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:
We are seeking an exceptional Construction Manager to lead the construction of a state-of-the-art Doosan combined cycle power plant that will deliver reliable, high-capacity power to xAI's supercomputing infrastructure in the Memphis region.
This high-visibility, mission-critical role will oversee the full lifecycle of a large-scale natural gas-fired combined cycle facility, incorporating Doosan Enerbility's advanced gas turbines, steam turbines, HRSGs, balance-of-plant systems, and supporting infrastructure. You will drive aggressive timelines, ensure world-class safety and quality, manage complex stakeholder interfaces, and deliver the power foundation required to scale AI training at unprecedented levels. This is a full-time, onsite role based in Texas, with potential travel to vendor sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Lead end-to-end construction of the Doosan combined cycle power plant, from site preparation and civil works through mechanical/electrical installation, commissioning, and handover.
- Serve as xAI's primary on-site leader, managing interfaces with Doosan Enerbility, EPC contractors, subcontractors, utilities, and regulatory authorities.
- Develop and maintain detailed construction schedules, resource plans, and progress tracking (using Primavera P6 or similar tools) to meet xAI's aggressive delivery targets.
- Oversee procurement, logistics, erection, and integration of major equipment including gas turbines, steam turbines, generators, HRSGs, cooling towers, fuel systems, and electrical substations.
- Enforce rigorous safety, environmental, and quality standards, ensuring full compliance with permits, emissions controls, OSHA, EPA, and local regulations.
- Manage project budget, cost forecasting, change orders, and risk mitigation; proactively resolve issues to avoid delays or cost overruns.
- Coordinate commissioning, startup, performance testing, and seamless transition to operations teams.
- Lead and motivate large field teams (200+ personnel), subcontractors, and vendors in a high-velocity environment.
- Provide regular progress updates, risk assessments, and key metrics to xAI senior leadership.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
- 15+ years of progressive construction management experience on large-scale industrial projects, with 8+ years specifically leading combined cycle power plant construction (500 MW+ scale preferred).
- Proven track record delivering gas-fired combined cycle facilities on time and budget, including turbine erection, HRSG installation, and balance-of-plant integration.
- Deep expertise in power plant construction sequencing, major equipment installation, piping, electrical systems, and grid interconnection.
- Strong knowledge of U.S. permitting processes, environmental compliance (air quality, emissions, noise), and utility coordination.
- Demonstrated leadership managing large teams, multiple subcontractors, and international OEM vendors under pressure.
- Proficiency with project management tools (Primavera P6, MS Project), cost control, and risk management.
- Ability to thrive in fast-moving, high-ambiguity environments with a no-excuses mindset.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Direct experience with Doosan Enerbility (or similar OEMs like GE, Siemens, Mitsubishi) combined cycle projects.
- Background in power infrastructure supporting data centers, hyperscalers, or mission-critical facilities.
- Familiarity with fast-track construction approaches in the tech/energy sector.
- Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Mechanical/Electrical Engineering, or related field; PE license or advanced degree a plus.
- Knowledge of advanced emissions controls and sustainability practices in power generation.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
- Willingness to work extended hours and be fully onsite during peak construction phases.
- Ability to stand/walk for long periods, work in industrial environments, and travel as needed.
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