Principal Product Controls Engineering Manager

Tract Capital adopts a unique approach to digital infrastructure investment. Leveraging experience and strategic insights honed over three decades of creating successful companies in the space, we excel in nurturing and advancing leading-edge digital infrastructure enterprises. Our team of specialized experts are united by a singular purpose: to support the growth of digital infrastructure. Tract Capital goes beyond simple investment by acting as a strategic partner and catalyst for innovation within the sector. We ensure our engagements not only generate strong financial results but also develop essential digital infrastructure to meet growing demands. Tract Capital has introduced multiple digital infrastructure strategies including horizontal powered land, vertical development, and product development. Position Overview: The Principal Product Controls Engineering Manager leads the controls strategy for advanced mechanical and electrical infrastructure in large-scale data centers, including cooling and power systems. This role drives control architecture and optimization to improve energy efficiency, capacity, and reliability, while developing AI-driven capabilities for real-time optimization, anomaly detection, and predictive maintenance. You will lead a controls engineering team and partner across product, design, operations, and external stakeholders to scale solutions from concept to global deployment. Key Responsibilities: Controls Strategy & Architecture Define controls roadmap, standards, and system architectures across products and sitesDevelop scalable sequence-of-operations frameworks and reusable control librariesEnsure integration with BMS, DCIM, and SCADA systems using secure, open protocols (BACnet, Modbus, OPC UA) Product Controls Development Lead design of control systems including PID loops, safety interlocks, redundancy, and operating sequencesTranslate mechanical and electrical requirements into control logic and embedded softwareOversee controller configurations, I/O definitions, and functional specifications Optimization of Infrastructure Improve PUE, thermal performance, and electrical efficiencyOptimize capacity utilization and system reliability under varying conditionsImplement model-based and data-driven controls using real-time and forecasted inputs AI & Predictive Solutions Develop predictive maintenance and anomaly detection capabilitiesDefine data requirements and partner with data teams to build modelsDeploy AI-driven solutions into real-time or near-real-time environments with appropriate safeguards Testing, Validation & Quality Establish testing frameworks (HIL/SIL), FAT/SAT procedures, and regression testingDefine controls-related quality standards and validation processesLead root cause analysis and issue resolution during commissioning and early operations Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with engineering, design, commissioning, and operations teamsWork with vendors, OEMs, and integrators to align on controls requirements and cybersecurity standardsSupport compliance with applicable codes and safety requirements Leadership & Team Development Build and lead a high-performing controls engineering teamSet technical standards and drive continuous improvementProvide leadership across multiple concurrent projects Key Competencies: Strong background in control systems, industrial automation, and data center infrastructure (HVAC, cooling, power)Experience with optimization, data analysis, and performance improvementFamiliarity with AI/ML applications for predictive maintenance and anomaly detectionProven ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence technical decisionsStrong communication and problem-solving skills Required Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Controls, or related field10+ years of controls engineering experience, with at least 5 years in data centers, HVAC, or power systemsExperience designing and implementing controls for complex mechanical and electrical systemsTrack record of improving system performance, efficiency, or reliabilityExperience leading projects or teams from concept through operationsHands-on experience with PLCs, embedded controls, or BMS/DDC platformsKnowledge of protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, OPC UA, and industrial networkingFamiliarity with data tools such as Python, SQL, or MATLAB Preferred Qualifications: Master’s degree in engineering, controls, AI, or data scienceExperience in hyperscale or colocation data centersBackground in air- or liquid-cooled systems and their control strategiesExperience implementing AI/ML in operational environmentsFamiliarity with industrial cybersecurity practicesExperience managing vendors or third-party partners Additional Information: 25–40% travel to sites, labs, and partner facilitiesWork across office, lab, manufacturing, and construction environmentsCompetitive compensation and full benefits package Expected Salary Range: $300,000 - $350,000 + Discretionary Bonus Tract Capital Employment Tract Capital employees enjoy competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K program, standard paid holidays, and unlimited PTO. NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties to meet the organization's ongoing needs. Tract Capital is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status. If you need assistance applying for any of our open positions, please contact us at mailto:info@tractcapital.com. Locations: Seattle, WA