical certifications.
Core Competencies
Safety – Consistently follows established safety procedures and recognizes potential hazards before beginning work.
Operational Discipline – Follows approved procedures and does not deviate from established operating practices without authorization.
Technical Development – Actively develops knowledge of site electrical, mechanical, controls, and critical infrastructure systems.
Communication – Clearly communicates equipment conditions, alarms, incidents, maintenance activities, and operational concerns.
Ownership – Takes responsibility for assigned tasks and follows issues through completion or proper turnover.
Teamwork – Works effectively with Mission Critical, Controls, Mechanical, Security, Construction, Commissioning, and other supporting teams.
Attention to Detail – Accurately records equipment readings, completes documentation, and identifies abnormal facility conditions.