Researcher II – Data Center Energy Systems

Job Title

Researcher II – Data Center Energy Systems, Golden, Colorado. Fixed term, 40 hours per week.

The Advanced Computing Operations (ACO) group at the National Laboratory of the Rockies focuses on data center operations and research. Researchers develop and evaluate heat and mass transfer components for data center facilities.

• Develop, improve, and conduct first‑principles numerical modeling of heat exchangers, thermal energy storage, and HVAC systems.
• Design, develop, and analyze new HVAC processes and components for data centers.
• Perform laboratory experiments on fluid/thermal components and systems.
• Contribute to scientific papers and technical reports.
• Manage project tasks, coordinate with cross‑functional teams, and support group operations.
• Execute physical tasks in the data center, including wiring, fabrication, commissioning of equipment, and maintenance of experimental setups.

• Relevant Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree with at least 2 years of related experience.
• Solid knowledge of engineering technical standards, principles, theories, concepts, and techniques.
• Training in team, task, or project leadership responsibilities.
• Intermediate to advanced knowledge of engineering practices and techniques.
• Beginning experience in project management and strong writing, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Must meet educational requirements prior to start date.

• Recent graduate with a strong academic and research record in heat transfer, thermodynamics, or mass transfer.
• Degree in mechanical engineering, architectural engineering, or equivalent scientific field.
• Experience with numerical modeling tools such as EES, MATLAB, Python, or similar.
• Hands‑on experience with HVAC fundamentals, refrigeration cycles, and building thermodynamic cycles.
• Knowledge of building modeling, integration with thermal storage, and HVAC laboratory experiments.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with a willingness to accept a variety of technical and non‑technical tasks.
• Desire to learn, grow, and contribute to data center technology research.

$76,600 – $126,400 per year (full‑time, 40 hours per week).

Benefits include medical, dental, and vision insurance; short‑term and long‑term disability insurance; pension benefits; 403(b) employee savings plan with employer match; accidental death and dismemberment insurance; paid time off, sick leave, and holidays; tuition reimbursement. Limited‑term positions are not eligible for long‑term disability or tuition reimbursement. Eligibility rules apply.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, color, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, domestic partner status, military or veteran status, national origin, race, religion, creed, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding), sexual orientation, or any other protected status.