Job Description: MEP Project Manager – Data Center (Mechanical / HVAC / Piping Focus)
Position Summary
The MEP Project Manager will oversee the planning, coordination, and execution of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing systems within large-scale data center projects. This role has a strong emphasis on mechanical piping, HVAC systems, and cost management, ensuring projects are delivered on schedule, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in mission-critical environments and a deep understanding of mechanical infrastructure essential to high-performance data center operations.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management & Coordination
- Lead end-to-end MEP project delivery for data center builds, expansions, and retrofits.
- Coordinate mechanical design, installation, and commissioning activities with internal teams, contractors, and vendors.
- Oversee HVAC and mechanical piping systems including chilled water, condenser water, DX systems, CRAC/CRAH units, and other mission-critical components.
- Ensure alignment between mechanical, electrical, and plumbing disciplines to prevent design conflicts and optimize system performance.
Technical Oversight
- Review and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, and submittals for mechanical and HVAC systems.
- Provide technical guidance on system design, constructability, equipment selection, and installation methods.
- Monitor field installation quality, conduct site inspections, and resolve technical issues promptly.
- Support commissioning activities including test scripts, functional testing, and turnover documentation.
Cost & Budget Management
- Develop, manage, and track project budgets related to mechanical systems.
- Review contractor estimates, change orders, and value-engineering proposals.
- Ensure cost-effective solutions without compromising system reliability or performance.
- Maintain accurate financial reporting, forecasting, and risk assessments.
Schedule & Risk Management
- Develop and maintain MEP project schedules with a focus on critical mechanical milestones.
- Identify potential risks in mechanical and HVAC deliveries and create mitigation strategies.
- Ensure timely procurement of mechanical equipment, materials, and long-lead items.
Stakeholder Communication
- Act as the primary liaison between owners, design teams, contractors, and vendors for mechanical scope.
- Present project updates, risks, and progress to leadership and project stakeholders.
- Maintain clear documentation including meeting minutes, status reports, and technical logs.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Construction Management, or related field.
- 5–10+ years of MEP project management experience, preferably in data center or mission-critical environments.
- Strong background in mechanical piping, HVAC systems, and cost control.
- Proven track record managing contractors, subcontractors, and multidisciplinary teams.
- Knowledge of industry standards (ASHRAE, SMACNA, local building codes).
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and leadership skills.
- Proficiency in project management tools (MS Project, Primavera, Procore, or similar).