Lead, Controls Technician

ABOUT THE ROLE:

xAI is seeking a Lead Controls Technician to manage day-to-day operations for controls technicians and serve as the primary onsite contact for Instrumentation & Controls (I&C) field work in our data centers and infrastructure. This leadership role combines hands-on technical expertise with team coordination to ensure reliable implementation, maintenance, and optimization of control systems including BMS, EPMS, SCADA, PLCs, and related industrial controls. You will lead troubleshooting and support for critical systems such as cooling, power distribution, and safety protocols while collaborating closely with engineers and operations teams in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Lead and mentor a team of Controls Technicians in the day-to-day implementation, modification, and maintenance of BMS, EPMS, and SCADA systems for data centers, ensuring adherence to engineer specifications and best practices.
• Serve as the primary onsite point of contact for I&C field work, coordinating troubleshooting and repairs of critical systems (e.g., chillers, pumps, power distribution) using PLCs and industrial control technologies.
• Oversee the preparation, updating, and optimization of HMI graphics and interfaces for effective system monitoring and operator use.
• Maintain and enhance automated controls for fire safety, emergency shutdown procedures (ESOP), and other protective systems.
• Monitor and report on key performance metrics (e.g., PUE, infrastructure uptime) via dashboards; drive continuous improvement initiatives.
• Coordinate cross-functional responses to utility grid events, alarms, and operational needs while prioritizing tasks for the team.
• Support commissioning, documentation, and knowledge sharing to build team capabilities and ensure high reliability of controls infrastructure.

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

• Associate's Degree in a technical field (e.g., Controls Technology, Mechatronics, Automation, Electrical Engineering Technology) or equivalent hands-on experience.
• 5+ years of experience working with industrial control systems, including at least 2 years in a lead or senior technician role.
• Strong experience with Ignition SCADA or similar platforms and Siemens TIA Portal (or equivalent PLC programming environments).
• Proven ability to troubleshoot and lead resolution of complex I&C issues in live operational environments.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:

• Advanced proficiency in IEC 61131-3 programming languages (e.g., ladder logic, structured text) and hardware from Siemens, SEL, Rockwell, or similar vendors.
• Experience with HMI development tools, data center or mission-critical facility controls, and performance metrics optimization.
• Demonstrated leadership in mentoring technicians, task prioritization, and cross-team coordination.
• Strong problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills with the ability to work independently while leading a team.
• Familiarity with data center infrastructure (cooling, power, safety systems) and relevant standards/regulations.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to work extended periods standing, in tight quarters, and exposed to noise.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and on-call as needed for critical operations.
• Ability to lift or carry 10-15lbs.
• Subject to pre-employment drug testing and random drug/alcohol testing.