At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead mechanical engineering for global data centre projects, ensuring design consistency and innovation.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking company at the forefront of data centre engineering.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and opportunities to work with cutting-edge technologies.
- Other info: Collaborative team environment with a focus on continuous improvement and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a significant impact on global data centre standards and sustainability initiatives.
- Qualifications: Expertise in mechanical systems, HVAC design, and data centre operations required.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 £ per year.
We are seeking a Head of Mechanical Engineering with extensive data centre experience to work in our Global Design & Engineering Team. In this global role, you will drive standards, consistency, and continuous improvement of critical Mechanical Systems whilst providing support to multiple functions. You will report to the Global Director of Design & Engineering, part of the Real Estate Team in Colt DCS.
You will function as the Global Lead and Technical Authority of the Mechanical Engineering discipline, driving standardised design, availability & consistency across our growing portfolio of Data Centres, providing guidance to internal & external stakeholders ensuring design adherence to the Colt DCS Global Reference Design (GRD). You will collaborate with delivery teams to evaluate OFCI equipment offerings ensuring both a Commercial & Technical approach.
You will track innovative technologies (with targeted R&D activities) and new design architectures, identifying, evaluating, and implementing the most efficient ones into our GRD and OFCI equipment technical selection to improve speed to market, while reducing costs of all new data centres.
The role will require to work with multiple functions including Development, Design Management, Project Management, Procurement and Commercial teams, providing assistance on all matters relating to Mechanical Engineering.
The Head of Mechanical Engineering will be accountable for consistency and adherence with Colt DCS Employer’s Requirements and specific Customers requirements on multiple projects globally. Additionally, the Head of Mechanical Engineering will be accountable for the development and maintenance of global technical documentation including design guides, standards & specifications to drive consistency across our estate, implementing lessons learnt and compliance with corporate ESG targets and initiatives.
The Global Design & Engineering Team reports to the Chief Real Estate Officer, and is formed of subject matter experts (Mechanical, Electrical, Civils, Structural, Architecture, Automation Systems, BIM and Technical Sales), with the main responsibility of owning and maintaining the GRD, technical selection & governance of OFCI equipment, ensuring at each stage that the projects are compliant with our standardised delivery plan. Regional Engineering Teams consisting of Design Managers and Specialists (BMS, Security etc) have Design Authority at a project level and interface or escalate technical challenges to the Global Engineering Team for technical direction and guidance.
The Colt DCS values are:
- Trust
- Respect
- Unite
- Sustain
- Trailblaze
- Expertise
Expert knowledge of hyperscale data centre cooling systems, including chilled water, DX, and liquid cooling (direct-to-chip, immersion).
Advanced understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics for high-density and AI/HPC workloads.
Proven capability in design and optimisation of mission-critical HVAC systems (CRAH/CRAC, in-row, heat rejection, hydronics).
Strong experience with CFD modelling and airflow management to optimise data hall performance.
Deep knowledge of energy efficiency and sustainability metrics (PUE, WUE) and low-carbon cooling strategies.
Expertise in redundancy and resilience design (N, N+1, 2N architectures) and Tier I–IV requirements.
Familiarity with BMS, DCIM, and controls strategies for automated, optimised system performance.
Comprehensive understanding of global codes, standards, and guidelines (ASHRAE, CIBSE, ISO, IEC).
Experience integrating mechanical systems with electrical, IT, and modular infrastructure designs.
Proficiency in digital engineering tools and methods (BIM, CFD, energy modelling) and data-driven design approaches.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent) in Mechanical Engineering
- HNC / HNC in Mechanical Engineering
- Chartered or Professional Registered Engineer
Head of Mechanical Engineering in Slough employer: Colt Data Centre Services
Colt DCS is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment where innovation and collaboration thrive. As the Head of Mechanical Engineering, you will be part of a global team dedicated to driving excellence in data centre design, with ample opportunities for professional growth and development. Our commitment to sustainability and cutting-edge technology ensures that you will be at the forefront of the industry, making a meaningful impact while enjoying a culture built on trust, respect, and expertise.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Mechanical Engineering in Slough
✨Get Your Hands Dirty at Engineering Events
Join local engineering meetups or industry conferences related to mechanical engineering. Whether it's a workshop or a career fair, these events are goldmines for networking and getting a foot in the door. Plus, you can showcase your passion and enthusiasm directly to potential employers like Colt Data Centre Services.
✨Connect with Professors & Peers
Tap into your university’s resources—professors often have connections in the industry. Don’t be shy to ask about potential openings or recommendations. Your classmates might also know of companies hiring. Often, it’s who you know that gets you in front of the right people!
✨Highlight Your Projects and Practical Experience
When you land those interviews, make sure to talk about your hands-on projects or internships. Whether it's a design project or hands-on experience with CAD software, specific examples will make you stand out. Companies like Colt Data Centre Services love to hear about practical applications of your skills.
✨Apply Directly on Company Websites
Check out the careers page of Colt Data Centre Services and apply directly through there. It shows initiative and interest in their specific values. Plus, you'll often find openings that aren't advertised on job boards, giving you a better chance to land that full-time gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Mechanical Engineering in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Technical Expertise:In mechanical engineering, it’s vital to highlight your technical skills and projects. Make sure to include relevant software proficiency (like CAD tools) in your CV. If you've worked on specific engineering projects, detail your key contributions — we want to see how you’ve applied your skills in a practical setting!
Focus on Problem-Solving Examples:Employers in mechanical engineering love to see how you handle challenges. Use your cover letter to share specific instances where you’ve solved a complex problem or improved a design. This will show us you're not just knowledgeable but also capable of applying that knowledge effectively.
Highlight Relevant Certifications:Include any relevant certifications or training that can set you apart from the competition. Whether it's coursework from your degree, a recognised certification, or extra training in new technologies, we love to see candidates who continuously improve their skill set. This tells us you're serious about your career in engineering!
Tailor Your CV for the Role:Don’t forget to customise your CV for Colt Data Centre Services and the Head of Mechanical Engineering role specifically. Pull examples from your experience that align with the job description — it shows us you've done your research and are genuinely interested in becoming part of the team. We recommend applying through our website to ensure your application gets to the right people!
How to prepare for a job interview at Colt Data Centre Services
✨Brush Up on Your CAD Skills
Since mechanical engineering often involves design processes, be ready to showcase your proficiency in CAD software like SolidWorks or AutoCAD. Bring along a digital portfolio or even some sketches that demonstrate your design capabilities — it’s a great way to show what you can bring to the table at Colt Data Centre Services.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect technical questions that test your understanding of engineering principles and problem-solving skills. You might get hypothetical scenarios where you need to design a component or troubleshoot a mechanical system. Practising these types of questions will give you the confidence to tackle whatever comes your way!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
As a full-time mechanical engineer, collaboration is key! Be ready to share examples of past team projects or any experiences where you contributed to solving a complex problem with others. Demonstrating your ability to work in a team will resonate well with the interviewers at Colt Data Centre Services.
✨Discuss Your Future Goals
Since this is a full-time position, your long-term vision is important. Be open about your career aspirations, whether it’s mastering a specific tool or leading projects. This shows that you're committed not just to learning but also to growing with Colt Data Centre Services, making you a more appealing candidate.
