Lead Mechanical Engineer Mission Critical Data Centres

About the role

GHD is seeking a senior Lead Mechanical Engineer to join its Global Data Centre Design Team in Abu Dhabi. You will direct the mechanical design of cutting‑edge AI and hyperscale data centres, shaping strategies for high‑availability, energy‑efficient infrastructure.

Key responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design for mission‑critical facilities, covering HVAC, chilled water, air distribution, heat‑rejection and integration with electrical/ICT systems.
• Develop specifications, technical reports and thermal load assessments in line with client requirements, local regulations and international standards.
• Plan capacity, redundancy (N+1, 2N) and sustainable cooling solutions such as free cooling and adiabatic systems.
• Coordinate with electrical, structural, fire protection and ICT teams to ensure clash‑free, optimised designs.
• Conduct technical reviews, control quality of deliverables, manage budgets and programme schedules.
• Maintain client relationships, present solutions and act as a trusted technical advisor from bid to handover.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the evolution of standard and bespoke design packages.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Building Services Engineering (Master’s or Chartered status preferred).
• Minimum 10 years of experience, with at least 3 years on mission‑critical or data‑centre projects.
• Proven expertise in cooling system design for high‑availability environments (CRAC/CRAH, chilled water, direct‑expansion, adiabatic).
• Strong understanding of mechanical‑electrical integration, BMS controls and commissioning processes.
• Excellent leadership, stakeholder engagement and communication skills.

Required skills

• HVAC design
• Chilled water and air‑distribution systems
• Heat‑rejection and free‑cooling technologies
• Revit, AutoCAD, IES and CFD modelling
• CRAC/CRAH, direct‑expansion and adiabatic cooling solutions
• Building Management Systems (BMS) and controls integration

What we offer

• Opportunity to work on globally significant AI and hyperscale data‑centre projects.
• Collaborative, multidisciplinary environment that values mentorship and knowledge‑sharing.
• Hybrid work model – three days per week in the Abu Dhabi office.
• Access to cutting‑edge technology and sustainable design practices.