Description:
US Signal is a leading data center services provider, offering secure, reliable network, cloud hosting, colocation, data protection, and disaster recovery services — all powered by its expansive, robust fiber network. US Signal also helps customers optimize their IT resources through the provision of managed services and professional services.
We are looking to have a Maintenance & Construction Data Center Engineer to join our team at our Aurora, IL data center location. This is an onsite role that will be Monday to Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and may require variable shift coverage if needed to assist the team.
The Maintenance & Construction Data Center Engineer leads the construction, expansion, and commissioning of mission-critical infrastructure while maintaining uninterrupted operation of live facilities. This hands-on role manages GCs, MEP subcontractors, and equipment vendors across complex buildouts, ensuring every project is delivered on time, on budget, and without compromising production uptime.
Functions/Responsibilities:
Construction & Project Execution
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Serve as owner's representative on active construction phases — coordinating GCs, MEP subs, low-voltage contractors, vendors, and commissioning agents across expansion projects.
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Develop and enforce construction sequencing plans that protect live infrastructure during phased expansion within operating data centers.
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Review and approve construction documents, shop drawings, submittals, RFIs, and change orders; manage punch lists and project closeout.
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Coordinate power, cooling, and life safety tie-ins to live systems, ensuring all work on energized infrastructure follows approved MOPs and switching sequences.
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Track construction budgets, flag variances, and support capital project forecasting across multi-site expansion programs.
Commissioning & Turnover
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Lead commissioning of newly installed MEP systems (UPS, generators, switchgear, PDUs, chillers, CRAHs, BMS/EPMS) and oversee integrated system testing (IST).
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Manage owner acceptance testing and coordinate turnover to operations with complete documentation packages and as-built drawings.
Critical Systems Operations
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Operate, monitor, and maintain all mechanical and electrical infrastructure in active data center environments; lead critical switching and LOTO activities.
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Respond to alarms and incidents; conduct root-cause analysis with awareness of concurrent construction activities affecting system behavior.
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Support BMS/EPMS monitoring and optimization for PUE, incorporating new infrastructure metrics as expansions come online.
Technical Leadership & Contractor Management
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Primary technical escalation for MEP and construction issues; review and approve contractor MOPs, switching sequences, and safety plans before execution.
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Lead pre-construction and progress meetings; hold GCs and subs accountable to scope, schedule, and site safety standards.
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Mentor operations technicians on construction-related hazards and integration of new infrastructure into daily operations.
Reliability, Documentation & Safety
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Maintain as-built drawings, SOPs, shift logs, and equipment records; ensure documentation is complete at project closeout and transferred to operations.
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Enforce OSHA, NFPA 70E, LOTO, PPE, and permit-to-work requirements for all energized and construction-phase work; conduct contractor safety orientations and jobsite inspections.
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Support audits, compliance documentation, and third-party inspections for both operational standards and construction permitting (NEC, NFPA 75/76, ASHRAE, AHJ).
Requirements:
What you bring to the team:
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4+ Years Experience working in data centers and/or experience with data center infrastructure to include electrical, HVAC, fire suppression, and security systems.
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Knowledge of planning and construction management processes and procedures.
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Knowledge of estimating, budgeting, and scheduling practices.
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Simplify: Problem Solving, Strategic Thinking
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Be Reliable: Dependability, Execution, Time Management
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Act Like an Owner: Accountability, Leadership, Business Acumen
Education:
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Bachelor's Degree or 4+ Years Professional Experience in facilities management, electrical or mechanical engineering
Required License(s)/Certification(s):
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Must be able to achieve CJIS certification within introductory period of employment.
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Valid driver’s license and insurance.
What We Offer:
In return for your hard work and commitment, you will enjoy a supportive and inclusive workplace, along with the following benefits:
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Generous paid time off policy, including vacation, and 10 paid holidays
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Competitive and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits plans with Flexible Spending benefits including medical/dental expenses and dependent care
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401(k) retirement plan with a generous contribution
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Group Term Life Insurance covered 100% by employer
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Wellness incentive to promote overall employee well-being
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Paid volunteer time
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Business casual dress code
Working Conditions and Physical Demands:
This position may be performed in either a standard office setting or a home office environment. It requires prolonged periods of sitting, frequent use of a computer and other office equipment, and effective time management in a self-directed work environment. Occasional lifting of items up to 25 pounds may be required.
All US Signal employees will comply with US Signal Information Security policies to ensure the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of US Signal and customer data. All employees are responsible to ensure actions comply with state and federal regulations and requirements.
We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in the United States. However, we are not able to sponsor visas at this time.
US Signal is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.