Controls Lead

Job Type: Full-time |

Location: Sydney, Australia |

Department : Engineering |

Reporting to: Engineering Manager |

Work Location: Hybrid

IREN is a vertically integrated AI Cloud provider, delivering large-scale data centers and GPU clusters for AI training and inference. IREN’s platform is underpinned by its expansive portfolio of grid-connected land and power in renewable-rich regions across North America, Europe and APAC.

The Controls Lead will lead the company’s efforts in relation to the design, installation, commissioning, operation and maintenance of Automation and Controls systems for our air or liquid-cooled High Performance Computing (HPC) Data Centres. This role is suited to an experienced controls and automation professional with a strong background in mission-critical or data centre environments. You will bring a deep understanding of the interdependencies between mechanical and electrical systems, and the ability to develop control topologies from concept through to detailed design, commissioning and operation. As a key technical authority within the business, you will be involved across the full project life cycle from early design through to commissioning and ongoing operations ensuring control and automation systems are fit for purpose and deliver the highest levels of performance and efficiency.

With 100% renewable energy, we build, own and operate our data centers and take pride in being at the forefront of sustainable solutions for the ever-evolving applications of high-performance compute. We believe that human progress is invaluable, but it should be done in the right way – responsibly, sustainably and having a positive impact on the communities we operate in.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering (or related discipline); a postgraduate qualification is advantageous. Minimum 7–10 years of experience in controls and automation, with significant exposure to heavy industrial or mission-critical environments.
• Sound knowledge of electrical and mechanical cooling systems and their modes of operation, relevant magnitudes, their typical field devices, their sensors and actuators (e.g. energy, temperature, pressure, flow, vibration), their signal types and wiring methods for control and monitoring
• Strong understanding of controls and automation frameworks and tools like mapping of mechanical/electrical physical systems inputs and outputs, PLCs, SCADA systems, systems interconnection and communication protocols
• Sound understanding of control theory (e.g. PID loops, ON/OFF control with hysteresis, scaled inputs from separate control algorithms, etc)
• Knowledge of industrial networks and the different communication protocols used in them
• Excellent abstract thinking, as well as analytical and problem-solving skills
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills to cater to different audiences with diverse backgrounds, from junior staff to senior leadership
• Self-driven individual, with attention to detail and ability to execute high-quality work with limited direction
• Ability to deal comfortably with uncertainty and limited resources or information
• Applicants must have the right to work in Australia

IREN is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager the Controls Lead is responsible for…

• Act as first point of contact for all matters related to project development of data centre controls and automation for our High-Performance Computing data centres
• Understand mechanical and electrical systems used in datacenters, their function, modes of operation and interdependencies, being able to develop a coherent controls philosophy that allows a seamless integration and efficient operation
• Lead or participate as necessary in any design, construction or commissioning efforts as part of the different projects life cycle, acting as company's key point of contact for controls and automation discipline
• Understand different platforms and tools used in the control of mission-critical facilities, including data centre infrastructure management (DCIM) solutions, like energy management, alarm management, etc.
• Work with mechanical and electrical engineers to ensure proper system integration and equipment operation, making sure that new equipment or changes in operational conditions and physical requirements are captured and translated seamlessly into the relevant control designs and systems.
• Provide input to ensure new equipment and systems are properly and seamlessly integrated into the company’s existing enterprise monitoring platforms
• Stay current with new technologies in the controls and automation fields, allowing the company to be at the leading edge of design and operational excellence of data centres.
• Coach and train other staff on the theory, design and use of control systems and tools
• Provide technical mentorship and support the capability development of junior and mid-level engineers within the controls discipline

At IREN, we offer a comprehensive, market-competitive total rewards package designed to support employees’ well-being, career advancement, and financial wealth. Our offerings reflect our commitment to Proceed with Purpose while rewarding high performance and long-term growth.

• Compensation & Rewards Competitive salary range based on experience and impact Short- and long-term incentive programs designed to reward both results and long term company success

Wellbeing & Benefits

• Comprehensive extended health and dental coverage to keep you and your family supported
• Three weeks of paid vacation to recharge, travel, or simply enjoy more life outside of work (note that paid vacation is for salaried employees only)

Work Environment A modern hybrid model — collaborate in our Sydney office Tuesday–Thursday, with flexibility the rest of the week

Casual, comfortable attire so you can bring your best self to work without the suit-and-tie Access to an onsite, fully equipped gym to make wellness part of your workday

We value diverse perspectives and believe that skills can be developed. If you’re passionate about this role, we want to hear from you — whether you meet every criteria or not. Your unique experiences might be exactly what we need!

IREN is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to creating an inclusive workplace. We are committed to evaluating qualified applicants and do not discriminate against protected characteristics under applicable legislation. This job will remain posted until filled. While we appreciate all applications we receive, we are only able to contact candidates under consideration.

By applying for this position and submitting your resume and application materials, you consent to the processing of your personal information in accordance with our Job Applicant Privacy Statement available on our website at www.iren.com.