Actalent

Mechanical Engineer – CFD Modeling (Data Centers)

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer with expertise in Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to support the analysis and optimization of data center thermal and airflow performance. This role focuses on both interior white space and exterior infrastructure modeling, helping improve cooling efficiency, reliability, and environmental behavior across mission-critical facilities.

The ideal candidate has 3–5+ years of hands-on CFD experience, preferably using Cadence, and a strong understanding of data center cooling systems, airflow behavior, and thermal optimization.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain CFD models (air and liquid) for data center white space and outdoor infrastructure.
• Simulate airflow, heat transfer, and pressure distributions to assess cooling effectiveness, containment strategies, and equipment layouts.
• Analyze interior and exterior environmental conditions to optimize airflow patterns, thermal performance, and overall system behavior.
• Evaluate external site conditions, including wind effects, heat island impacts, and outdoor air intake performance.
• Interpret simulation results to identify thermal risks, inefficiencies, and design improvement opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with Architectural, Electrical, and Mechanical design teams to inform data center design decisions.
• Prepare clear technical reports and presentations summarizing modeling assumptions, methodologies, findings, and design recommendations.
• Support design optimization for cooling systems, containment solutions, and equipment placement.
• Maintain and enhance CFD libraries, including equipment models, boundary conditions, and environmental templates.
• Ensure CFD analyses and recommendations align with ASHRAE TC 9.9 and internal data center design standards.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3–5+ years of experience performing CFD analysis; Cadence experience preferred.
• Experience with data center cooling technologies, including:
  • IT equipment and white space environments
  • Emergency generators
  • Air- and water-cooled chillers
  • Cooling distribution units (CDUs)
  • Cooling towers and adiabatic coolers
  • CRAH/CRAC units
  • Liquid cooling systems and containment strategies
• Strong foundation in thermodynamics and fluid mechanics as applied to HVAC and data center systems.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings, equipment specifications, and facility layouts.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple CFD efforts simultaneously.
• Excellent communication skills, including the ability to present complex technical findings to non-technical stakeholders.
• Working knowledge of industry standards related to data center design.

Preferred Qualifications

• Engineer-in-Training (EIT) or Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Experience supporting high-density or mission-critical data center environments.

Work Environment

• In-office or remote, based on experience and project requirements.

Job Type & Location

This is a Permanent position based out of NEW YORK, NY.

Pay and Benefits

The pay range for this position is $140000.00 - $160000.00/yr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

Workplace Type

This is a hybrid position in NEW YORK,NY.

Application Deadline

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 13, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.