Structural Engineer - Data Centers
About this role
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're seeking an experienced Structural Engineer specializing in mission-critical facilities to join our infrastructure team supporting the rapid build-out of large-scale compute clusters and data centers. This role will play a key part in designing and delivering resilient, high-performance structural systems for hyperscale AI training facilities.
You'll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including mechanical, electrical, civil, and construction partners—to ensure structural designs support extreme compute densities, seismic resilience, vibration control, rapid deployment timelines, and operational uptime requirements. This is a full-time, on-site (or hybrid) position with occasional travel to project sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead structural design and analysis for large-scale data center and compute facilities, from conceptual design through construction administration
- Develop and review structural models, calculations, drawings, and specifications using tools like Tekla Structures, ETABS, RISA, STAAD, or equivalent
- Oversee multidisciplinary coordination, ensuring seamless integration of structural systems with MEP, cooling infrastructure, raised floors, rooftop equipment, and modular/precast components
- Perform seismic analysis, vibration isolation design, load path evaluations, and assessments for high-density equipment loads and redundant systems
- Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables; review shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs; conduct site visits and inspections
- Mentor junior engineers and designers; assign tasks and ensure high-quality, on-time delivery
- Identify risks, propose innovative solutions, and drive cost optimization while maintaining safety and compliance with relevant codes (ASCE 7, ACI, AISC, IBC, local seismic requirements)
- Stay current on data center innovations, including modular construction, steel/precast framing, and scalable design approaches
- Provide regular updates to leadership via KPIs, reports, and presentations
- Contribute to process improvements and shared leadership across the team
- Perform and/or review drawings, calculations and analyses to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes and regulations
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil or Structural Engineering from an accredited university
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required; Structural Engineer (SE) preferred
- 10+ years of professional experience in structural engineering for building projects
- Demonstrated expertise in structural design and analysis for mission-critical or hyperscale data center facilities
- Proficiency with structural analysis software (e.g., ETABS, RISA, STAAD) and CAD/BIM tools (e.g., Revit, Tekla Structures, AutoCAD)
- Strong knowledge of building codes, seismic design, vibration control, and interfaces with MEP systems
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities
- Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary coordination efforts on mission-critical facilities, where structural design directly supports stringent uptime, seismic resilience, vibration control, and large load capacity requirements
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and communication with internal and external construction team members
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Master's degree in Structural Engineering
- 10+ years of experience specifically with large-scale data centers (hyperscale, colocation, or AI compute facilities)
- Experience managing fast-track projects, design-build delivery, and multidisciplinary teams
- Familiarity with modular and prefabricated construction techniques
- Track record of mentoring teams and acting as a subject matter expert
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to travel occasionally (30-50%) for site visits and project support
- Ability to work extended hours when needed to meet aggressive timelines
- Must pass pre-employment background check and drug screening
xAI is an equal opportunity employer. For details on data processing, view our Recruitment Privacy Notice.
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