Manager, Operations Engineering (Physical Infrastructure)

Job Overview

As a Manager, Operations Engineering (Physical Infrastructure) on the xAI infrastructure team, you will lead the design, build, activation, and continuous optimization of technically advanced data centers and AI compute facilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a team of Operations Engineers and analysts focused on physical infrastructure optimization for xAI's hyperscale data centers
• Define and own department-level visual standards, JIRA workflows, PowerBI dashboards, and operational processes; drive adoption and continuous refinement across the organization
• Champion department-wide continuous improvement projects, including new process rollouts, standardization, and lean/six sigma initiatives
• Partner with all levels of the business to map current workflows, identify systemic gaps, and implement scalable solutions
• Establish and evolve department-level metrics & dashboards that quantify operational health, drive data-informed decisions, and demonstrate impact to leadership
• Conduct in-depth analyses using SQL, Python, Excel, and other tools to uncover trends, mitigate risks, and recommend optimizations
• Develop and implement automation, tools, and reports that reduce business risk, improve efficiencies, and enhance communication with facility and site directors
• Lead department-wide operations audits to streamline repair, maintenance, and construction engineering workflows
• Own maintenance program enhancements, focusing resources on critical hardware health while descoping low-value work
• Evaluate, select, and implement construction management, maintenance, and facilities tools (software/hardware) to minimize waste and maximize technician/engineer productivity
• Perform site services analysis for contracts (custodial, utilities, waste, power, cooling, fiber, etc.), negotiate improvements, and build roadmaps for cost optimization and reliability
• Standardize material libraries and procurement processes to reduce lead times and support rapid scaling across sites
• Drive alignment and best-practice sharing with maintenance and construction teams at other xAI sites nationwide to eliminate duplication and accelerate execution
• Build and mentor high-performing cross-functional teams while fostering a culture of operational excellence and accountability

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering discipline, operations research, industrial engineering, management science, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in operations, process improvement, or facilities management (with progressive leadership experience managing teams or projects)
• Demonstrated experience with Excel, SQL, Python, Power BI, JIRA, or similar tools for data analysis, visualization, and workflow management
• Proven track record leading cross-functional initiatives in fast-paced environments

Preferred Skills and Experience

• Previous experience in data centers, hyperscale infrastructure, manufacturing, supply chain, or production environments
• Strong proficiency in statistics, data analysis, data visualization, cost-benefit analysis, and operational excellence frameworks (Lean, Six Sigma, etc.)
• Hands-on experience with CAD, ArcGIS, Archibus, BMS/SCADA, ERP systems, inventory/capacity planning, or critical infrastructure (MEP systems)
• Experience contributing to or leading multi-disciplinary teams in construction, commissioning, or facilities operations
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment with extended hours/weekends as needed and occasional short-notice travel