HPC Mechanical Manager

Job DescriptionJob Type: Full-Time l Location: Childress, TX l Department: Operations l Reporting to: Senior Operations Manager HPC | Work Location Type: #onsite IREN is a leading AI Cloud Service Provider, delivering large-scale GPU clusters for AI training and inference.  IREN’s vertically integrated platform is underpinned by its expansive portfolio of grid-connected land and data centers in renewable-rich regions across the U.S. and Canada. With 100% renewable energy, we build, own and operate our data centers and take pride in being at the forefront of sustainable solutions for the ever-evolving applications of high-performance compute. We believe that human progress is invaluable, but it should be done in the right way – responsibly, sustainably and having a positive impact on the communities we operate in.The HPC Mechanical Manager is the senior operations authority for the Central Utility Plant (CUP) at a hyperscale AI/ML data center in West Texas. This role holds full accountability for the safe, continuous 24x7 operation of all thermal, water, and mechanical systems enabling high-density GPU compute — including direct liquid-to-chip (DLC) cooling, chilled water plants, and air-side infrastructure. It combines deep technical authority with hands-on people leadership in a Tier III/IV-equivalent, mission-critical environment. We have grown substantially since 2019, from our inception in Australia to now having several facilities across North America and being listed on NASDAQ… and we are just getting started! By joining us, you will be contributing to the future of sustainable high-performance compute and the local communities we strive to have a positive impact on.   Job RequirementsValid 2nd Class Power Engineering License (or ability to obtain/maintain per site authority)5+ years operating mission-critical or industrial utility systems with progressive leadership responsibilityStrong CUP fundamentals: chillers, hydronic/glycol loops, pumps, heat exchangers, VFDs, mechanical refrigerationHands-on experience with HPC liquid cooling (CDUs, manifolds, filtration, leak detection)Ability to read one-lines, P&IDs, and MEP drawings; proficient with BMS/SCADA/PLC systemsProven ability to lead teams in high-availability, high-consequence environmentsMust lift 50 lbs., climb ladders, work in varied environments; on-call rotation required Preferred QualificationsBoilers, steam systems, large-frame gas or steam turbines; hyperscale data center or heavy industrial backgroundEPA 608 Universal; OSHA 10/30; NFPA 70E; cooling tower water treatment certificationCMMS proficiency; hydronic balancing and data center thermal operations experienceJob ResponsibilitiesCUP & Cooling SystemsOwn end-to-end CUP operation targeting 99.999% availability of cooling, water, and thermal servicesOperate, monitor, and optimize chillers, pumps, cooling towers, dry coolers, heat exchangers, CDUs, hydronic distribution, and expansion systemsOversee demineralized water treatment; ensure ultrapure make-up water quality for DLC loops, secondary cooling, closed-loop circuits, and buffer tanksSupport liquid-cooled HPC (CDUs, manifolds, filtration, leak detection) and air-cooled data halls (CRAH/CRAC, AHUs, humidity and temperature control)Operate BMS/SCADA/PLC systems; interpret alarms, trend performance, and adjust setpoints within approved operating envelopesWater Chemistry & Environmental ComplianceControl chemistry for chilled water, condenser water, glycol/hydronic loops, and DLC circuits; manage scaling, corrosion, fouling, and biological riskOversee safe handling and storage of bulk chemicals (acids, caustics, biocides); ensure HSE and spill prevention complianceAct as site authority for environmental incidents, near misses, RCAs, and corrective action closure24x7 Operations & Incident ResponseLead Control Room and Field Operations: alarm management, trend-based fault detection, and rapid response to abnormal conditions and thermal excursionsExecute EOPs during plant upsets; communicate status and recovery actions to stakeholders; coordinate during maintenance windows and commissioningMaintain accurate operating logs, shift turnover documentation, incident reports, and work ordersSafe Work & Change ManagementGovern Permit-to-Work and LOTO; enforce procedural discipline and exercise stop-work authorityChampion a “safety first, always” culture.Own MOPs/SOPs/EOPs — draft, validate during execution, and incorporate lessons learnedCoordinate with maintenance and engineering teams for safe return-to-service without impact to live loadsPeople LeadershipLead a multi-disciplinary CUP team: Power/Stationary Engineers, Control Room Operators, and Field TechniciansManage 24x7 shift coverage, staffing, overtime, and on-call rotationsConduct performance management, coaching, and development; drive training in DLC cooling, water chemistry, and emergency operationsLead recurring drills: alarm response, thermal excursion, and leak eventsReliability & Continuous ImprovementTrack KPIs: utility availability, chemistry compliance, incident metrics, PM completion, backlog health, and energy/water performanceLead RCAs; drive corrective actions and optimization of plant efficiency, WUE, and thermal performanceMaintain Tier III/IV design intent compliance and regulatory readinessJob BenefitsAt IREN, we offer a comprehensive, market-competitive total rewards package designed to support employees’ well-being, career advancement, and financial wealth. Our offerings reflect our commitment to Proceed with Purpose while rewarding high performance and long-term growth. Compensation The salary range will start at $145,000. Actual compensation will be determined based on factors such as experience, qualifications.Overtime compensation for non-exempt workers for hours worked over 40 per week.Health & Wellness 100% company paid health insurance premiums (medical, dental, and vision) for employees, 75% company paid coverage for dependentsCompany-paid short-term and long-term disability insuranceVoluntary life, critical illness, and accident coverage availableHealth Savings Accounts (HSA) – when combined with the High-Deductible Health PlanEmployee Assistance Program and wellness resourcesRetirement & Financial Wealth 401(k) retirement plan with company matchPaid professional development and access to financial planning and legal servicesTime Off & Leave Programs Paid Time Off (PTO) and paid holidaysGrowth & Development Professional development to support certifications, continuing education, or role related trainingCommunity & Culture Company events and team-building activitiesWe value diverse perspectives and believe that skills can be developed. If you’re passionate about this role, we want to hear from you — whether you meet every criteria or not. Your unique experiences might be exactly what we need!   IE US Operations Inc., the employing entity and proud member of the IREN group is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We are committed to evaluating qualified applicants and do not discriminate against protected characteristics under applicable legislation. IE US Operations, Inc. “IREN” participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the United States. By applying for this position and submitting your resume and application materials, you consent to the processing of your personal information in accordance with our Job Applicant Privacy Statement available on our website at www.iren.com.