Director, Data Center Facilities Operations (AI)

TL;DR

Director, Data Center Facilities Operations (AI): Leading the strategic leadership, reliability, and operational excellence of data center facilities infrastructure with an accent on power systems, HVAC, and critical utility reliability. Focus on ensuring zero unplanned downtime and maximizing availability for mission-critical AI operations.

Location: Memphis, TN; Southaven, MS

Company

xAI's mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge.

What you will do

• Lead a multi-layered organization of managers and technicians to ensure 24/7/365 reliability of data center facilities.
• Develop site-wide strategies, multi-year roadmaps, and manage CapEx/OpEx budgeting and resource forecasting.
• Collaborate with engineering and executive leadership to execute large-scale projects for capacity expansion.
• Oversee contractors and vendors for mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and fire/life safety systems.
• Manage preventative and predictive maintenance programs to maximize uptime and optimize PUE.
• Define and track KPIs related to safety, availability, and energy efficiency for executive reporting.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, facilities management, architecture, or a related technical field.
• 10+ years of experience in facilities operations or critical facilities management.
• 5+ years in a leadership role managing multi-site or multi-facility operations.
• Proven experience leading teams in high-availability environments such as data centers or industrial facilities.
• Willingness to work extended hours, weekends, and non-standard schedules to support critical operations.

Nice to have

• Master’s degree in engineering or business, or professional certifications like CEM, PMP, or CFM.
• Deep expertise in UPS, generators, precision cooling, and BMS/DCIM systems.
• Experience managing large-scale portfolios under aggressive timelines and changing scopes.

Culture & Benefits

• Flat organizational structure where all employees are expected to be hands-on.
• High-tempo, high-stakes environment focused on engineering excellence and curiosity.
• Opportunity to contribute directly to the mission of understanding the universe.
• Leadership opportunities for those who show initiative and deliver excellence.