Lead Mechanical Engineer - Mission Critical Data Centres

About the role

GHD is looking for an experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to join its Global Data Centre Design Team (Mission Critical) in the UAE offices. This is a senior leadership position for a technically accomplished engineer with a strong track record in designing and delivering complex data centre and mission critical projects. You will lead the mechanical engineering design for advanced AI and hyperscale data centres, including standardised global reference designs and bespoke high-performance facilities, and mentor the next generation of engineers.

Key responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design for mission critical facilities, covering HVAC, chilled water systems, air distribution, heat rejection systems and integration with electrical and ICT systems.
• Develop designs, specifications and technical reports in line with client requirements, local regulations and international standards.
• Deliver thermal load assessments, capacity planning and redundancy and resilience strategies (e.g. N+1, 2N) for critical cooling systems.
• Integrate energy efficiency, free cooling and sustainable technologies to minimise operational costs and environmental impact.
• Coordinate with electrical, structural, public health, fire protection and ICT teams for fully integrated, clash-free designs.
• Lead technical reviews, ensure quality control of deliverables and manage budgets, schedules and programme.
• Maintain client relationships and act as a trusted technical advisor from bid through to handover.
• Mentor junior engineers and help develop and adapt standard designs and bespoke solutions.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Building Services Engineering; Master's degree or Chartered Engineer status preferred.
• Minimum 10 years of relevant experience, with at least 3 years on mission critical and/or data centre projects.
• Proven expertise in cooling system design for high-availability environments (CRAC/CRAH, chilled water, direct expansion, adiabatic cooling).
• Strong understanding of mechanical-electrical integration, controls/BMS strategies and commissioning.
• Hyperscale and AI data centre cooling experience highly desirable.
• Leadership, stakeholder engagement, problem-solving and communication skills.

Required skills

• Revit, AutoCAD, IES, CFD modelling or equivalent design tools.
• Ability to produce technical designs, calculations and specifications to a high standard.

What we offer

• Work on globally significant AI and hyperscale data centre projects.
• A fast-growing mission critical team with knowledge sharing and mentorship.
• Office attendance of three days per week.