Associate Director – Data Center Cooling Systems

About The Role 

The Associate Director is responsible for providing strategic leadership to the North America Data Center Engineer-to-Order (ETO) team. This role manages the end-to-end development and delivery of advanced, customized chiller solutions tailored for data center clients. It encompasses oversight of key ETO processes, including performance selections, quotation preparation, design implementation, and delivery for water-cooled and air-cooled chillers. The position ensures consistent tracking and attainment of critical performance metrics. The Associate Director will deliver comprehensive technical guidance across all data center projects, collaborating with customers, sales teams, business leaders, and cross-functional partners to ensure robust, scalable, and efficient cooling solutions. Reporting directly to the Director of Engineering, this position is integral to maintaining high-performance standards and ensuring seamless project integration. 

Key Responsibilities 

• Lead and Manage the Data Center ETO team in the development and delivery of innovative designs that fulfill specific client requirements. 

• Manage, coordinate, and monitor all ETO processes for water-cooled and air-cooled chiller products. 

• Plan exploratory studies, conduct technical reviews, and develop a product innovation roadmap in partnership with the marketing team to reinforce segment leadership. 

• Supervise the complete project lifecycle, from conceptual design through commissioning, ensuring compliance with client specifications and industry standards. 

• Work collaboratively with vendors, consultants, and internal stakeholders to achieve project objectives and uphold regulatory standards. 

Required Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, 10+  years of HVAC engineering experience and 7+  years managing research and/or development teams within the HVAC sector. 

or 

• Master’s degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering, 8+ years of HVAC engineering experience, and 7 years managing research and/or development teams within the HVAC sector. 

or 

• PhD in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering,  6+ years of HVAC engineering experience, and 7+  years managing research and/or development teams within the HVAC sector. 

Preferred Qualification 

• Proven success in managing project budgets and delivering outcomes on schedule. 

• Demonstrated leadership and ability to execute business-critical projects effectively. 

• Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with a track record of building high-performance teams. 

• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to resolve complex issues efficiently. 

• Outstanding communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.