CoreWeave, the fast-scaling AI cloud company, is set to invest $1.2 billion in converting a former life sciences lab into a state-of-the-art data center in Kenilworth, New Jersey. The announcement marks a major milestone in the state’s growing AI and tech infrastructure boom—and it’s poised to create a wave of demand across construction and skilled labor markets.
The Project: A Lab-to-Datacenter Transformation
The site, Building 11 at the 108-acre Northeast Science & Technology (NEST) campus, formerly operated by Merck, will be fully leased and converted by CoreWeave. The 280,000-square-foot, four-story structure will undergo significant redevelopment to meet hyperscale data center standards.
On top of CoreWeave’s $1.2B commitment, Onyx Equities and Machine Investment Group, the site developers, are expected to contribute another $50 million to support infrastructure upgrades. These include electrical systems, HVAC, physical security, cooling, and rack infrastructure.
Construction Scope & Workforce Demand
Turning a pharmaceutical facility into a hyperscaler-grade data center is no small feat. This project will require:
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Demolition and interior retrofitting
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Heavy electrical infrastructure and generator installation
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Raised floor systems, containment structures, and cabling
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Cooling systems (CRACs, chillers, water cooling lines)
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Roofing, envelope enhancements, and fire suppression
Skilled trades and project management roles in demand:
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Electricians & Low Voltage Technicians
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HVAC and Mechanical Contractors
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Data Center Construction Project Managers
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Security and Access Control Integrators
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Steelworkers and General Contractors
With utilities partner PSE&G also upgrading power infrastructure, including substation enhancements and dual 26kV feeds, this project will further drive demand for energy and utility sector professionals.
The Bigger Picture: New Jersey’s Role in the AI Economy
Governor Phil Murphy praised the project as a sign of New Jersey’s rising position in the global AI race. With Merck gradually vacating the campus and real estate developers reactivating the space, CoreWeave is emerging as a keystone tenant poised to attract more data-driven and life sciences companies to the area.
This is part of a broader national and global expansion strategy. CoreWeave has been aggressively scaling its datacenter footprint, with over 28 facilities expected by the end of 2024 and 10 more planned for 2025. Their existing cloud regions include New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Chicago, and several major markets across the U.S. and Europe.
What This Means for Recruiters
With timelines advancing quickly and mission-critical systems on the line, there’s massive potential for construction recruitment firms to place:
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Specialized data center talent
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Skilled trades professionals
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Project engineers and site supervisors
This is a high-stakes, high-velocity infrastructure play—ideal for firms looking to tap into the AI infrastructure boom.
To find or hire top-tier talent in data center construction, engineering, or infrastructure services, visit https://placedrecruitment.com.