The demand for skilled professionals in data center construction is at an all-time high, with intense competition for top talent. Organizations are addressing workforce gaps through innovative hiring and retention strategies.
Top 5 In-Demand Data Center Construction Roles: Salaries and Responsibilities
Project managers are the backbone of data center construction, acting as the driving force behind site feasibility studies, design procurement, daily operations, and final commissioning stages. Around 60% of their work revolves around managing MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) systems to maintain the critical 99.99% uptime standard.
Their role involves coordinating intricate electrical and mechanical systems, overseeing prefunctional checklists, conducting equipment testing, and ensuring strict adherence to "zero-failure" standards. This level of responsibility requires a deep understanding of technical systems and strong leadership skills. Joe Proulx, VP of Operations at Mortenson Data Center Group, highlights the scale of these projects:
"These hyperscale data centers are very large, complex buildings that range from 500,000 to 1 million gross square feet".
The job has transformed significantly with the rise of simultaneous campus construction. Instead of focusing on a single facility, project managers now juggle multiple buildings at once, often operating 24-hour shifts with teams of 40 to 60 people per build. They collaborate closely with hyperscale clients like Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta, who remain actively involved on-site throughout the construction process.
Project managers with data center expertise can expect annual salaries between $120,000 and $180,000, while those managing specific construction phases typically earn $140,000 to $165,000. Senior-level positions, especially remote roles requiring occasional travel, can exceed $200,000 a year.
The demand for skilled project managers is intense. Maria Davidson, CEO of Kojo, emphasizes:
"Talented project managers and foremen are the rock stars of the industry. There's huge competition, and we're seeing a lot of companies poach each other's teams".
This demand is projected to remain "Very High" through 2026, fueled by the rapid growth of the industry and the specialized skills required. To address talent gaps, companies are recruiting from adjacent fields like oil and gas and even hiring individuals with military backgrounds, such as nuclear technicians and helicopter mechanics, for leadership roles. Some firms, like Schweiger Construction, are adapting by offering remote senior PM roles, allowing professionals to work from anywhere in the U.S. with site visits as needed.
The industry also faces a looming talent shortage due to demographics: 45% of data center professionals have 20+ years of experience, raising concerns about retirements in the near future. To combat this, major players like Amazon, Google, and Microsoft are investing in apprenticeship programs and workforce training to develop the next generation of leaders.
Given the scope of responsibilities, the qualifications for project managers are stringent. Ideal candidates are those with hands-on trade experience who have transitioned into leadership roles in design-build projects. Brent Arnholter, an AEC expert at Actalent, explains:
"Ideal candidates come from the trades and have evolved into design-build leaders who can coordinate across disciplines and adapt to fast-changing requirements".
Proficiency in tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and project management platforms is essential for maintaining transparency and managing complex workflows. Beyond technical skills, project managers must excel in communication and thrive under pressure, resolving cross-disciplinary challenges quickly. Many roles also require a "travel-ready" mindset, as projects are increasingly located in remote areas with favorable power access and tax incentives.
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) coordinators and engineers play a critical role in large-scale data center projects, managing around 60% of the technical workload, which includes some of the most intricate and demanding tasks in construction. Kari Labucki, Senior MEP Project Manager at Mortenson, highlights:
"About 60% of the work on these mega data center projects revolves around the MEP systems. As a result, there is significant career growth opportunities for MEP professionals, especially in leadership roles".
These professionals are responsible for designing and implementing vital systems such as power distribution, high-density cooling setups, ventilation networks, and water systems for cooling and fire suppression. With AI workloads driving the need for advanced infrastructure, MEP systems are evolving to include GPU-optimized environments and more advanced electrical and cooling capabilities. Engineers in this field must also be well-versed in redundancy standards like N+1 or 2N, ensuring critical systems are duplicated to prevent downtime.
Collaboration between design and construction teams is essential. Brent Arnholter, an AEC expert at Actalent, explains:
"These projects are MEP-heavy and require seamless integration of AI systems, power and cooling. That means design and construction teams have to collaborate in real time".
Proficiency with tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and project management platforms is non-negotiable. These technologies allow teams to visualize system interactions and avoid costly errors before construction begins. Additionally, MEP coordinators must plan for "future IT loads", designing modular systems capable of adapting to evolving technology and increasing rack density.
Given the technical complexity and collaborative demands of these roles, compensation reflects their importance.
MEP Engineers working on data center projects typically earn between $95,000 and $140,000 annually. For senior positions, such as Senior MEP Project Managers, salaries range from $140,000 to $165,000 per year. These figures highlight the high level of expertise required, as even minor system failures can lead to significant financial losses.
The demand for MEP professionals is projected to remain "Very High" through 2026. In 2024, data center construction accounted for 94% of all U.S. nonresidential growth, creating an unprecedented need for skilled workers in this field. By 2025, the industry will require over 165,000 full-time employees specializing in data center controls and monitoring.
However, the sector faces significant talent shortages. In 2020, 50% of data center owners or operators reported challenges in filling open positions. This issue is exacerbated by the "silver tsunami" of retirements, as 45% of data center professionals have 20 or more years of experience and are nearing retirement. Senior MEP roles often remain unfilled for months due to the highly specialized skills required.
Geographically, demand is shifting from traditional tech hubs like Silicon Valley to states such as Arizona, Virginia, Georgia, and Texas. This trend reflects the industry’s move to areas with better power infrastructure and tax benefits, requiring MEP professionals who are flexible and willing to travel to remote locations.
Most MEP positions require a degree in mechanical or electrical engineering, though candidates with technical trade school backgrounds or substantial on-the-job experience are also considered. Increasingly, the industry values professionals with hands-on trade experience who have transitioned into leadership roles.
Key technical skills include expertise in power-intensive systems, redundancy protocols, advanced cooling technologies (like liquid cooling for AI workloads), and commissioning standards designed to ensure zero downtime. Maintaining server environments within a precise temperature range of 68°F to 72°F is critical for stable operations.
In addition to technical proficiency, strong communication skills and adaptability to new technologies are vital. Joe Proulx, VP of Operations at Mortenson Data Center Group, offers this advice:
"If you have the ability to engage in MEP systems and bring a willingness to learn, grow and advance, the data center demand is only going to increase".
Commissioning specialists play a critical role in ensuring that data centers operate flawlessly before they go live. Acting as the final checkpoint, they meticulously test and validate complex mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) systems to ensure they meet the owner's standards and deliver zero-failure performance - an absolute necessity for avoiding costly downtime.
Joe Proulx, VP of Operations at Mortenson Data Center Group, highlights the importance of their work:
"There is a heightened level of scrutiny and focus revolving around the quality process within these mission-critical facilities".
These specialists are responsible for verifying the integration of advanced cooling and power systems that guarantee 99.99% uptime. Their involvement spans all phases of a project - design, construction, and final handover. Early engagement is particularly valuable, as it helps identify potential system conflicts before construction begins. Their duties include designing testing protocols, conducting on-site inspections, and ensuring redundancy in power and cooling systems to maintain continuous operations.
Given the critical nature of their work, commissioning agents are well-compensated. Annual salaries generally range from $85,000 to $125,000. For roles focused on AI infrastructure and the largest data centers and zero-failure standards, compensation typically falls between $105,000 and $125,000. These figures reflect the technical challenges and high stakes of ensuring system reliability and performance.
The demand for commissioning specialists is soaring. By 2025, the industry will need over 165,000 full-time professionals specializing in data center controls and monitoring. Senior-level commissioning roles, in particular, can take months to fill, which adds significant risk to project timelines. Many commissioning teams operate as "traveling groups", moving between hyperscale projects in different metropolitan areas to meet demand.
Most commissioning roles require either an engineering degree or equivalent technical experience. Certifications such as Certified Commissioning Authority (CxA) or Commissioning Technician (CxT) demonstrate the expertise needed for the job. Specialists must have a deep understanding of complex electrical and mechanical systems, redundancy configurations like N+1 or 2N, controls and monitoring systems, and high-speed network infrastructure.
However, technical skills alone aren't enough. Success in this field also requires excellent communication, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and strong project management skills. The AABC Commissioning Group sums it up well:
"Effective commissioning is an intentional, visible, cooperative and proactive process".
Electrical infrastructure specialists play a critical role in managing the power systems that keep data centers running. They handle everything from sourcing electricity from the grid to optimizing its distribution across server racks. Their work also includes designing emergency backup systems to ensure uninterrupted operations around the clock. These specialists oversee uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems and collaborate with utility providers to meet grid connection deadlines, a task that has grown more complex as data centers now require energy levels comparable to small towns.
The advent of AI infrastructure has introduced even greater challenges. AI workloads demand far more energy than traditional data centers, pushing specialists to adapt power systems to handle higher energy densities and integrate advanced cooling solutions. Karina Hershberg, Associate Principal at PAE Consulting Engineers, highlights this shift:
"AI is introducing significantly more complex power demands, and we need people who really understand the engineering and science behind it".
Superintendents, on the other hand, focus on overseeing the physical construction of these facilities. They manage onsite teams, ensuring that projects meet strict quality and safety standards. Their responsibilities also include coordinating electrical and mechanical systems to prevent overheating and maintain the zero-failure benchmarks that data centers demand.
Salaries for electrical infrastructure specialists range from $70,000 to $110,000 per year, with the median pay hovering around $109,010. In specialized roles, earnings can soar to as much as $281,000 annually.
The need for skilled electrical specialists is on the rise. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, electrical engineering jobs are projected to grow by 9% between 2023 and 2033 - outpacing the average growth rate for all occupations. Meanwhile, global investments in data center expansion and AI infrastructure are expected to hit $3 trillion over the next five years.
Power availability has become a key factor in choosing data center locations. This has led to a "power-first" approach in development, where electrical experts are brought in early during planning. However, finding qualified professionals remains a challenge. In 2023, 58% of global data center operators reported struggling to fill open roles. To address this, companies are increasingly hiring talent from commercial construction sectors and providing specialized training in high-voltage and mission-critical systems.
Excelling in this field requires expertise in high-voltage equipment, backup generators, UPS systems, and power monitoring tools. Educational backgrounds can range from trade certifications to bachelor’s degrees in electrical engineering. For many roles, at least three years of experience in electrical or critical facilities maintenance is essential.
Professional licenses, such as Engineer-in-Training (EIT) and Professional Engineer (PE), can give candidates a competitive edge. Military veterans with experience in electrical and electronic systems are highly sought after due to their familiarity with strict protocols and leadership skills. For those just starting out, programs like the Schneider Electric Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA) offer foundational knowledge, while the Certified Data Center Professional (CDCP) certification provides advanced training for career advancement.
Data Center Project Engineers play a pivotal role in bridging the gap between design teams and onsite construction crews. They translate project plans and specifications for subcontractors, oversee contract documents, manage RFIs, change orders, permits, fee payments, and maintain essential logs. Their responsibilities also include implementing pre-construction quality plans, managing testing and inspection processes - such as three-phase inspections - and tracking non-conformance issues to maintain zero-failure standards. Additionally, they integrate subcontractor as-built documentation into contract updates and oversee the entire project closeout process. In essence, they ensure every project transitions smoothly from design to completion.
With the rise of AI-driven infrastructure, the technical demands of this role have grown significantly. Engineers now need to master advanced MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing), power, and cooling systems to meet the evolving standards of modern projects. This ability to handle complex systems and adapt to new technologies has become a critical factor for success in this ever-expanding field.
The annual base salary for a Project Engineer I in the data center industry typically falls between $84,100 and $113,500, with higher pay adjustments in cities like Seattle (+10%), Washington, D.C. (+12.5%), and Denver (+5%).
The demand for Data Center Project Engineers is surging alongside the rapid growth of the U.S. data center market, which is projected to expand by about 10% annually through 2030. Globally, the need for data center staff is expected to reach nearly 2.3 million full-time equivalents by 2025. However, recruitment remains a significant challenge - half of the data center owners and operators reported difficulty finding qualified candidates in 2020.
Adding to the complexity, many projects are now developed as sprawling multi-building campuses, requiring large-scale, immediate mobilization of engineering talent. As Matt Landek, President of JLL Data Centers Division, explains:
"The pressures are not for the faint of heart. Finding the staff is extremely difficult, the logistics are overwhelming, and there's constant pressure to get the equipment tested and turn the servers on".
The growing scale and geographic reach of these projects amplify the need for engineers who can adapt quickly and travel frequently. Expansion into secondary markets like Columbus, Ohio, and Des Moines, Iowa, has further highlighted this issue, as many new facilities are built in remote areas where local talent is scarce. To address these challenges, large construction firms are increasingly promoting top-performing team members into advanced engineering and management roles.
Most positions require a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and at least two years of experience, although equivalent field experience may also be considered. Beyond academic credentials, hands-on experience with high-density power and cooling systems is crucial. Proficiency in tools such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and project management platforms is also essential for ensuring data visibility and efficient workflows. Strong communication and problem-solving skills are equally important, as engineers must coordinate across multidisciplinary teams and manage tight, high-pressure deadlines.
Each role in the data center industry brings unique benefits and hurdles, shaping how companies approach recruitment and retention. For mission-critical projects, the balance between competitive pay and the demanding nature of these jobs is crucial.
Project Managers are rewarded with top-tier salaries and the prestige of overseeing large-scale capital projects. However, they face relentless schedule demands and the challenge of managing diverse stakeholders across various disciplines. Maria Davidson, CEO of Kojo, highlights the competitive nature of this role:
"Talented project managers and foremen are the rock stars of the industry. There's huge competition, and we're seeing a lot of companies poach each other's teams".
MEP Coordinators and Engineers gain invaluable career growth by working with advanced cooling and power technologies. Joe Proulx, VP of Operations at Mortenson Data Center Group, describes these opportunities as "once-in-a-lifetime". Yet, the role demands expertise in managing significant project scopes, requiring seamless, real-time collaboration across disciplines and mastery of highly technical systems.
Commissioning Specialists play a pivotal role as "gatekeepers", ensuring zero-failure standards before project handover. With AI infrastructure adding complexity, their expertise commands premium pay. However, the recruitment process for these specialists can take months due to the need for deep knowledge of AI-integrated systems and an unwavering commitment to flawless execution.
Electrical Infrastructure Specialists benefit from job stability, driven by the growing complexity of grids and the power-intensive nature of data center projects. Ben Burgett, Vice President of Data Centers at Gray Construction, underscores their importance:
"It's all about electricians, on every project. That's the longest pole of a tent on every project".
Despite this stability, they face challenges like navigating grid bottlenecks, meeting high-density power requirements, and managing equipment delays - all amid a national shortage of approximately 81,000 electricians annually through 2030.
Data Center Project Engineers enjoy structured career progression and exposure to diverse teams. On the downside, they often work under intense scrutiny to meet strict quality standards and must travel frequently to remote or secondary markets where many projects are now located.
Across these roles, the growing scarcity of skilled talent amplifies recruitment challenges. From commissioning specialists, where candidate availability is critically low, to project engineers, with moderate availability, these trade-offs shape hiring strategies and highlight broader workforce trends.
The surge in data center construction has created a pressing need for specialized talent, spanning roles from project managers to electricians. However, recent projections reveal a growing talent gap, pushing organizations to rethink their recruitment strategies to meet this demand effectively.
Early involvement of key trade partners has emerged as a critical strategy. Kurt Wallner, Project Executive at DPR Construction, emphasizes the importance of engaging electrical contractors and design teams during the conceptual stage. This forward-thinking approach ensures workforce capacity is secured well in advance, avoiding the delays that often result from last-minute hiring.
Expanding the criteria for candidates is another way to address the talent shortage. Nancy Novak, Chief Innovation Officer at Compass Datacenters, highlights the value of transferable skills:
"A lot of it really is about opening up and welcoming people who are diverse in all ways, because the transferable skills you see in other industries are very applicable to construction and to data center work."
By considering equivalent experience, internships, or skills from industries like oil and gas or military service instead of formal degrees, companies can significantly widen their talent pool.
Retention of this specialized workforce is just as critical as recruitment. While competitive salaries are part of the equation - electrician wages in high-demand areas have risen by as much as 25% per quarter, and data center project managers earn between $140,000 and $180,000 annually - retention efforts must go beyond pay. Trade partners are increasingly focused on managing worker fatigue. Connor Toomey, Senior Project Manager at HITT Contracting, notes:
"The big conversations that we're having right now with our trade partners is how to manage fatigue."
Strategies such as capping workweeks at 50–60 hours, providing on-site amenities, and closely monitoring subcontractor workloads help safeguard worker well-being and sustain project progress, ensuring the industry’s high standards are upheld.
Hiring skilled workers for data center construction projects is no easy task. One of the biggest hurdles is the lack of specialized talent for essential roles like project managers, MEP coordinators, and commissioning specialists. This issue is made worse by growing competition for seasoned professionals and the increasing demands of large-scale, complex projects.
The surge in AI, hyperscale, and cloud infrastructure developments has only added to the need for engineers and technical experts. Unfortunately, the supply of qualified workers hasn’t kept pace. To complicate matters, many experienced professionals are approaching retirement, further shrinking the pool of available talent. Companies are trying to bridge the gap by offering higher pay, relying more on temporary staff, and fiercely competing to attract the best candidates. Still, finding skilled workers remains a pressing challenge for the industry.
Companies are tackling the talent shortage in data center construction by rolling out attractive compensation packages. These include higher salaries, robust benefits, and enticing perks designed to draw in skilled professionals. Such incentives not only help recruit talent but also play a key role in keeping top-tier employees in a fiercely competitive field.
To streamline staffing needs, many firms are turning to prefabricated and modular construction methods. These approaches cut down on the amount of on-site labor required and speed up project timelines significantly. On top of that, businesses are broadening their recruitment efforts by building diverse talent pipelines. By hiring individuals from varied backgrounds and focusing on early career development, they’re addressing the increasing demand for skilled workers in the industry.
Through these combined efforts, companies are working to overcome workforce challenges and ensure the timely delivery of critical, large-scale projects.
MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) professionals are a cornerstone of data center construction, ensuring these facilities are equipped to handle their unique demands. Data centers rely on intricate infrastructure to support high-power operations, maintain redundancy, and achieve energy efficiency, all while meeting stringent reliability standards.
Their role becomes even more crucial as data centers grow to support AI workloads and cutting-edge technologies. These advancements push electrical and cooling systems to perform at higher levels of precision and efficiency. MEP experts make sure these systems are carefully designed and flawlessly integrated, allowing the facility to function smoothly and dependably, even under the most demanding conditions.
