Data Center Architect (SME)

The role

Tailored Solutions is hiring a Subject Matter Expert (SME) Data Center Architect to support the assessment and modernization of enterprise IT infrastructure, evaluating data center facilities to modernize, secure, and harden the environment. The role is on-site in the National Capital Region.

You will assess applicable data centers to determine their suitability for upgrade, modernization, or replacement, and provide authoritative guidance on facility infrastructure, systems architecture, and compliance with industry standards so that mission-critical, no-fail communications capabilities meet current and future operational requirements.

What you will do

• Conduct comprehensive data center assessments to evaluate existing facilities for upgrade feasibility versus replacement.
• Perform detailed infrastructure analysis, including power systems, utilization, and capacity, to determine operational sustainability and scalability.
• Evaluate network architecture and the underlying systems and frameworks in detail.
• Apply industry standards and best practices from governing bodies such as the Uptime Institute (Tier classifications) and TIA-942, plus program-specific requirements.
• Develop assessment reports and recommendations with technical justification and implementation strategies.
• Collaborate with facility managers, network engineers, and program leadership to align technical findings with mission requirements.
• Identify risks, gaps, and deficiencies in current data center operations and propose mitigation strategies.
• Provide expert consultation on data center modernization roadmaps and implementation planning.

What you will need

• Active TS/SCI clearance. Must successfully complete additional customer security eligibility and compatibility determinations.
• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field, with 10 or more years of experience.
• Minimum 10 years of experience in data center design, operations, or infrastructure evaluation, with extensive senior-level hands-on experience.
• Expert knowledge of data center power distribution, UPS systems, generator backup, and electrical infrastructure.
• Comprehensive understanding of Uptime Institute Tier Standards (I through IV) and data center certification processes.
• Proficiency in network architecture evaluation, including structured cabling, fiber optics, and connectivity standards.
• Experience with IT infrastructure requirements, security protocols, and compliance frameworks.
• Strong analytical and documentation skills, with the ability to produce detailed technical assessment reports.
• Strong presentation and interpersonal skills across all levels of senior leadership.

Nice to have

• 15 or more years of experience in data center design, operations, or infrastructure evaluation.
• Professional certification such as Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer (ATD) or Accredited Tier Specialist (ATS), Certified Data Centre Professional (CDCP) or Specialist (CDCS), or a Professional Engineer (PE) license.
• Demonstrated expertise in HVAC systems, cooling technologies (air-cooled, liquid-cooled, containment strategies), and thermal management.
• Knowledge of TIA-942 Data Center Standards and BICSI data center design principles.
• Familiarity with federal data center optimization initiatives (DCOI) and cloud migration strategies.
• Experience with critical infrastructure risk assessment and business continuity planning.
• Background in Department of War communications systems and classified network environments.
• Experience supporting executive-level or national-leadership communications operations.
• Previous program management or technical leadership experience on large-scale infrastructure projects.
• Master's degree in a relevant technical discipline.

Details

• Location: Washington, DC (National Capital Region), on-site.
• Clearance: Active TS/SCI, with additional customer eligibility determinations.
• Compensation: $198,000 to $215,000 per year, matched to experience.
• Type: Full-time. Reference TS-2026-DCA.

Tailored Solutions, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.