Civil Design Manager, Data Center Sites - Remote (U.S.)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Civil Design Manager, Data Center Sites - Remote (U.S.)

Company: AECOM

Location: Remote (U.S.) - Primary focus on Arlington, Virginia and Phoenix, Arizona

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Civil Engineering, Project Management, Data Center Infrastructure

Date Posted: 2026-06-23

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Fully Remote (U.S.)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the civil design and infrastructure planning for critical data center projects, encompassing both greenfield developments and expansion initiatives for colocation and hyperscale facilities.

• Manage multi-site project and program management plans, ensuring seamless execution from initial due diligence through detailed design and construction administration.

• Serve as a client-facing technical expert, fostering strong relationships and proactively communicating project status, risks, and solutions.

• Drive innovation and efficiency in civil and utility infrastructure design, including mass grading, stormwater management, and site utility prepositioning.

• Mentor and develop junior engineering staff, fostering a culture of accountability, strategic thinking, and continuous improvement within the design teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is specifically focused on the civil engineering and site infrastructure aspects of data center development, requiring a strong understanding of the unique demands of hyperscale and colocation environments. The remote nature necessitates excellent self-management and communication skills.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee and lead multi-disciplinary design teams responsible for data center site due diligence, campus planning, conceptual design, schematic design, detailed design, and construction document preparation.

• Manage the civil engineering design elements for projects, including but not limited to mass grading, site layout, stormwater management systems (detention, retention, conveyance), utility prepositioning and design (power, telecommunications, water/wastewater), and on-site/off-site access roadways.

• Develop and implement comprehensive multi-site project and program management plans, ensuring alignment with client objectives, budget constraints, and aggressive timelines.

• Proactively engage with clients and external stakeholders, including regulatory agencies, utility providers, and sub-consultants, to facilitate project progress and resolve complex issues.

• Lead the development of technical and financial proposals for new data center design projects and add/move/change initiatives, demonstrating AECOM's capabilities and value proposition.

• Identify, assess, and mitigate project risks, proactively developing creative and practical solutions to ensure project success and minimize potential disruptions.

• Foster a culture of accountability, innovation, and strategic thinking within the project teams, encouraging best practices and continuous improvement in design and project execution.

• Coach and mentor junior civil engineers and designers, supporting their professional development and ensuring the effective transfer of knowledge and skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "multi-site project and program management plans" suggests a need for experience in managing portfolios of projects, not just individual ones. The mention of "prototype development" and "test fitting" indicates a role in establishing and scaling design standards for data center campuses.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering is required.

• A Master's degree in Civil or Construction Engineering, or Business Administration, is preferred, indicating a potential for advanced strategic thinking and business acumen. Experience:

• A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant professional experience is required, with a strong preference for 10+ years, demonstrating significant depth in civil engineering and project management.

• Demonstrated experience managing design projects for colocation and hyperscale data centers is a critical requirement.

• Six (6) years of specific experience in industrial and data center design and/or project management is preferred, highlighting a specialized skill set.

• Experience with the full project lifecycle, from due diligence and planning through construction administration, is essential. Required Skills:

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) License: A mandatory requirement, signifying professional competency and adherence to industry standards.

• Civil Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of site development principles, including grading, drainage, utility design, and transportation infrastructure.

• Data Center Infrastructure Knowledge: Specific experience with the unique civil and utility requirements of hyperscale and colocation data centers.

• Project Management Skills: Proven ability to manage complex projects, timelines, budgets, and cross-functional teams.

• Client Relationship Management: Exceptional skills in building and maintaining strong, trust-based relationships with clients and stakeholders.

• Risk Management: Ability to proactively identify, assess, and mitigate project risks.

• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities for effective stakeholder engagement and technical documentation.

• Team Leadership: Proven ability to lead, mentor, and motivate design teams.

• Strategic Thinking: Capacity to develop and implement strategic plans for multi-site projects and programs. Preferred Skills:

• Lean Six Sigma Certification: Indicates a focus on process improvement and operational efficiency.

• Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Professional: Demonstrates specialized knowledge in data center reliability and design tiers.

• Active or recent leadership in data center and mission-critical trade organizations: Suggests industry engagement and thought leadership.

• Interpersonal Skills: Strong ability to collaborate effectively and navigate complex stakeholder dynamics.

• Ability to work in dynamic, time-sensitive situations with minimal oversight: Highlights adaptability and self-sufficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "10+" year AI-derived experience level aligns with the seniority of a "Manager" role overseeing complex, multi-site projects, especially in the specialized data center sector. The PE license is a non-negotiable requirement, underscoring the technical and ethical responsibilities of the role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Provide detailed case studies showcasing successful civil design and infrastructure management for hyperscale and colocation data centers. Highlight the scale, complexity, and specific challenges addressed.

• Process Optimization Examples: Include examples of implemented process improvements or workflow optimizations in civil design or project management that led to measurable efficiency gains or cost savings.

• System Implementation Standards: Demonstrate experience in applying design standards and best practices for site development, stormwater management, and utility infrastructure within a systematic framework.

• ROI Demonstration: For relevant projects, quantify the return on investment (ROI) or business impact achieved through effective civil design and project management, such as reduced construction costs, improved site functionality, or accelerated project delivery.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Showcase examples of designed or optimized workflows for civil design processes, from initial site assessment and conceptualization through to detailed design package development.

• Implementation & Automation: Illustrate experience with the implementation of civil designs and any use of automation tools or methodologies in the design or project management phases to enhance efficiency.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Present how you have measured the performance of civil designs and project execution, including metrics related to cost, schedule, quality, and adherence to environmental regulations.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the "Manager" title and the nature of data center development, a portfolio that demonstrates not only technical design capability but also robust project management, process control, and stakeholder engagement is crucial. The emphasis on "multi-site" projects implies a need to showcase scalability and standardization.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated salary range for this position is $130,000 - $180,000 USD per year. This range reflects the senior level of the role, the specialized expertise required for data center civil design management, and the significant responsibilities involved in leading multi-site projects. The exact compensation will be determined based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and location within the U.S. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life & Disability Protection: Life insurance, Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), and disability benefits.

• Time Off & Leave: Generous paid time off (PTO) and various leaves of absence options.

• Additional Benefits: Voluntary benefits, employee perks, and well-being resources.

• Work-Life Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) and flexible work options.

• Financial & Retirement: Business travel insurance, service recognition awards, a retirement savings plan, and an employee stock purchase plan.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are estimated at 40 hours per week, aligning with a full-time position. Given the remote nature and the demanding pace of data center projects, flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, client needs, and cross-time zone collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided is based on the "Compensation" data found in the raw listing. The benefits listed are directly extracted from the "ai_benefits" field and the "Additional Information" section of the job description, tailored to highlight aspects valuable to operations professionals.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering. AECOM is a global leader in designing, building, operating, and maintaining infrastructure across various sectors, including transportation, water, environment, energy, and buildings. Their deep involvement in the data center sector positions them at the forefront of digital infrastructure development.

Company Size: AECOM is a large enterprise, with over 50,000 professionals globally. This scale offers extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad professional network. For operations professionals, this means potential for specialized roles, structured career paths, and access to a wide array of advanced tools and technologies.

Founded: AECOM's history dates back to 1910, providing a legacy of expertise and stability. This long-standing presence in the industry signifies a mature organization with established processes and a deep understanding of infrastructure development challenges.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team Aspect 1: The role operates within the Buildings & Places (B&P) business line, specifically supporting the Data Center Solutions (DCS) group. This implies a specialized team focused on data center infrastructure, likely comprising civil engineers, structural engineers, MEP engineers, architects, and project managers.

• Operations Team Aspect 2: As a Manager, this role will likely report to a senior director or vice president within the DCS or B&P group, overseeing a team of civil engineers and designers. The reporting structure will reflect a clear hierarchy supporting project delivery.

• Operations Team Aspect 3: Collaboration will be extensive, involving direct interaction with clients, sub-consultants, utility providers, and internal AECOM teams across various disciplines (e.g., structural, MEP, environmental, geotechnical). The remote nature necessitates intentional efforts to foster strong cross-functional communication and integration.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: AECOM likely employs robust data analysis for site selection, feasibility studies, and design optimization, leveraging geographic information systems (GIS), environmental data, and geotechnical reports.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: The company emphasizes strategic planning and execution, particularly for complex, multi-site programs. This involves developing standardized design processes and project management methodologies to ensure consistency and efficiency.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: AECOM is investing in digital innovation, suggesting an adoption of BIM (Building Information Modeling), automated design tools, and project management software to enhance productivity and collaboration.

Company Website: https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Business Group: DCS", "Business Line: B&P - Buildings & Places", and "Operating Group: Americas" provide specific context for AECOM's organizational structure and the role's placement within it. This helps candidates understand where they fit and the specific expertise of the teams they'll be working with.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a mid-to-senior level management position. It requires a blend of deep technical expertise in civil engineering as applied to data centers and strong project/program management capabilities. The title "Manager" signifies responsibility for leading teams, managing client relationships, and contributing to business development through proposal writing. The "10+" years of experience and PE license confirm this seniority.

Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President within AECOM's Data Center Solutions (DCS) business line. They will, in turn, manage and mentor a team of civil engineers and designers, potentially across multiple project sites. This structure emphasizes leadership and team development.

Operations Impact: The Civil Design Manager's role is critical to the successful and efficient delivery of data center infrastructure. Their work directly impacts project timelines, costs, site functionality, environmental compliance, and the overall scalability and reliability of the data center facilities. Effective management of civil design ensures that critical infrastructure is robust, sustainable, and meets the demanding requirements of hyperscale and colocation clients, thereby contributing directly to AECOM's revenue and reputation in the data center market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Progression could lead to Senior Civil Design Manager, Program Manager for larger data center portfolios, or Director-level roles within the DCS group, overseeing broader regions or specialized design functions.

• Operations Skill Development: Opportunities exist to expand expertise into areas like advanced stormwater management, sustainable site design, complex utility coordination, and potentially even into broader program management or business development roles. Pursuing certifications like Uptime Institute's Accredited Tier Professional further enhances specialization.

• Operations Leadership Potential: The role provides a direct path to leadership by managing teams, client relationships, and contributing to strategic business decisions. Success in this role can pave the way for executive-level opportunities within AECOM's infrastructure divisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The growth opportunities are inferred based on typical career progression for senior engineering managers in large consulting firms, particularly within specialized sectors like data centers. The emphasis on client-facing responsibilities and business development contributions suggests a pathway toward broader leadership roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While the position is designated as "Remote (U.S.)", AECOM encourages office attendance if an AECOM office is proximal. This suggests a hybrid-friendly culture within the broader organization, where physical office spaces are available for collaboration, client meetings, and team interactions. The primary locations mentioned (Arlington, VA, and Phoenix, AZ) likely have AECOM offices.

Office Location(s):

• Primary locations listed: Arlington, Virginia, U.S. and Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.

• The role is open to candidates across the United States, indicating flexibility in location as long as the candidate can work remotely within the U.S. Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Even though remote, the role requires significant collaboration. Candidates should expect to utilize digital collaboration tools extensively for team meetings, design reviews, and client interactions. Periodic in-person attendance at AECOM offices or client sites may be required for key milestones or strategic sessions.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to AECOM's standard suite of design and project management software will be provided. This likely includes advanced CAD/BIM software, GIS tools, project management platforms, and communication suites.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with internal AECOM teams across various disciplines and with external clients and consultants will be a daily occurrence. Proactive communication and engagement are key to success in a remote setting.

Work Schedule:

• The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. However, the fast-paced nature of data center projects and global client demands may necessitate flexibility in working hours to meet deadlines and facilitate communication across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The description explicitly states that office attendance is encouraged if an AECOM office is proximal, indicating a hybrid-friendly approach within the company, even for a remote role. This suggests that while remote work is the primary arrangement, opportunities for in-person collaboration exist.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and qualifications against the minimum and preferred requirements, with a focus on your civil engineering background, data center experience, and PE license.

• Technical Interview(s): Expect in-depth discussions about your experience with data center civil design, stormwater management, utility coordination, grading, and project management methodologies. You may be asked to walk through specific projects from your portfolio.

• Managerial/Team Fit Interview: This stage will assess your leadership style, team management approach, client relationship skills, and ability to foster a positive and productive work environment. Questions will likely explore how you handle challenges, mentor junior staff, and drive accountability.

• Case Study/Presentation (Potential): You may be asked to prepare and present a case study on a relevant data center project, detailing your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the outcomes achieved. This is a key opportunity to showcase your portfolio.

• Final Interview: This may involve senior leadership within the DCS or B&P group to discuss strategic alignment, business development contributions, and overall fit within AECOM's culture.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate for Relevance: Select projects that specifically highlight your expertise in data center civil design, hyperscale/colocation environments, and complex site development challenges.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, the project's scope, the civil engineering solutions provided, and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, efficiency improvements, risk mitigation).

• Showcase Process: Detail the design and project management processes you followed. Demonstrate your understanding of workflow optimization, stakeholder management, and risk mitigation strategies.

• Highlight Leadership: If applicable, include examples of how you led or mentored teams, managed client expectations, and contributed to business development efforts.

• Prepare for Presentation: Be ready to present key aspects of your portfolio, focusing on storytelling that emphasizes problem-solving, technical acumen, and successful project delivery.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Center Civil Design Scenarios: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical challenges related to site constraints, complex stormwater regulations, utility coordination issues, or aggressive project schedules.

• Project Management Scenarios: Prepare responses for questions about managing difficult stakeholders, resolving design conflicts, controlling project scope, and ensuring quality control on remote projects.

• Leadership & Mentorship Scenarios: Think about how you would onboard a new team member, resolve team conflicts, delegate tasks effectively, and foster a culture of innovation and accountability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process and portfolio review tips are tailored to a senior-level civil engineering management role in a large consulting firm, emphasizing both technical depth and leadership capabilities. The focus on remote work necessitates preparation for discussing remote collaboration and management strategies.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency in industry-standard civil engineering design software such as AutoCAD Civil 3D, Bentley MicroStation, or similar platforms for site design, grading, and utility layout. Experience with BIM workflows for enhanced collaboration and visualization is highly valued.

• GIS Software: Familiarity with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools like Esri ArcGIS for site analysis, data management, and mapping, crucial for due diligence and campus planning.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar tools for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Expertise in using Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom, or other digital communication and collaboration tools for remote team interaction, document sharing, and virtual meetings.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to utilize software for analyzing site data, environmental reports, geotechnical surveys, and utility information to inform design decisions.

• Reporting Tools: Proficiency in generating technical reports, project status updates, and financial proposals using standard office suites (Microsoft Office Suite, Google Workspace).

• Dashboard Tools: Familiarity with creating and interpreting dashboards for project performance monitoring, key performance indicators (KPIs), and stakeholder reporting.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (for Business Development): While not a primary sales role, understanding how CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) are used for client management and proposal tracking can be beneficial for business development aspects.

• Automation Tools: Awareness of how automation can be applied in design processes (e.g., script-based design elements) or project management (e.g., automated reporting) to improve efficiency.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different software systems (CAD, GIS, PM tools) can be integrated to streamline data flow and improve project efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is constructed based on typical software and technology stacks used in large-scale civil engineering consulting firms, particularly those involved in complex infrastructure projects like data centers. The emphasis is on tools that support design, project management, and remote collaboration.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accountability: A strong emphasis on taking ownership of projects, designs, and team performance. This means being responsible for outcomes and proactively addressing challenges.

• Innovation: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to improve design quality, efficiency, and sustainability in data center infrastructure development.

• Strategic Thinking: A focus on understanding the broader business objectives and client needs, translating them into effective civil design strategies and project plans that align with long-term goals.

• Efficiency: A commitment to optimizing processes, resource utilization, and design execution to deliver projects on time and within budget, especially critical in the fast-paced data center industry.

• Client Focus: Dedication to building strong, trust-based relationships with clients by understanding their requirements, delivering exceptional service, and acting as a reliable partner.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A collaborative approach that emphasizes seamless integration with other engineering disciplines (structural, MEP, electrical), environmental teams, and project managers to ensure holistic project delivery.

• Process Review Culture: An environment where design processes, project plans, and performance metrics are regularly reviewed, with an open exchange of constructive feedback to drive continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across teams and projects, particularly vital for a remote workforce to maintain a cohesive and informed team.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values and their industry position suggest a culture that balances technical excellence with strong project execution and client service. The remote nature of this role necessitates a culture that supports effective virtual collaboration and knowledge dissemination.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Remote Teams & Projects: Effectively leading and coordinating civil design teams and complex multi-site projects from a remote setting requires strong communication, trust-building, and performance management strategies.

• Fast-Paced Data Center Demands: The data center industry is characterized by rapid growth and aggressive timelines, requiring the ability to adapt quickly, make timely decisions, and manage multiple competing priorities under pressure.

• Complex Site Constraints & Regulations: Navigating diverse site conditions, stringent environmental regulations, and evolving utility requirements for data center development presents ongoing technical and compliance challenges.

• Technological Evolution: Staying abreast of advancements in civil engineering technologies, BIM, sustainability practices, and data center infrastructure trends is crucial for maintaining design relevance and delivering cutting-edge solutions.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specialized areas such as advanced stormwater modeling, geotechnical engineering for large infrastructure, or renewable energy integration for data centers.

• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: Support for attending industry events (e.g., Data Center World, ENR FutureTech) and pursuing advanced certifications (e.g., Uptime Institute, LEED) to enhance professional knowledge and network.

• Operations Mentorship & Leadership Development: Access to mentorship programs and leadership training designed to hone management skills, strategic planning capabilities, and business development acumen, preparing individuals for senior leadership roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: These challenges and growth opportunities are derived from the inherent nature of managing large-scale infrastructure projects in a dynamic industry, amplified by the complexities of a remote work environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy & Methodology: "Describe your approach to developing a civil design strategy for a multi-site hyperscale data center campus, considering scalability, sustainability, and cost-efficiency." Prepare to discuss phased development, utility master planning, and risk-based design approaches.

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How would you manage communication and alignment between your remote civil design team, on-site project managers, and a demanding client who requires frequent updates on critical infrastructure development?" Focus on proactive communication plans, clear reporting structures, and effective conflict resolution.

• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Imagine a scenario where unexpected subsurface conditions significantly impact your grading plan for a data center site. How would you assess the situation, develop alternative solutions, and communicate the impact and revised plan to stakeholders efficiently?" Emphasize rapid assessment, creative engineering solutions, and transparent communication.

Company & Culture Questions:

• Company Operations Culture: "Based on your understanding of AECOM and the data center industry, how do you see your role contributing to our commitment to delivering a better world?" Research AECOM's mission and values, and connect your approach to civil design and project management with their overarching goals.

• Operations Team Dynamics: "How would you foster a sense of team cohesion and accountability among a remote civil engineering team, ensuring high performance and professional growth?" Discuss strategies for virtual team building, performance feedback, and collaborative work practices.

• Operations Impact Measurement: "Can you provide an example of how your civil design or project management decisions directly led to significant cost savings or accelerated project delivery for a data center client?" Prepare a concise case study demonstrating your ability to measure and articulate impact.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Process Improvement Case Study: Structure a case study to clearly outline the problem, your proposed solution (the civil design strategy or project management approach), the implementation steps, and the measurable results (e.g., time saved, cost reduced, risk averted).

• Metrics Presentation: Use clear visuals (charts, graphs) to present key metrics related to project performance, design efficiency, or cost-effectiveness. Be prepared to explain the significance of each metric and how it reflects success.

• Interactive Demonstration: If possible, use screen-sharing to briefly showcase key design elements or project plans from your portfolio, highlighting critical aspects of your work and decision-making process. Explain how your approach aligns with AECOM's standards and client objectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: These interview questions and preparation tips are designed to probe the candidate's technical expertise, management capabilities, and cultural fit for a senior, remote role within a large engineering consultancy focused on critical infrastructure.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Civil Design Manager position at AECOM:

• Submit Your Application: Utilize the provided link on SmartRecruiters to submit your resume and any requested supporting documents.

• Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Prepare a digital portfolio that highlights 2-3 key data center civil design or infrastructure management projects. Ensure each project clearly details your role, the challenges, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved. Focus on demonstrating expertise in grading, stormwater, utilities, and project management.

• Optimize Your Resume for Operations: Tailor your resume to emphasize your Civil Engineering background, Professional Engineer (P.E.) license, experience with hyperscale/colocation data centers, project management achievements, and leadership responsibilities. Use keywords from the job description, such as "Civil Design Manager," "Data Center Sites," "Stormwater Management," "Utility Design," and "Project Management."

• Prepare Your Operations Interview Narrative: Practice articulating your experience and approach to common interview questions, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss your remote work management style and how you foster collaboration.

• Research AECOM's Operations Context: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's mission, values, recent projects, and their specific focus within the data center market. Understand their approach to sustainability and innovation in infrastructure development.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with AECOM before making application decisions.