Project Manager - Data Center

As a global pioneer in oil-free centrifugal chiller technology with an expanding portfolio of thermal management solutions, Smardt is dedicated to delivering high-efficiency and energy-saving systems for industries, real estate developments, healthcare, and educational centers worldwide. We operate manufacturing facilities in the U.S., Canada, Germany, China, and Australia, with a team of over 900 employees. With a focus on reliability, performance, and environmental stewardship, Smardt continues to redefine industry standards through advanced engineering and a commitment to a more sustainable future.

What We’re Looking For

The Project Manager – Data Centers is responsible for leading the execution of HVAC and mission-critical cooling projects from sales handover through commissioning and warranty. This role ensures projects are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with technical and contractual requirements, while maintaining high customer satisfaction and strong stakeholder relationships.

What You’ll Do

Project Leadership & Execution

• Oversee a portfolio of HVAC data center projects, ensuring seamless execution from sales handover through commissioning and warranty
• Manage projects in alignment with established PMO standards, tools, and governance frameworks
• Lead day-to-day execution, providing direction to site teams, subcontractors, and supporting functions
• Ensure projects are delivered in accordance with contractual requirements, on schedule, within budget, and with high customer satisfaction
• Maintain accurate project schedules, milestones, and deliverables, ensuring proactive follow-up on critical path activities

Scope & Resource Management

• Manage delivery of the contracted scope, ensuring full alignment with technical specifications and client requirements
• Proactively identify scope gaps and secure change orders for any deviations or additional work
• Coordinate materials, equipment, and shared resources across functions (engineering, manufacturing, service)
• Identify resource constraints and partner with leadership to implement corrective action plans
• Ensure alignment between project schedules and manufacturing / supply chain timelines

Stakeholder & Relationship Management

• Act as the primary interface for customers, including data center operators, general contractors (GCs), and commissioning agents
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders through structured and proactive communication
• Manage subcontractors and partners, ensuring performance, quality, and schedule adherence
• Provide regular project updates (schedule, risks, financials) to internal and external stakeholders
• Escalate issues in a timely and structured manner, driving resolution and maintaining customer confidence

Financial Performance Management

• Take ownership of the financial performance of assigned projects, including margin and cost control
• Identify financial risks and implement mitigation actions to protect project profitability
• Drive disciplined cost tracking and reforecasting throughout the project lifecycle

Technical & Problem Solving

• Develop strong technical knowledge of HVAC systems used in data centers (chillers, cooling plants, controls integration)
• Support and coordinate commissioning activities including FAT, SAT, and Integrated System Testing (IST)
• Analyze technical issues and coordinate cross-functional teams to resolve design, installation, or performance challenges
• Review drawings, specifications, and submittals to ensure alignment with project requirements
• Lead or support root cause analysis (RCA / 8D) and implementation of corrective actions

What You’ll Bring

Experience

• 5 years of experience in project management within HVAC, mechanical, or mission-critical environments
• Experience in data centers, building automation, or complex mechanical/electrical systems
• Strong understanding of project execution processes and lifecycle

Education / Certifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field (or equivalent experience)
• PMP certification or equivalent project management training (preferred)

Technical Skills

• Ability to read and interpret technical documentation, drawings, and project scope
• Familiarity with commissioning processes (FAT, SAT, IST)
• Experience with project management tools (MS Project, Primavera, Monday.com)

Core Competencies

• Strong execution focus and ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Structured communication and stakeholder management skills
• Financial and commercial acumen
• Proactive risk identification and problem-solving mindset
• High level of ownership, accountability, and attention to detail
• Ability to operate effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience managing data center or mission-critical cooling projects
• Experience working with hyperscale or colocation clients (e.g., AWS, Microsoft, Google)

What We Offer

• Competitive compensation
• Health and dental benefits from day one
• 401(k) matching program
• A collaborative global environment with opportunities for growth

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Smardt is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where all individuals are treated with dignity and respect. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, sexual orientation, and gender identity), national origin, age, disability, genetic information, military or veteran status, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

As part of our hiring process, Smardt conducts background checks in compliance with applicable laws.

Please note that Smardt does not accept unsolicited resumes from recruiters or employment agencies. In the absence of a signed Services Agreement with an agency/recruiter, we will not consider or agree to payment of any referral compensation or recruiter fee.