Principal Engineer, Data Center Architect

DigitalOcean is a cutting-edge technology company focused on simplifying cloud solutions. They are seeking a Principal Engineer, Data Center Architect to lead the design and architecture of next-generation data center environments and ensure future-proofing in alignment with industry advancements.

Responsibilities:

• Defining and owning DigitalOcean's reference architectures for next-generation Data Center environments, navigating shifts in technology, networking topologies, and AI/ML hardware roadmaps to keep facility designs future-proofed
• Serving as DigitalOcean's primary technical stakeholder for Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems across both leased colocation and build-to-suit environments, partnering with SMEs in the DC Ops organization
• Provide leadership and guidance as a primary stakeholder in the new site selection process
• Architecting end-to-end cooling designs with vendors and partner teams to support a wide variety of CPU, GPU, and other emerging server hardware
• Architecting end-to-end power topologies with vendor teams to support diverse hardware across medium to ultra-high-density rack deployments, moving from 415VAC to 800VDC
• Leading proof-of-concept (PoC) initiatives for emerging infrastructure technologies and transitioning successful pilots into global deployment standards
• Guiding leadership through the implications of non-traditional data center facilities and emerging technologies such as behind-the-meter (BTM) power, to modular DC designs. Working with internal teams to weigh the business, commercial, and operational risks and tradeoffs
• Mentor engineers at all levels and contribute to a culture of technical excellence, inclusivity, and impact
• Represent DigitalOcean in the broader community attending conferences, contributing to papers and presentations

Requirements:

• 10+ years of experience in data center architecture, infrastructure engineering, or a related field, with a track record of owning designs at scale
• Deep expertise in MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems for both leased colocation and build-to-suit data center environments
• Strong working knowledge of cooling technologies across the spectrum—from air cooling to direct liquid cooling and rack-scale liquid systems—for high-density CPU and GPU deployments
• Familiarity with AI/ML hardware roadmaps and the ability to translate evolving server, networking, and accelerator trends into future-proofed facility designs
• Knowledge of emerging and non-traditional infrastructure approaches such as behind-the-meter (BTM) power and modular/prefabricated data center designs
• Demonstrated ability to lead proof-of-concept initiatives and scale successful pilots into global deployment standards
• Strong cross-functional collaboration skills, partnering with technical and business teams along with external vendors and partners
• Excellent communication and leadership skills, including mentoring engineers and representing the company externally at conferences and through technical papers