3D Design Engineer – Data Center

RESPONSIBILITIES & DUTIES

Kforce has a client in Fremont, CA that is seeking a 3D Design Engineer to drive the mechanical architecture of next-generation, liquid‑cooled data center infrastructure. This role commands ownership over the mechanical design lifecycle, from digital modeling and simulation to final documentation, for systems at both the server‑rack and data‑hall scale. The ideal candidate will bring a robust portfolio of experience in advanced CAD modeling, intricate liquid‑cooling system design, and seamless integration of electrical components like power shelves, BBUs, and busbars.

• Own the end‑to‑end mechanical design of 3D assemblies, including rack structures, cooling manifolds, and fluid connectors, while ensuring the seamless integration of electrical components such as power shelves, busbars, and BBUs.
• Architect and validate high-performance liquid‑cooling systems (e.g., CDMs), optimizing for flow efficiency, thermal performance, and material compatibility.
• Leverage advanced simulation to validate system performance by developing comprehensive digital‑twin models, performing CFD analysis for thermal management, and conducting FEA to ensure structural integrity under operational loads.
• Drive cross‑functional collaboration with hardware, electrical, and facilities teams to achieve a fully integrated and optimized system design.
• Produce comprehensive design documentation, including detailed 3D models, 2D fabrication drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and simulation reports.
• Lead the design review process and ensure all mechanical systems adhere to key industry standards (OCP, ASHRAE, EIA) throughout the entire product development lifecycle.

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 4 years of professional experience in mechanical design, specifically for data center or high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructure.
• Proficiency with a major 3D CAD platform (e.g., Solid Works, CATIA) for designing complex mechanical assemblies.
• Demonstrated expertise in applying simulation tools to validate designs, including CFD for thermal analysis (e.g., Cadence/Future Facilities) and FEA for structural and thermal stress evaluation.
• Comprehensive knowledge of data center subsystems, including the design and integration of liquid‑cooling loops (CDMs, manifolds, connectors) and high‑power electrical components (busbars, power shelves, BBUs).
• Understanding of relevant industry standards (OCP, ASHRAE, EIA) and a proven ability to incorporate them into design practices.
• Exceptional communication skills, with a proven ability to lead technical projects and drive alignment across multidisciplinary teams.

• A proven track record of delivering complete mechanical designs for hyperscale or AI-focused data centers, from concept through to deployment.
• Direct experience developing and utilizing digital‑twin models for system-level simulation and analysis.
• Experience with BIM/Revit for integrating mechanical designs into large-scale facility models.
• A strong portfolio demonstrating success in rack-level thermal optimization or the design of modular cooling solutions.

The pay range is the lowest to highest compensation we reasonably in good faith believe we would pay at posting for this role. We may ultimately pay more or less than this range. Employee pay is based on factors like relevant education, qualifications, certifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, union contract and business needs. This range may be modified in the future.

We offer comprehensive benefits including medical/dental/vision insurance, HSA, FSA, 401(k), and life, disability & ADD insurance to eligible employees. Salaried personnel receive paid time off. Hourly employees are not eligible for paid time off unless required by law. Hourly employees on a Service Contract Act project are eligible for paid sick leave.

Note:

Pay is not considered compensation until it is earned, vested and determinable. The amount and availability of any compensation remains in Kforce’s sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified in its…