Data Center Mechanical Subject Matter Expert

Salute Mission Critical

Salute Mission Critical

Hubbard, TX, USA

USD 55-70 / hour

Posted on May 18, 2026

Salute is a leading provider of cutting-edge Data Center Infrastructure Services, dedicated to serving data center clients worldwide. We pride ourselves on delivering sustainable solutions, unparalleled reliability, and outstanding customer service. As we continue to grow, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced Mechanical Subject Matter Expert to join our team and drive our relationships with hyperscale clients to new heights.

Salute Benefits That Put You First

We know life doesn’t stop when work begins, that’s why we offer perks designed to support your well-being, your family, and your future:

  • Time to Recharge: Enjoy 8 company-paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and PTO so you can rest, celebrate, and take care of what matters most.
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package: Including Medical, Dental, and Vision that you can enroll in starting on Day 1. Coverage begins the first of the month following 30-days of employment.
  • Peace of Mind: The Employee Assistance Program is available to all employees, even if you do not participate in the benefits package.
  • Your financial future matters: Enjoy our employer-supported 401(K) with immediate 100% vesting, plus a 3% employer match and a 50% match on the next 2%.
  • Wellness Support: Access to HSA, mental health resources, and gym discounts—because your health matters.
  • Extra Protection & Perks: Through discounted group programs, such as legal services, home & auto insurance, pet insurance, and ID theft protection for life’s unexpected moments.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Data Center Mechanical Subject Matter Expert (SME) serves as the primary technical authority for mechanical systems within a mission-critical data center environment. This hands-on role is responsible for optimizing system reliability, supporting maintenance and troubleshooting activities, and leading technical training efforts. The Mechanical SME partners closely with operations teams, vendors, and leadership to ensure the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of HVAC and fluid systems while driving continuous improvement and supporting high uptime standards.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Technical Leadership & Oversight

  • Serve as the onsite technical expert for mechanical infrastructure systems.
  • Optimize performance, reliability, and efficiency of HVAC and fluid systems.
  • Oversee mechanical system configurations, upgrades, and modifications.
  • Ensure all work adheres to best practices, change control processes, and QA/QC standards.
  • Provide technical guidance for troubleshooting complex mechanical issues.

Operations & Maintenance

  • Plan, develop, and approve maintenance procedures and work plans.
  • Oversee execution and quality control of maintenance, repair, and retrofit activities.
  • Conduct or supervise hands-on troubleshooting and repair of mechanical equipment.
  • Maintain and update SOPs, MOPs, and EOPs to align with client standards.
  • Support mechanical safety programs and risk mitigation efforts.

Project & Continuous Improvement

  • Support and oversee mechanical aspects of construction and retrofit projects.
  • Analyze mechanical systems and identify opportunities for operational improvement.
  • Perform system assessments and ensure proper documentation of processes and changes.
  • Lead Root Cause Analysis (RCA) efforts for mechanical system failures.

Training & Team Development

  • Train Critical Facility Engineers (CFEs) on mechanical systems and procedures.
  • Deliver classroom and hands-on training on HVAC, fire/life safety, and water systems.
  • Foster a collaborative, high-performance team environment.
  • Support cross-functional collaboration across facility and engineering teams.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

  • Manage vendor relationships supporting mechanical systems and services.
  • Coordinate with internal and external teams to ensure alignment on operational goals.
  • Ensure service providers meet safety, quality, and performance expectations.

EXPECTATIONS

  • Maintain high reliability and uptime of critical mechanical systems.
  • Act as the go-to expert for all mechanical-related issues and decisions.
  • Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and industry standards.
  • Drive continuous improvement in system performance and operational processes.
  • Deliver high-quality training and mentorship to technical teams.
  • Maintain accurate documentation and adherence to procedures.
  • Demonstrate strong ownership, integrity, and commitment to excellence.

KEY SKILLS

  • Advanced HVAC and mechanical systems expertise
  • Troubleshooting and root cause analysis (RCA)
  • Preventive and corrective maintenance planning
  • Technical training and mentorship
  • Knowledge of chilled water, DX cooling, and fluid systems
  • Understanding of building automation and control systems
  • Vendor and project management
  • Risk assessment and safety compliance
  • Interpretation of schematics and technical drawings
  • Strong communication and collaboration skills
  • Microsoft Office proficiency (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
  • Attention to detail and problem-solving ability

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

  • 7+ years of experience in mechanical systems within a mission-critical environment (OR bachelor’s degree in engineering/engineering technology with 4+ years of experience)
  • Strong hands-on experience in mechanical operations, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repairs
  • Ability to interpret mechanical schematics, drawings, and specifications
  • Working knowledge of electrical, controls, and fire/life safety systems
  • Experience with refrigeration cycles, trend analysis, and mechanical system diagnostics
  • Familiarity with brazing, grinding, and refrigerant handling
  • Experience working in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments
  • Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office tools

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment, up to 50lbs.
  • Ability to climb ladders and multiple flights of stairs to access elevated equipment
  • Ability to stand for long periods of time in various work environments
  • Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach for equipment related tasks
  • Basic physical fitness to respond quickly to emergency situations and navigate areas quickly
  • Ability to move quickly and efficiently withing various work environments to troubleshoot issues or respond to emergencies.
  • Good hand-eye coordination and dexterity for working with small components and connectors
  • Clear vision, with or without correction, to perform tasks requiring attention to detail and precision while wearing safety glasses
  • Ability to differentiate between color-coded warning signs, labels, and cables
  • Ability to work in environments with a wide variety of temperatures inside a facility
  • Ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, rain, or snow
  • Capability to work in environments with elevated noise levels while wearing hearing protection
  • Possession of a valid driver’s license for work-related travel, as required

If you are a motivated and results-driven individual with a passion for data center services and a knack for building strong client relationships, we want to hear from you. Join us in revolutionizing the data center industry and apply today!

Compensation & Benefits Disclosure

The base wage range for this role is $55-$70 per hour. This range reflects a good-faith estimate of what we reasonably expect to pay upon hire, based on factors such as skills, experience, education, and market/location. Our comprehensive benefits include health, dental, and vision insurance, Health Savings Account (HSA), gym discount, mental health, Discounted Group Life & AD&D, Discounted Group Short & Long-term Disability, 401(k) retirement matching, PTO/paid holidays, and parental leave. Final compensation will be determined by job-related factors consistent with applicable law.

Salute is an equal opportunity employer committed to celebrating diversity, creating an inclusive environment for all employees, and providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants; if you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, perform essential job functions, or receive other benefits and privileges of employment, please contact our Human Resources department at hr@salute.com for more information. (For recruiting specific questions, please contact recruiting@salute.com)