ABOUT xAI
xAI’s mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company’s mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
As an Architectural Designer for the Data Centers, you will lead the strategic planning, design, and execution of facilities and infrastructure solutions for xAI's data centers and site builds. Drawing on expertise in complex, multi-stakeholder projects, you'll collaborate across engineering, procurement, construction, and business teams to deliver integrated, compliant designs that align with aggressive timelines and innovation goals. This position reports to the Facilities Leadership team and is an opportunity that requires travel to different locations and cross-site collaboration.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Support the planning, design, and construction of advanced data centers and AI infrastructure, including high-performance computing facilities at new and existing sites.
- Collaborate with civil, structural, MEP, and fire protection disciplines, as well as procurement and construction teams, to develop integrated solutions optimized for scalability, efficiency, and reliability.
- Create Basis of Design documents and Request for Quotation (RFQ) packages for external consultants, architects, and vendors; respond to RFIs and iterate based on feedback.
- Conduct site visits and assessments to refine designs, incorporating existing site conditions, risk mitigation strategies, and delivery objectives for seamless project execution.
- Ensure compliance with local building codes, zoning, and environmental standards while providing technical guidance on architectural elements.
- Assist in scoping, estimating, and executing facility and infrastructure projects critical to AI operations and business continuity.
- Build and maintain strong cross-functional partnerships with internal stakeholders, including engineering leads, operations teams, and executive leadership, to align on project expectations and streamline workflows.
- Develop architectural designs, including drafting, 3D modeling, renderings, and documentation using Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, and related tools
- Oversee external partners (architects, engineers, builders, vendors) to ensure design excellence, cost-effective procurement, and adherence to Master Service Agreements (MSAs).
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor's degree in Architecture from an accredited institution.
- Active Architectural licensure; NCARB certification strongly preferred.
- 2+ years of progressive experience in architectural design and project management, with direct hands-on involvement in data center development, and site construction in high-tech environments.
- Proven track record leading complex, multi-disciplinary projects in fast-scaling organizations (e.g., automotive, tech, or AI infrastructure).
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Expertise in high-performance computing facilities, such as supercomputer deployments or AI-optimized data centers.
- Proficiency in design and collaboration tools: AutoCAD/Revit, SketchUp, Jira/Bluebeam, Adobe Creative Suite, Microsoft Office Suite.
- Experience delivering flagship projects for leading tech companies (e.g., HQ relocations, R&D labs, wellness centers with integrated data infrastructure).
- Strong background in global portfolio management, including lease scenario planning and cross-functional collaboration with IT, security, HR, and legal teams.
- Familiarity with agile project methodologies for rapid prototyping, site adaptations, and vendor negotiation
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