Data Center Architect SME

The SME Data Center Architect supports the White House Communications Agency (WHCA) Task Force Raptor, a White House-directed effort to modernize, secure, and harden the C6ISR enterprise supporting the President. This expert-level position evaluates Department of War (DoW) data center infrastructure to determine suitability for upgrade, modernization, or replacement and provides authoritative guidance on facility infrastructure, systems architecture, and compliance with DoW and industry standards. The role supports mission-critical, no-fail communications capabilities and is performed onsite within the National Capital Region., * Conduct comprehensive data center assessments to evaluate existing DoW facilities for upgrade feasibility versus replacement requirements.

• Perform detailed infrastructure analysis of power systems, physical space utilization, and cooling/HVAC capacity to determine operational sustainability and scalability.

• Evaluate network architecture and underlying systems, including cabling infrastructure, redundancy configurations, TEMPEST/EMSEC, and connectivity frameworks.

• Apply industry standards and best practices, including Uptime Institute Tier classifications, TIA-942, and applicable DoW requirements.

• Develop detailed assessment reports and recommendations with technical justification for upgrade paths or facility replacement strategies.

• Collaborate with facility managers, network engineers, program leadership, and other stakeholders to align technical findings with mission requirements.

• Identify risks, gaps, and deficiencies in current data center operations and recommend mitigation strategies.

• Provide expert consultation on data center modernization roadmaps and implementation planning.

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.

• Must possess an active TS/SCI security clearance with Yankee White eligibility.

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Information Technology, or a related technical field.

• Minimum ten (10) years of experience in data center design, operations, or infrastructure evaluation.

• Expert knowledge of data center power distribution, UPS systems, generator backup, and electrical infrastructure.

• Comprehensive understanding of Uptime Institute Tier Standards I-IV and data center certification processes.

• Proficiency in network architecture evaluation, including structured cabling, fiber optics, and connectivity standards.

• Experience with DoW 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 with the ability to communicate effectively with all levels of senior leadership.

• Must have extensive senior-level experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Fifteen (15)+ years of experience in data center design, operations, or infrastructure evaluation.

• Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer (ATD) or Accredited Tier Specialist (ATS) certification.

• Certified Data Centre Professional (CDCP) or Certified Data Centre Specialist (CDCS) certification.

• Professional Engineer (PE) license.

• Experience supporting WHCA or White House support operations.

• Demonstrated expertise in HVAC systems, cooling technologies including air-cooled and liquid-cooled solutions, containment strategies, and thermal management.

• Knowledge of TIA-942 Data Center Standards and BICSI data center design principles.

• Familiarity with federal Data Center Optimization Initiative (DCOI) requirements and cloud migration strategies.

• Experience with critical infrastructure risk assessment and business continuity planning.

• Background in DoW communications systems and classified network environments.

• Master’s degree in a relevant technical discipline.

• Previous program management or technical leadership experience on large-scale infrastructure projects.

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Work is performed onsite within the National Capital Region in secure government and mission-critical data center environments. The position may require access to classified facilities and infrastructure spaces and interaction with facility, network, engineering, and senior program leadership personnel.

Shift

On-site; specific shift or core hours are not specified in the source position description.