Structural Engineer - Data Centers
Zurich, Switzerland
ABOUT HIGH POTENTIALS
High Potentials pursues the mission of understanding the universe within the human organism.
We combine artificial intelligence, biology, medicine, and high-performance computing to precisely decode the foundations of life. Our goal is to understand how aging, disease, and biological limitations emerge — and what is required to overcome them.
We aim to support humanity on its path toward radical longevity. Our long-term vision is to view immortality not as a myth, but as a scientific challenge that can be understood, researched, and ultimately made technologically possible.
Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on scientific and engineering excellence. High Potentials is built for people who ask big questions, seek demanding challenges, and are driven by curiosity, discipline, and long-term thinking.
We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to our mission. Leadership is earned by those who show initiative, take responsibility, and consistently deliver excellence.
A strong work ethic, clear priorities, and precise communication are essential to us. Knowledge should be shared concisely, clearly, and reliably, enabling every team member to contribute directly to the progress of our mission.
ABOUT THE ROLE:
We're seeking an experienced Structural Engineer specializing in mission-critical facilities to join our infrastructure team supporting the rapid build-out of large-scale compute clusters and data centers. This role will play a key part in designing and delivering resilient, high-performance structural systems for hyperscale AI training facilities.
You'll collaborate closely with cross-functional teams—including mechanical, electrical, civil, and construction partners—to ensure structural designs support extreme compute densities, seismic resilience, vibration control, rapid deployment timelines, and operational uptime requirements. This is a full-time, on-site (or hybrid) position with occasional travel to project sites.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Lead structural design and analysis for large-scale data center and compute facilities, from conceptual design through construction administration
Develop and review structural models, calculations, drawings, and specifications using tools like Tekla Structures, ETABS, RISA, STAAD, or equivalent
Oversee multidisciplinary coordination, ensuring seamless integration of structural systems with MEP, cooling infrastructure, raised floors, rooftop equipment, and modular/precast components
Perform seismic analysis, vibration isolation design, load path evaluations, and assessments for high-density equipment loads and redundant systems
Manage project schedules, budgets, and deliverables; review shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs; conduct site visits and inspections
Mentor junior engineers and designers; assign tasks and ensure high-quality, on-time delivery
Identify risks, propose innovative solutions, and drive cost optimization while maintaining safety and compliance with relevant codes (ASCE 7, ACI, AISC, IBC, local seismic requirements)
Stay current on data center innovations, including modular construction, steel/precast framing, and scalable design approaches
Provide regular updates to leadership via KPIs, reports, and presentations
Contribute to process improvements and shared leadership across the team
Perform and/or review drawings, calculations and analyses to ensure structural integrity and compliance with building codes and regulations
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Bachelor of Science in Civil or Structural Engineering from an accredited university
Professional Engineer (PE) license required; Structural Engineer (SE) preferred
10+ years of professional experience in structural engineering for building projects
Demonstrated expertise in structural design and analysis for mission-critical or hyperscale data center facilities
Proficiency with structural analysis software (e.g., ETABS, RISA, STAAD) and CAD/BIM tools (e.g., Revit, Tekla Structures, AutoCAD)
Strong knowledge of building codes, seismic design, vibration control, and interfaces with MEP systems
Excellent communication, problem-solving, and project management skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with changing priorities
Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary coordination efforts on mission-critical facilities, where structural design directly supports stringent uptime, seismic resilience, vibration control, and large load capacity requirements
Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective collaboration and communication with internal and external construction team members
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Licensed Professional Engineer (PE); additional certifications (e.g., Certified Floodplain Manager) a plus.
Strong owner-side or AE firm experience on hyperscale or industrial projects.
Track record of mentoring teams and driving process improvements in mission-critical facility delivery.
5+ years of progressive, high-quality civil engineering experience with a proven track record on data centers, semiconductor fabs, power plants, heavy industrial, or mission-critical facilities.
Experience in land development, hydrology & hydraulics (H&H), floodplain modeling & analysis, stormwater management, underground utilities, and environmental compliance for large-scale industrial projects.
Experience in cross-functional multidisciplinary coordination in fast-paced industrial environments. Experience delivering complex projects with exceptional speed and uncompromising quality in fast-moving environments.
Proficiency with Civil 3D, AutoCAD, HEC-RAS, HEC-HMS, SWMM, ArcGIS, and related BIM/GIS workflows. Experience with advanced floodplain and hydraulic modeling is required.
Knowledge of IBC, ASCE, EPA, local stormwater regulations, floodplain management standards, and industry best practices for data centers and power generation infrastructure.
Proven cross-functional collaboration skills with structural, mechanical, electrical, geotechnical, and construction teams.
Willingness to travel to project sites as required.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to travel occasionally (30-50%) for site visits and project support
Ability to work extended hours when needed to meet aggressive timelines
Must pass pre-employment background check and drug screening