Architect, Data Centers & Workplace

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 engineers are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates.

About the Role

As Architect - Data Centers & Workplace, you will lead the strategic planning, design, and execution of facilities and infrastructure solutions for 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

• Plan, design, and support the 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.
• Initiate, scope, design, estimate costs, and execute facility and infrastructure projects critical to AI operations, production ramps, 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.
• Drive strategic workplace program planning and delivery, overseeing CAPEX/OPEX budgets, financial reporting, and space optimization for the workforce across multiple sites.
• Partner with real estate and leasing teams on site selection, due diligence, and lease negotiations for new facilities, contributing architectural insights to strategic expansion decisions.
• Lead global portfolio management for offices, labs, and data centers, including scenario planning for lease renewals, fit-outs, and adaptive reuse projects.
• Oversee external partners (architects, engineers, builders, vendors) to ensure design excellence, cost-effective procurement, and adherence to Master Service Agreements (MSAs).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture (10-year professional program preferred) from an accredited institution.
• Active Architectural licensure in at least one U.S. state (CA or NY licensure highly transferable); NCARB certification strongly preferred.
• LEED AP certification or equivalent in sustainable design.
• 15+ years of progressive experience in architectural design and project management, with direct hands-on involvement in data center development, site construction, and workplace planning in high-tech environments.
• Proven track record leading complex, multi-disciplinary projects in fast-scaling organizations (e.g., automotive, tech, or AI infrastructure).

Preferred Qualifications

• 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

xAI is an equal opportunity employer.