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.)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations - Infrastructure Design & Management

Date Posted: August 11, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Fully Remote (U.S. based)

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee the end-to-end civil design process for data center sites, encompassing due diligence, campus planning, and detailed design through construction administration.

• Manage multidisciplinary design teams and external consultants to ensure projects meet client requirements, quality standards, and are delivered on schedule.

• Develop and implement multi-site project and program management plans, focusing on efficiency, risk mitigation, and client satisfaction.

• Drive strategic thinking and foster a culture of accountability and innovation within the design and project management functions, directly impacting project delivery and client relationships.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within AECOM's Buildings & Places business line, specifically supporting the Data Centers (DCS) segment. While the title is "Civil Design Manager," the responsibilities clearly indicate a strong project and program management component, requiring oversight of civil and utility infrastructure design for complex, large-scale data center facilities. The remote nature and focus on global clients suggest a need for exceptional remote collaboration and communication skills, alongside technical civil engineering expertise.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead civil engineering design teams through all project phases: due diligence, campus planning, conceptual, schematic, detailed design, construction documents, and construction administration for colocation and hyperscale data centers.

• Manage the design of critical site infrastructure including prototype development, test fitting, mass grading, stormwater management, utility prepositioning and design (power, telecommunications, water/wastewater pumping, storage, conveyance), and on/off-site roadways.

• Develop and enforce comprehensive multi-site project and program management plans to ensure consistency and efficiency across various data center developments.

• Proactively manage and communicate project changes, risks, and issues to both internal AECOM teams and external clients, ensuring timely resolution and mitigation strategies.

• Develop and present technical and financial proposals for new data center design projects and add/move/change initiatives, contributing to business development efforts.

• Foster strong, trusting relationships with clients, sub-consultants, and other stakeholders through effective communication and proactive engagement.

• Coach and mentor junior civil engineers and design staff, supporting their professional growth and development within the organization.

• Champion a culture of accountability, innovation, and strategic thinking among project teams to drive continuous improvement in design and delivery processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a blend of technical civil engineering oversight and robust project management, particularly for large-scale, fast-paced data center projects. The mention of "prototype development" and "multi-site project and program management plans" suggests a need for standardization and scalability in design processes, a key aspect of revenue operations and GTM strategy implementation for repeatable client solutions.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering is a mandatory requirement.

• A Master's degree in Civil or Construction Engineering, or Business Administration is preferred, indicating a potential emphasis on advanced technical knowledge or business acumen. Experience:

• A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience in civil engineering is required, demonstrating a solid foundation in the discipline.

• A minimum of six (6) years of specific experience in industrial and data center design and/or project management is preferred, highlighting the specialization needed for this role.

• Demonstrated experience with colocation and hyperscale data center projects is a mandatory requirement, showcasing direct exposure to the industry's nuances. Required Skills:

• Professional Engineer (P.E.) License: Essential for technical oversight and client confidence in civil design.

• Civil Engineering Expertise: Deep understanding of civil site design principles, including grading, drainage, utilities, and site access.

• Data Center Infrastructure Design: Proven experience with the specific civil and utility requirements of data centers (e.g., power, telco, water/wastewater).

• Project Management Fundamentals: Ability to manage project timelines, budgets, and resources effectively, particularly in a multi-site context.

• Risk Management: Proactive identification, assessment, and mitigation of project risks. Preferred Skills:

• Lean Six Sigma Certification: Indicates a focus on process improvement, efficiency, and waste reduction, highly relevant for operations roles.

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

• Industry Leadership: Active or recent leadership in data center and mission-critical trade organizations suggests strong industry engagement and networking capabilities.

• Excellent Communication Skills: Both written and oral communication are critical for client interaction, team leadership, and proposal development.

• Dynamic Problem-Solving: Ability to perform effectively in fast-paced, time-sensitive situations with minimal oversight.

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

• Strong Interpersonal and Presentation Skills: Essential for client-facing roles and stakeholder management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required P.E. license is a critical qualifier. The preferred Lean Six Sigma certification and Uptime Institute accreditation strongly suggest that candidates with a background in operational efficiency, process optimization, and data center reliability will be highly valued. This aligns with the need for structured, repeatable design processes in large-scale data center development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Project Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 2-3 significant data center civil design projects. Each case study should detail the project scope, your specific role, design challenges, innovative solutions implemented, and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, improved efficiency).

• Process Documentation Examples: Include examples of project management plans, risk mitigation registers, or workflow diagrams used in previous data center projects, demonstrating your ability to standardize and manage complex multi-site initiatives.

• Client Communication Samples: Provide redacted examples of client reports, proposals, or presentations that highlight your ability to communicate technical information clearly and persuasively to diverse stakeholders.

• Design Deliverables: Showcase examples of key civil design deliverables such as grading plans, stormwater reports, or utility master plans, emphasizing attention to detail and adherence to industry standards.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing and optimizing civil design workflows for data center sites, focusing on efficiency, standardization, and scalability across multiple projects.

• Implementation & Automation: Highlight any experience in leveraging technology or specific methodologies to automate or streamline design processes, such as BIM implementation, design parameter standardization, or project management software integration.

• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Show evidence of how you have tracked and analyzed the performance of design processes, using metrics to identify areas for improvement and report on project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: For this role, a portfolio should clearly articulate not just technical design proficiency but also the candidate's ability to manage complex projects, implement standardized processes, and drive efficiency. Evidence of managing multiple sites simultaneously and mitigating risks within design phases will be crucial. Candidates should be prepared to discuss how they've used data and process improvements to achieve client objectives.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The provided salary range for this position is USD $130,000 to $180,000 per year. This range is competitive for a Civil Design Manager role with significant project management responsibilities in the data center industry, particularly for a remote position within the U.S. The specific salary offered will depend on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and location. Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans.

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

• Time Off & Leave: Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absence.

• Voluntary & Perk Programs: Access to Voluntary Benefits, Perks, and Well-being Resources.

• Employee Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Financial & Retirement: Retirement Savings Plan, Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), and Business Travel Insurance.

• Flexible Work Options: Encouraged flexible work arrangements in line with remote and hybrid policies.

Working Hours:

• The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. As a remote role, there is an expectation of flexibility to accommodate client needs and project deadlines, which may occasionally require work outside of standard business hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is provided and appears to be aligned with senior-level engineering and project management roles within the specialized data center sector. The extensive list of benefits indicates AECOM's commitment to employee well-being and financial security, which can be a significant draw for experienced professionals seeking stability and comprehensive support in a remote work environment.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, Consulting, and Energy sectors, with a strong focus on infrastructure development. Their Buildings & Places business line specifically targets urban development, commercial real estate, and critical facilities like data centers.

Company Size: AECOM is a large, global organization, indicated by its Fortune 500 status and revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. This implies a robust organizational structure, established processes, and significant resources.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated in the provided text, AECOM has a long history in the infrastructure consulting space, evolving through mergers and acquisitions to become a global leader. This longevity suggests stability and a deep well of experience.

Team Structure:

• Operations Team: This role is part of the Data Centers (DCS) segment within the Americas Operating Group, under the Buildings & Places (B&P) business line. The team likely comprises specialized civil engineers, project managers, and design professionals focused on data center infrastructure.

• Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Manager will likely report to a senior director or vice president within the DCS or B&P leadership, overseeing multiple projects and design teams.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Collaboration is essential with various internal AECOM disciplines (e.g., structural, mechanical, electrical, geotechnical engineers), external sub-consultants, clients (colocation and hyperscale providers), and potentially construction teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: AECOM emphasizes leveraging deep technical abilities and data to solve complex infrastructure challenges, suggesting a data-informed approach to design and project management.

• Client-Centric Approach: The company's mission to "deliver a better world" and partner with clients implies a strong focus on understanding and meeting client needs through innovative and sustainable solutions.

• Global Collaboration: With teams worldwide, AECOM fosters a collaborative environment that leverages global expertise for local project delivery.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's size and global presence mean that operations professionals can expect structured processes, opportunities for large-scale project experience, and access to a broad range of resources. However, it also suggests the need for clear communication and adaptability to navigate a large corporate environment. The focus on "delivering a better world" and solving complex challenges indicates a culture that values impact and innovation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Senior Management level, specifically a "Manager" within the Civil Design discipline, with a strong emphasis on project and program management for a specialized sector (Data Centers). It requires a blend of deep technical expertise (Civil Engineering, P.E. license) and leadership capabilities. The scope includes managing multiple projects, teams, and client relationships.

Reporting Structure: The Civil Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP within AECOM's Buildings & Places (B&P) or Data Center Solutions (DCS) divisions. They will manage a team of civil engineers and designers, and collaborate extensively with project managers, other discipline leads, and client representatives.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on AECOM's revenue and client satisfaction by ensuring the successful, efficient, and high-quality design and delivery of critical data center infrastructure projects. Effective management of design processes, risk mitigation, and client relationships directly contributes to project profitability, repeat business, and AECOM's reputation as a trusted infrastructure consulting firm.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in hyperscale data center civil design, utility infrastructure, and sustainable design practices.

• Program Management: Transition into managing larger, more complex data center programs or portfolios of projects for key clients.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to Director-level roles, managing larger teams, business units, or client accounts within the Buildings & Places or DCS divisions.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other infrastructure sectors or AECOM business lines through internal mobility or project involvement.

• Mentorship & Training: Participate in AECOM's award-winning training and development programs, focusing on leadership, strategic planning, and advanced technical skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Civil Design Manager at AECOM, especially in a high-growth sector like data centers, offers significant potential for advancement. The emphasis on managing multi-site programs and client relationships suggests that success in this role can lead to more strategic, client-facing, and P&L-responsible positions. The "remote" aspect also opens up opportunities for individuals who prefer to work from different locations within the U.S.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While this position is designated as Remote (U.S.), AECOM encourages office attendance if an AECOM office is proximal. This suggests a hybrid-friendly culture where remote employees can leverage office resources and collaboration spaces when feasible. The company has a global network of offices, providing potential hubs for occasional in-person meetings or team gatherings.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the primary listed location is Arlington, Virginia, with Phoenix, Arizona also mentioned. This implies that AECOM has significant operations or client bases in these regions, and potentially other major metropolitan areas across the U.S. where remote employees might be based.

Workspace Context:

• Remote Setup: Candidates will need a dedicated, productive home office environment conducive to focused work and virtual collaboration.

• Technology & Tools: Access to AECOM's digital infrastructure, project management software, and collaboration platforms is expected. This includes secure VPN access, video conferencing tools, and potentially cloud-based design environments.

• Team Interaction: Regular virtual team meetings, client calls, and cross-functional discussions will be a core part of the daily routine, requiring strong digital communication etiquette and proactive engagement.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is 40 hours. However, the nature of managing global clients and critical infrastructure projects may necessitate flexibility to attend meetings or address urgent issues outside of typical business hours. This flexibility is often a trade-off for the remote work arrangement.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote (U.S.)" designation, coupled with the encouragement for office attendance if nearby, suggests a flexible yet connected approach. Operations professionals in this role must be highly self-motivated and adept at managing their work independently while remaining integrated with their teams and clients through digital channels.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit, focusing on civil engineering background and data center experience.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager focusing on your project management experience, leadership style, technical approach to civil design for data centers, and understanding of risk mitigation. Be prepared to discuss your P.E. license and any relevant certifications.

• Technical/Team Interview: This may involve a panel interview with other senior engineers or project managers. You might be asked to walk through specific projects from your portfolio, detailing your contributions, design decisions, and problem-solving approaches. Expect questions on stormwater management, grading, and utility coordination.

• Case Study/Presentation: A common element for manager-level roles. You may be given a hypothetical data center site challenge and asked to outline your approach to due diligence, planning, and design, or present a detailed case study from your portfolio demonstrating your capabilities. Focus on process, efficiency, and client-centric solutions.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive or director, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership philosophy, and long-term career aspirations within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly state the scale (e.g., acreage, MW capacity), your specific responsibilities, and quantifiable outcomes (e.g., cost savings of X%, schedule adherence, reduction in design iterations).

• Process Focus: Highlight your role in developing or implementing design processes, project management plans, and risk mitigation strategies. Show how you ensure quality and efficiency across multiple sites.

• Client & Stakeholder Management: Demonstrate your ability to manage client expectations, communicate effectively, and resolve conflicts. Use examples of successful stakeholder engagement.

• Data Center Specificity: Ensure your portfolio clearly showcases your direct experience with colocation and hyperscale data centers, detailing the unique civil and utility challenges you've addressed.

• Conciseness & Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically. Be prepared to present key projects concisely, focusing on impact and relevance to AECOM's needs.

Challenge Preparation:

• Hypothetical Scenarios: Practice problem-solving for common data center site challenges (e.g., challenging topography, limited utility access, stringent stormwater regulations). Outline your phased approach to analysis and design.

• Process Improvement: Be ready to discuss how you would improve existing design processes, implement new technologies, or standardize workflows for multi-site data center development.

• Leadership & Team Management: Prepare to discuss your leadership style, how you motivate teams, handle underperformance, and foster a collaborative and accountable environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical civil engineering expertise but also strong project management skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to drive efficiency through process management. The portfolio is a critical tool for showcasing these capabilities, especially for a remote role where direct observation is limited.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or similar industry-standard CAD platforms for civil design, grading, and site layout.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or similar for planning, scheduling, and tracking multi-site projects.

• BIM Software: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflows and software like Autodesk Revit or Navisworks, particularly for integrated design and clash detection.

• GIS Software: Experience with Geographic Information Systems (GIS) tools (e.g., ArcGIS) for site analysis, due diligence, and mapping.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in Excel for data manipulation and analysis; experience with business intelligence tools like Power BI or Tableau for creating dashboards and reports on project performance.

• Cost Estimation Software: Familiarity with tools used for estimating civil works costs.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Experience with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce) for client relationship management and proposal tracking.

• Document Management Systems: Proficiency with platforms like SharePoint or AECOM's internal document management systems for organizing and sharing project documentation.

• Collaboration Platforms: Expertise in using Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Slack, or similar for seamless remote team communication and collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly listed, proficiency in advanced CAD/BIM software and project management tools is a given for this role. The emphasis on multi-site projects and client proposals suggests a need for tools that support efficient data management, communication, and reporting. Candidates demonstrating experience with tools that enable remote collaboration and process standardization will have an advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accountability & Ownership: Fostering a culture where individuals take responsibility for their work, project outcomes, and client satisfaction.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging creative problem-solving and the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design and project delivery.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Promoting a supportive environment where team members share knowledge, support each other, and work together to achieve common goals, especially in a remote setting.

• Client Focus: Prioritizing client needs and delivering exceptional value through high-quality, timely, and cost-effective solutions.

• Integrity & Trust: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all dealings with colleagues, clients, and stakeholders.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Emphasizing regular, transparent communication through various channels (email, video calls, project management platforms) to keep all stakeholders informed and aligned.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Encouraging close collaboration between civil design teams and other disciplines (electrical, mechanical, structural) to ensure integrated and optimized data center designs.

• Feedback & Learning: Cultivating an environment where constructive feedback is welcomed and used for continuous learning and process improvement, particularly important for remote teams to maintain alignment and growth.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values of "delivering a better world" and its emphasis on collaboration and innovation suggest a culture that values both technical excellence and positive impact. For operations professionals, this means being adaptable, communicative, and driven by a desire to improve processes and client outcomes. The remote nature of this role requires a proactive approach to collaboration and a strong commitment to team values.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Remote Teams: Effectively leading and motivating a geographically dispersed team requires strong communication, trust-building, and digital collaboration skills.

• Global Client Demands: Meeting the diverse and often demanding requirements of global hyperscale data center clients necessitates adaptability, cultural awareness, and robust project management.

• Rapidly Evolving Technology: The data center industry is constantly advancing; staying abreast of new technologies, design standards, and regulatory changes is crucial.

• Balancing Speed and Quality: Delivering projects rapidly to meet market demand while maintaining high standards of civil design and safety can be a significant challenge.

• Risk Mitigation in Complex Projects: Identifying and mitigating potential risks associated with large-scale infrastructure projects, including environmental, logistical, and technical challenges.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Design: Access to specialized training and resources on hyperscale data center infrastructure, including advanced utility systems, sustainable design, and resilient site planning.

• Project & Program Management: Opportunities to develop and refine skills in managing large, multi-site programs, potentially leading to certifications or advanced training in project management methodologies.

• Leadership Development: Participation in AECOM's leadership training programs, focusing on strategic decision-making, team building, and executive communication.

• Industry Engagement: Encouragement to participate in industry conferences, workshops, and trade organizations (e.g., Uptime Institute, industry-specific forums) to stay current and network.

• Mentorship: Access to mentorship from senior leaders within AECOM, providing guidance on career progression and strategic development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in high-growth, complex industries like data centers. The growth opportunities are substantial, with a clear path for both technical and managerial advancement within AECOM's robust development framework. A proactive approach to learning and skill development will be key to navigating these challenges and capitalizing on growth potential.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your experience managing civil design for hyperscale data center projects. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful delivery on schedule and within budget?" (Focus on process, risk management, and team coordination.)

• "How would you approach developing a standardized civil design prototype for a multi-site data center rollout? What metrics would you use to measure its success?" (Highlight your understanding of scalability, efficiency, and ROI.)

• "Walk me through a situation where you had to manage significant design changes or project risks. What was your strategy, and what was the outcome?" (Emphasize proactive problem-solving and communication.)

• "How do you foster a culture of accountability and innovation within a remote design team?" (Discuss your leadership style, communication methods, and team-building strategies.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the data center sector, and why are you interested in this specific role?" (Research AECOM's projects, values, and recent news.)

• "How do you align with AECOM's mission to 'deliver a better world' and its values of integrity, collaboration, and innovation?" (Connect your personal values and professional approach to AECOM's ethos.)

• "Describe your experience working in a remote or hybrid environment. What strategies do you employ to maintain strong working relationships and productivity?" (Showcase your self-discipline and collaboration skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly articulate the problem, your solution (emphasizing process and methodology), and the results (quantifiable impact).

• Highlight Process & Efficiency: Focus on how you managed workflows, mitigated risks, and ensured quality and efficiency, especially for multi-site projects.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics to demonstrate the value you brought to previous projects (e.g., cost savings, schedule improvements, risk reduction percentages).

• Client Focus: Frame your achievements in terms of client satisfaction and how you built strong stakeholder relationships.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your design decisions, technical approaches, and project management strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a strong understanding of both civil engineering principles for data centers and effective project/program management. Candidates should be ready to articulate their value proposition in terms of driving efficiency, mitigating risk, and ensuring client success within a remote working context.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experience with data center civil design, project management, and remote team leadership. Emphasize your P.E. license and any relevant certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma).

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your accomplishments using action verbs and quantifiable results, particularly focusing on managing multi-site projects, site planning, grading, stormwater, and utility infrastructure for data centers. Integrate keywords from the job description naturally.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio that showcases 2-3 key data center civil design projects. Prepare to discuss your role, the processes you followed, challenges overcome, and the tangible outcomes achieved, with a strong emphasis on efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's data center projects, their approach to sustainability, and their company values. Understand their position in the market and how your skills align with their strategic goals, particularly in driving efficient and high-quality infrastructure development.

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