Senior Data Center Electrical Engineer - Operational SME

Position Title: Data Center Electrical Engineer – Operational Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Department: Operations

Reports To: Director of HPC Operations

Job Level: Individual Contributor

FLSA Status: Full Time / Exempt

Primary Location: Ellendale, ND (Polaris Forge)

At Applied Digital, we are the epicenter of AI innovation, crafting cutting-edge data center solutions tailored for the demands of high-performance computing. Designed from the ground up to support AI and machine learning workloads, our infrastructure is the backbone of tomorrow’s technological advancements, including AI-driven video and generative platforms.

We are:

• Forward-Thinkers: With a keen eye on current market trends and future innovations, we adapt swiftly and lead technological evolution.
• Resilient: We navigate complex challenges and emerge stronger, delivering robust and reliable solutions for industry pioneers.
• Innovative Designers: Leveraging the latest technologies, we create visionary solutions that redefine industry standards.

We remain committed and steadfast in solving intricate problems, advancing business initiatives, maximizing operational efficiency, and reducing our carbon footprint. We are a team of resilient, forward-thinking innovators driving the AI revolution.

Role Overview:

Applied Digital is seeking a highly skilled Data Center Electrical Engineer – Operational Subject Matter Expert (SME) to oversee and optimize the performance, reliability, and efficiency of our data center electrical infrastructure. This role requires deep technical expertise in electrical systems, power distribution, and critical facility operations to ensure the continuous and optimal operation of high-performance data centers. The SME will collaborate with internal teams and external partners to develop operational strategies, troubleshoot complex electrical issues, and drive improvements in system resiliency and efficiency.

Key Responsibilities:

• Serve as the subject matter expert for all electrical systems within the data center, including power distribution units (PDUs), uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), switchgear, and generators.
• Provide technical leadership in troubleshooting and resolving electrical failures, optimizing system performance, and mitigating risks.
• Develop and implement operational procedures, maintenance strategies, and reliability programs for electrical infrastructure.
• Collaborate with design, construction, and operations teams to enhance electrical system resiliency and scalability.
• Analyze electrical system data to identify trends, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement.
• Work closely with vendors and contractors to evaluate new technologies and ensure compliance with industry standards.
• Conduct root cause analysis for power-related incidents and develop corrective action plans.
• Provide training and mentorship to operations personnel on electrical system best practices.
• Ensure compliance with all applicable codes, regulations, and safety standards.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in data center electrical engineering, facility operations, or mission-critical environments.
• Extensive knowledge of power distribution, redundancy design, grounding systems, and emergency backup solutions.
• Hands-on experience with high-voltage and low-voltage systems, electrical schematics, and load analysis.
• Strong understanding of industry standards such as NFPA, NEC, IEEE, and Uptime Institute Tier classifications.
• Proven ability to diagnose and resolve complex electrical system failures in real-time operational settings.
• Experience with power monitoring and control systems (e.g., SCADA, EPMS, BMS).
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certifications such as PE (Professional Engineer), PMP, or relevant data center qualifications.
• Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Power Systems, or a related discipline.
• Experience supporting design reviews, commissioning, or post-commissioning optimization of data center electrical infrastructure.
• Familiarity with reliability-centered maintenance (RCM) and predictive maintenance methodologies.
• Working knowledge of energy efficiency practices and electrical load optimization strategies.
• Experience with electrical modeling and analysis software such as SKM Power Tools or ETAP.
• Background in vendor or contractor management for large-scale power infrastructure projects.

Physical Requirements:

Able to remain in a seated position for an extended period and to lift and carry up to 15 lbs. (office manuals, case notebooks, case files, case materials, standard boxes, report binders, etc.) as needed.

Please note that Applied Digital is currently unable to sponsor new applicants for employment authorization or provide immigration-related support for this position. This includes, but is not limited to, visa categories such as H-1B, F-1 OPT, F-1 STEM OPT, F-1 CPT, J-1, TN, E-2, E-3, L-1, O-1, and any Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) or other work authorizations that require employer sponsorship.

Location Policies:

Remote: The Company agrees that Employee may work from home provided employee is in good standing, has a continuous secured internet connection, necessary equipment, and is accessible by MS Teams, phone, fax, and email during business hours. (See Telework policy.)

Office Environment: Business office hours, with work hours necessary to satisfactorily perform job functions. Some overtime may be required to accomplish timely work demands and meet the company’s professional commitments. Overtime hours worked are paid to nonexempt employees at one and a half times their hourly pay rate.

Site Location: We are a 24-hour facility. Work hours (shifts) are assigned as necessary to satisfactorily perform job functions, ensure compliance, and support efficient company operations. Some positions require work at irregular hours (nights/weekends), overtime, alternating shifts, and working in challenging conditions (heat/cold, hazardous environments, loud worksites). Overtime hours worked are paid to nonexempt employees at one and a half times their hourly pay rate.

Note:

The company has reviewed this job description to ensure that essential functions and basic duties have been included. It is intended to provide guidelines for job expectations and the employee's ability to perform the position described. It is not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all functions, responsibilities, skills and abilities. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. This document does not represent a contract of employment, and the company reserves the right to change this job description and/or assign tasks for the employee to perform, as the company may deem appropriate.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents acknowledge that they possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.