Data Center Sr. Controls Engineer

About Riot Platforms

Riot’s (NASDAQ: RIOT) vision is to be the world’s most trusted platform for powering and building digital infrastructure. Riot’s mission is to empower the future of digital infrastructure by positively impacting the sectors, networks, and communities that we touch. We believe that the combination of an innovative spirit and strong community partnership allows us to achieve best-in-class execution and create successful outcomes. 

Who we are

At Riot, we’re building the future of digital infrastructure. Our team members have unparalleled opportunities to work on groundbreaking initiatives. Through technical excellence and strategic execution, Riot has positioned itself as a leader in the industry driving advancements that continue to set new benchmarks in digital infrastructure.  

We are trailblazers. Problem solvers. People who thrive in fast paced environments, communicate clearly, and bring relentless focus to efficiency and execution.    

About the role

We are seeking a Senior Controls Engineer to lead the design, programming, commissioning, and delivery of Building Management Systems (BMS), PLC/automation, and related controls infrastructure across a distributed data center portfolio. This role requires deep expertise in controls architecture, strong hands-on programming skills, and the ability to lead complex commissioning efforts while defining standards and mentoring engineering teams. You will drive technical excellence across new builds, retrofits, and operational improvements. The role is primarily remote for design and coordination, with travel required to site locations to lead commissioning activities, Factory Acceptance Tests (FAT), and Site Acceptance Tests (SAT). This position requires up to 50% travel to support project and commissioning activities at site locations.

What you'll do

• Lead controls system architecture and design for new data center builds, expansions, and retrofits, including BMS/PLC scope, I/O lists, network topology, integrations, and enterprise controls standards (hardware, software, protocols, cybersecurity, documentation).
• Develop and approve key engineering deliverables including sequences of operation (SOO), control narratives, P&IDs, single-line diagrams, point schedules, and fail-safe control logic with interlocks, alarms, and redundancy strategies.
• Program, configure, and troubleshoot BMS and PLC systems across multiple platforms (e.g., Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider, Tridium, JCI, Honeywell), supporting HVAC, cooling, electrical distribution, and backup power systems.
• Develop and implement advanced control strategies such as load balancing, predictive staging, economizer control, and VFD sequencing, while managing software version control, change management, and system backups.
• Lead Factory and Site Acceptance Testing (FAT/SAT) and full commissioning activities, including test script development, I/O verification, loop tuning, sequence validation, failover testing, and end-to-end system startup.
• Serve as technical owner for controls scope with vendors and integrators, managing submittals, specifications, construction coordination, project integration, and IT/OT cybersecurity and network segmentation requirements.
• Provide escalation-level troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and performance optimization using operational data, alarms, and trend analysis; implement corrective actions and system improvements.
• Mentor engineers and technicians while developing technical documentation (as-builts, O&M manuals, SOPs, training materials) and supporting operational readiness, CMMS integration, and alarm management improvements.

What you'll bring

• 10+ years of hands-on controls engineering experience in design, programming, commissioning, and troubleshooting of BMS and PLC-based automation systems in mission-critical, industrial, or commercial environments.
• Proficiency with PLC/BMS platforms such as Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Tridium Niagara, Johnson Controls Metasys, Honeywell, or equivalent systems.
• Proven experience leading commissioning activities (FAT/SAT), including test development, functional performance testing, and system turnover.
• Strong understanding of controls hardware and protocols, including controllers, I/O, sensors, actuators, VFDs, SCADA/HMI, and industrial networks (BACnet, Modbus, Ethernet/IP).
• Experience with critical facility mechanical and electrical systems, including chillers, cooling towers, pumps, air handling units (AHUs), electrical distribution, and backup power systems (UPS and generators).
• Ability to interpret and develop sequences of operation, P&IDs, control schematics, and technical documentation.
• Knowledge of IT/OT integration, network segmentation, and industrial cybersecurity best practices.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to interface across engineering teams, vendors, and leadership.
• Project management experience and exposure to design-build or design-bid-build project delivery.
• Familiarity with SCADA/HMI platforms (e.g., Ignition, OSIsoft PI), ASHRAE standards, and commissioning processes.
• Bachelor’s degree in engineering or related field, or equivalent hands-on experience.
• Preferred experience in data centers or other mission-critical environments.

Compensation and Benefits 

• Competitive Salary: Base range (commensurate with experience) + bonus + sign-on equity grant. 

• Long-Term Growth: Eligible to participate in Riot’s equity incentive programs and share in the success you help build. 

• 401(k) Retirement Plan: Incudes a generous company match. 

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Multiple medical plan options, including 100% company-paid plans. 

• Wellness & Lifestyle Perks: Enjoy free gym memberships, pet insurance, childcare discounts, and more to support your life both in and out of work. 

Riot is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.