ABOUT xAI
xAI’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:
We are seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Commissioning Technician to support the buildout and startup of xAI’s high-performance data centers. In this critical hands-on role, you will perform commissioning, testing, and troubleshooting of mechanical systems that provide cooling, air handling, and fluid distribution for our next-generation AI supercomputing infrastructure.
You will work closely with construction, engineering, and operations teams to ensure safe, reliable, and high-quality mechanical systems from initial installation through full system turnover. This is a full-time, onsite role with significant travel to xAI data center sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Execute mechanical commissioning activities for HVAC systems, chillers, cooling towers, CRAC/CRAH units, pumps, heat exchangers, piping systems, and associated controls in data center environments.
- Perform functional testing, airflow and water flow verification, system balancing, and integrated system performance validation.
- Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical, controls, and hydronic issues during pre-commissioning, commissioning, and startup phases.
- Develop and execute detailed commissioning test procedures, checklists, and documentation in accordance with project specifications and industry standards.
- Collaborate with EPC contractors, OEM vendors, and xAI engineers to coordinate system energization, startup sequences, and integrated system testing.
- Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols, LOTO procedures, and quality standards during all commissioning activities.
- Maintain accurate as-built documentation, test records, and commissioning reports.
- Support training of operations and maintenance teams on commissioned mechanical systems.
- Participate in constructability reviews and provide field feedback to improve design and installation quality.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- 3+ years of hands-on mechanical commissioning or field technician experience in data centers, power plants, or large industrial facilities.
- Strong working knowledge of data center cooling systems including chillers, cooling towers, pumps, CRAC/CRAH units, and precision air handling.
- Experience with commissioning test equipment (manometers, anemometers, flow meters, temperature/pressure calibrators, etc.).
- Familiarity with relevant codes and standards (ASHRAE, SMACNA, NFPA, ASME, IMC).
- Demonstrated ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings, P&IDs, and control schematics.
- Strong safety mindset with current OSHA 10/30 or equivalent training.
- Willingness to work extended hours, nights, and weekends during critical commissioning windows.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Prior commissioning experience on hyperscale data center projects or mission-critical facilities.
- NEBB, AABC, or equivalent certification in testing, adjusting, and balancing (TAB).
- Experience with BMS/BAS controls troubleshooting and integration (BACnet, Modbus, etc.).
- Knowledge of chilled water systems, refrigerant systems, and high-density liquid cooling technologies.
- Proficiency with commissioning management software (e.g., CxPro, Procore, or similar).
- Technical degree or trade school certification in Mechanical Engineering Technology, HVAC, or related field.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to travel extensively to xAI construction sites and remain onsite during peak commissioning phases.
- Capability to work in industrial environments, climb ladders, lift moderate loads, and wear PPE for extended periods.
xAI is an equal opportunity employer. For details on data processing, view our Recruitment Privacy Notice.