What are the responsibilities and job description for the Structural Engineer, Data Centers - Memphis position at SpaceXSI?
SpaceX was founded under the belief that a future where humanity is out exploring the stars is fundamentally more exciting than one where we are not. Today, SpaceX is actively developing the technologies to make this possible, with the ultimate goal of making life multiplanetary and expanding consciousness to the stars.
SpaceXSI is building Super Intelligence to help humanity understand the universe. Our teams are building the full Super Intelligence stack: from our Colossus supercomputers, to Grok models, to our suite of applications, including Grok Bot, Grok Build, Grok Imagine, Grok Voice, and X. We're creating a powerful flywheel where more compute trains better models, better models power more useful products, and what we learn from people using those products shapes what we build next.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
We're seeking an experienced Structural Engineer specializing in mission-critical facilities to join our infrastructure team supporting the rapid build-out of large-scale compute clusters and data centers. This role will play a key part in designing and delivering resilient, high-performance structural systems for hyperscale AI training facilities.
You'll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including mechanical, electrical, civil, and construction partners—to ensure structural designs support extreme compute densities, seismic resilience, vibration control, rapid deployment timelines, and operational uptime requirements. This is a full-time, on-site (or hybrid) position with occasional travel to project sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead structural design and analysis for large-scale data center and compute facilities, from conceptual design through construction administration
- Develop and review structural models, calculations, drawings, and specifications using tools like Tekla Structures, ETABS, RISA, STAAD, or equivalent
- Oversee multidisciplinary coordination, ensuring seamless integration of structural systems with MEP, cooling infrastructure, raised floors, rooftop equipment, and modular/precast components
- Perform seismic analysis, vibration isolation design, load path evaluations, and assessments for high-density equipment loads and redundant systems
- Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables; review shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs; conduct site visits and inspections
- Mentor junior engineers and designers; assign tasks and ensure high-quality, on-time delivery
- Identify risks, propose innovative solutions, and drive cost optimization while maintaining safety and compliance with relevant codes (ASCE 7, ACI, AISC, IBC, local seismic requirements)
- Stay current on data center innovations, including modular construction, steel/precast framing, and scalable design approaches
- Provide regular updates to leadership via KPIs, reports, and presentations
- Contribute to process improvements and shared leadership across the team
- Perform and/or review drawings, calculations and analyses to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes and regulations
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor of Science in Civil or Structural Engineering from an accredited university
- Professional Engineer (PE) license required; Structural Engineer (SE) preferred
- 10 years of professional experience in structural engineering for building projects
- Demonstrated expertise in structural design and analysis for mission-critical or hyperscale data center facilities
- Proficiency with structural analysis software (e.g., ETABS, RISA, STAAD) and CAD/BIM tools (e.g., Revit, Tekla Structures, AutoCAD)
- Strong knowledge of building codes, seismic design, vibration control, and interfaces with MEP systems
- Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities
- Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary coordination efforts on mission-critical facilities, where structural design directly supports stringent uptime, seismic resilience, vibration control, and large load capacity requirements
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and communication with internal and external construction team members
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Master's degree in Structural Engineering
- 10 years of experience specifically with large-scale data centers (hyperscale, colocation, or AI compute facilities)
- Experience managing fast-track projects, design-build delivery, and multidisciplinary teams
- Familiarity with modular and prefabricated construction techniques
- Track record of mentoring teams and acting as a subject matter expert
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Ability to travel occasionally (30-50%) for site visits and project support
- Ability to work extended hours when needed to meet aggressive timelines
- Must pass pre-employment background check and drug screening
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