Mechanical Engineer – Cooling and Thermal Systems for Data Centers
Join our data center engineering team to design and develop next-generation cooling and thermal management systems tailored for high-performance data center environments. This role focuses on mechanical design, component selection, system optimization, and ensuring manufacturability of advanced cooling equipment that meets the rigorous demands of modern data infrastructure.
What You Will Do
Design mechanical components and assemblies for cooling systems, including pumps, heat exchangers, piping networks, and structural frameworks.
Perform detailed mechanical analyses such as stress, vibration, and thermal expansion evaluations.
Select and specify mechanical components (e.g., pumps, valves, fittings, insulation) based on performance, reliability, and cost-effectiveness.
Develop 3D CAD models and detailed engineering drawings using SolidWorks and other CAD tools.
Collaborate with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are optimized for production, assembly, and serviceability.
Conduct design reviews and participate in DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly) processes.
Support prototype development, including test fixture design and mechanical testing procedures.
Perform fluid flow and pressure drop analyses for hydraulic performance optimization.
Ensure compliance with industry standards (ASME, ANSI, UL) and data center-specific requirements.
Provide technical support to field installation teams, including design clarifications and troubleshooting.
Continuously improve existing designs based on field feedback, cost reduction opportunities, and performance enhancements.
Coordinate with suppliers and vendors for component sourcing and technical specifications.
Required Qualifications
Degree or advanced degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
BS and 6 years of experience; or MS and 4 years of experience; or PhD and 2 years of relevant experience.
Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks and/or others).
Strong foundation in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) for structural and thermal simulations.
Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, and assembly.
Experience in component selection and vendor engagement.
Understanding of engineering materials, corrosion resistance, and material compatibility.
Familiarity with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T).
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
Immigration Sponsorship not available for this role
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with cooling system design, HVAC equipment, or thermal management technologies.
Familiarity with data center infrastructure and operational requirements.
Experience in pump and heat exchanger design and selection.
Background in hydraulic system design and analysis.
Experience with design optimization and cost reduction strategies.
Understanding of reliability engineering and FMEA (Failure Mode and Effects Analysis).
Annual or Hourly Compensation Range
Benefits
Ecolab strives to provide comprehensive and market-competitive benefits to meet the needs of our associates and their families. Click here to see our benefits.
If you are viewing this posting on a site other than our Ecolab Career website, view our benefits at jobs.ecolab.com/working-here.
Potential Customer Requirements Notice
To meet customer requirements and comply with local or state regulations, applicants for certain customer-facing roles may need to:
- Undergo additional background screens and/or drug/alcohol testing for customer credentialing.
- Be fully vaccinated for COVID-19, including a booster if eligible, unless a religious or medical accommodation is requested by the applicant and approved by Ecolab.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Ecolab will provide reasonable accommodation (such as a qualified sign language interpreter or other personal assistance) with our application process upon request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you have a disability and require accommodation assistance in this application process, please visit the Recruiting Support link in the footer of each page of our career website.
Top Skills
Similar Jobs
What you need to know about the Chicago Tech Scene
Key Facts About Chicago Tech
- Number of Tech Workers: 245,800; 5.2% of overall workforce (2024 CompTIA survey)
- Major Tech Employers: McDonald’s, John Deere, Boeing, Morningstar
- Key Industries: Artificial intelligence, biotechnology, fintech, software, logistics technology
- Funding Landscape: $2.5 billion in venture capital funding in 2024 (Pitchbook)
- Notable Investors: Pritzker Group Venture Capital, Arch Venture Partners, MATH Venture Partners, Jump Capital, Hyde Park Venture Partners
- Research Centers and Universities: Northwestern University, University of Chicago, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Illinois Institute of Technology, Argonne National Laboratory, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory


