Data Center Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Data Center Design Manager

Company: DayOne

Location: Madrid, Spain (with potential for London)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Data Center Design & Infrastructure Management

Date Posted: 2026-09-07

Experience Level: 8+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead end-to-end design development for mission-critical data center projects across the EMEA region, ensuring alignment with business objectives and operational requirements.

• Coordinate multidisciplinary design teams, including architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and civil consultants, to drive design excellence and innovation.

• Manage external consultants and technical partners, overseeing quality, performance, and adherence to project specifications and international standards.

• Mitigate design-related risks and technical challenges, ensuring seamless project execution from concept through construction support and commissioning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for DayOne's expansion into new international markets, demanding a strong understanding of complex, multidisciplinary design processes within the data center industry. The focus on EMEA suggests a need for awareness of diverse regulatory environments and operational standards.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the complete design lifecycle for data center development projects across EMEA, from initial feasibility studies to post-construction support.

• Coordinate and direct multidisciplinary design teams, encompassing architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, civil, and specialized consultants, to ensure cohesive and integrated design solutions.

• Ensure all design deliverables precisely align with overarching project objectives, stringent operational requirements, allocated budgets, project schedules, and specific customer expectations.

• Champion design governance, lead rigorous design reviews, facilitate value engineering sessions, and guide critical technical decision-making processes to optimize project outcomes.

• Establish, maintain, and disseminate robust design standards, best practices, and crucial lessons learned across a diverse portfolio of projects and multiple geographical regions.

• Foster close collaboration with internal development, construction, operations, procurement, and commercial teams to guarantee seamless integration and efficient project execution.

• Effectively manage external design consultants and technical partners, diligently monitoring their quality of work, performance metrics, and timely delivery against defined project requirements.

• Proactively identify and strategically mitigate design-related risks, address technical complexities, and manage project constraints, while developing and supporting effective resolution strategies.

• Ensure strict adherence to all applicable local regulations, international standards, permitting requirements, and established data center industry best practices.

• Oversee the meticulous preparation, thorough review, and formal approval of all design documentation, including technical specifications, detailed reports, comprehensive drawings, and essential project records.

• Provide critical technical support during the construction, commissioning, and project handover phases to ensure the original design intent is accurately and successfully implemented.

• Contribute to strategic innovation initiatives, sustainability goals, and ongoing continuous improvement programs that enhance the overall data center portfolio.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a need for strong leadership in driving design excellence and managing complex stakeholder relationships across a multinational context. The emphasis on standards, risk mitigation, and cross-functional collaboration is central to the role's success in delivering high-performance data centers.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, or a closely related technical discipline.

Experience: Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in design management, engineering management, or technical project delivery specifically within data centers, mission-critical facilities, or other large-scale infrastructure projects.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in leading and managing multidisciplinary design teams through the complete lifecycle of complex projects.

• Solid understanding of data center design principles, critical infrastructure systems (e.g., power, cooling, connectivity), and robust project delivery methodologies.

• Demonstrated ability to manage external consultants, administer design contracts, and cultivate strong stakeholder relationships.

• Familiarity with international design standards, building regulations, sustainability considerations, and data center industry best practices.

• Exceptional project management, organizational, and critical risk management skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and interpersonal abilities, particularly within multicultural and international project environments.

• Fluency in English is mandatory for effective communication and documentation. Preferred Skills:

• Direct experience supporting large-scale data center developments across multiple countries within the EMEA region.

• Master's degree in a relevant engineering, architecture, or business discipline.

• Possession of professional registration, chartership, or relevant industry-recognized certifications (e.g., PMP, LEED AP, BICSI RCDD).

• Proficiency with Building Information Modeling (BIM) environments and digital design coordination tools.

• Knowledge of sustainability frameworks (e.g., LEED, BREEAM) and advanced energy-efficient data center design strategies.

• Additional European language skills (e.g., Spanish, French, German) are considered a significant advantage for regional collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of technical expertise in data center design and strong leadership/management capabilities. Experience in EMEA is a key differentiator, suggesting a need for adaptability to various regional requirements and a broad understanding of international standards.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate successful project outcomes through well-documented case studies of data center or mission-critical facility designs, highlighting your leadership role.

• Provide evidence of process optimization and efficiency improvements achieved through design choices, value engineering, or streamlined design workflows.

• Showcase experience with system implementations, particularly in critical infrastructure components like power distribution units (PDUs), uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and cooling systems.

• Clearly articulate the return on investment (ROI) or business value derived from design decisions, such as cost savings, enhanced reliability, or improved sustainability metrics. Process Documentation:

• Examples of workflow design and optimization for complex design processes, including phased development and interdisciplinary coordination.

• Documentation showcasing methods for design implementation, automation where applicable, and integration of new technologies.

• Evidence of performance analysis and measurement of design effectiveness against key performance indicators (KPIs) and operational goals.

📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly requested, a strong portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of design management skills. Candidates should prepare to present detailed case studies that illustrate their ability to manage complex projects, achieve efficiency, and deliver tangible results within the data center context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on the experience level (8+ years) and the critical nature of the role within the growing data center industry, particularly in high-cost European cities like Madrid and London, the estimated salary range for a Data Center Design Manager in Spain is typically between €70,000 to €100,000 annually. For London, this could range from £75,000 to £110,000 annually. This estimate accounts for regional cost of living, industry benchmarks, and the specialized skill set required.

Benefits:

• Professional Growth Opportunities: Access to training, development programs, and opportunities for specialization within the data center field.

• International Work Environment: Exposure to diverse cultures and project types across the EMEA region, fostering a global perspective.

• Senior Stakeholder Exposure: Direct interaction with senior leadership and strategic decision-makers, offering significant visibility and influence.

• Impact on Critical Infrastructure: The chance to contribute directly to the design and deployment of essential digital infrastructure that powers global connectivity and services.

• Competitive Compensation Package: Likely includes a base salary, potential bonuses, and other standard employment benefits.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. While the role is primarily on-site, flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, international calls with different time zones, and critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on industry data for similar roles in Madrid and London, considering the company's growth phase and the specialized nature of data center design management. Benefits are inferred from the company's description and typical offerings for senior roles in international tech/infrastructure companies.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Data Centers, Information Technology Infrastructure, Real Estate Development. DayOne operates at the intersection of these sectors, focusing on high-performance, hyperscale data centers crucial for cloud computing, AI, and global digital services. The industry is characterized by rapid technological advancement, significant capital investment, and a growing demand driven by digital transformation.

Company Size: DayOne is described as one of the fastest-growing companies in the industry, with a robust presence across Asia and Europe. While exact numbers aren't provided, this suggests a dynamic, expanding organization likely in the mid-to-large enterprise category, with plans for significant scaling.

Founded: The company's founding date is not specified, but its rapid growth and international expansion imply it is an established entity with a proven track record, likely founded within the last 10-20 years to capitalize on the cloud and data boom.

Team Structure:

• The Data Center Design Manager will likely be part of a larger EMEA or Global Design & Engineering team, potentially reporting to a Director or VP of Design/Engineering.

• The role involves close coordination with Development, Construction, Operations, Procurement, and Commercial departments, indicating a highly matrixed and collaborative internal structure.

• Collaboration will extend to external consultants, contractors, and vendors, requiring strong interface management skills. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data to inform design decisions, optimize performance, and ensure reliability.

• Process Optimization: A focus on refining design workflows, implementing best practices, and driving efficiency across projects.

• Innovation & Sustainability: Commitment to exploring new technologies and sustainable design strategies to meet future demands and environmental goals.

Company Website: https://dayonedc.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: DayOne's positioning as a fast-growing, global leader in data centers suggests a culture of ambition, innovation, and execution. The emphasis on international expansion and critical infrastructure implies a professional, results-oriented environment with significant opportunities for impact.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the technical design and engineering function. It requires substantial experience and a proven ability to manage complex, high-stakes projects independently. The scope of responsibility extends beyond individual contributions to leading teams and influencing strategic design direction across a region.

Reporting Structure: The Data Center Design Manager will likely report to a senior leader within the Design or Engineering department, such as a Director of Design & Engineering or VP of Technical Operations for the EMEA region. They will manage and coordinate external design consultants and potentially internal junior engineers or designers.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on DayOne's ability to deliver state-of-the-art data centers efficiently and cost-effectively. High-quality design translates to operational reliability, reduced energy consumption, faster time-to-market for clients, and ultimately, revenue generation. Poor design can lead to costly delays, operational failures, and reputational damage.

Growth Opportunities:

• Regional Leadership: Potential to advance into a more senior regional or global design leadership role, overseeing larger teams and more complex portfolios.

• Specialization: Opportunity to develop deep expertise in specific areas of data center design, such as advanced cooling technologies, power systems, or sustainability initiatives.

• Cross-Functional Mobility: Possibility to transition into related roles within project management, construction management, or even operations management, leveraging a deep understanding of the entire data center lifecycle.

• Mentorship: As a senior member, opportunities to mentor junior engineers and designers, developing leadership and coaching skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as a key contributor to DayOne's ambitious growth plans, offering substantial career development opportunities for experienced professionals in the critical infrastructure sector. The emphasis on EMEA expansion suggests a strategic focus on building regional technical leadership.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The primary location is Madrid, Spain, with potential for work or travel to London. This suggests a modern corporate office environment designed for collaboration and professional work. Given the international scope, expect a dynamic office setting with diverse teams.

Office Location(s):

• Madrid, Spain: Corporate Office. This location will be the primary base for the role, offering access to the Spanish market and DayOne's European operations hub.

• London, United Kingdom: Mentioned as an alternative location, indicating potential project sites, client meetings, or a secondary office presence. Travel between these locations may be required.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely facilitate collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other internal departments. Expect access to necessary design software, project management tools, and communication platforms.

• The environment will be fast-paced, reflecting the rapid growth of the data center industry and DayOne's expansion.

• Opportunities for interaction with cross-functional teams are high, emphasizing the need for strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Work Schedule: The role is full-time, primarily on-site. While standard office hours are expected (around 40 hours/week), the demanding nature of large-scale project delivery may necessitate occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines, particularly during peak project phases or when coordinating across different time zones.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid location possibility (Madrid/London) and the on-site requirement point to a need for candidates comfortable with travel and working within established office structures that support intensive project collaboration. The fast-paced environment is typical for rapidly scaling companies in high-demand sectors.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A recruiter or HR representative will likely conduct an initial call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit. Be prepared to discuss your career trajectory and interest in data center design.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior design or engineering lead) focusing on technical expertise, project management experience, and leadership style. Expect questions about your approach to multidisciplinary coordination and risk management.

• Technical/Panel Interview: This may involve a panel of subject matter experts from different disciplines (e.g., MEP, structural, operations) or a more in-depth technical assessment. You may be asked to walk through specific project examples from your portfolio.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare and present a case study from their portfolio, focusing on a complex data center design challenge, your solution, and the achieved outcomes. This is a critical opportunity to showcase your process and impact.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior executive (e.g., VP of Engineering, CTO) to assess strategic alignment, cultural fit, and overall suitability for the role within DayOne's expansion plans.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 2-3 of your most impactful data center or mission-critical facility projects. Focus on those demonstrating leadership in design management, multidisciplinary coordination, and problem-solving.

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly outline the objectives, your role and responsibilities, the design process followed, key challenges encountered, your solutions, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, performance improvements, sustainability gains).

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Detail the specific design methodologies, standards, and tools you employed. Emphasize how you managed interdependencies between different engineering disciplines and stakeholders.

• Quantify Impact: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the value and ROI of your design contributions. This could include energy efficiency improvements, reduced construction costs, or enhanced operational reliability.

• Tailor to DayOne: Research DayOne's current projects, expansion plans, and stated values (innovation, sustainability). Frame your portfolio examples to align with their strategic priorities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing design conflicts, addressing scope changes, or mitigating unexpected technical issues during the design or construction phases.

• Prepare to articulate your approach to ensuring compliance with diverse international regulations and standards across the EMEA region.

• Practice explaining complex technical concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences, as you will interact with various stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess technical acumen, leadership capabilities, and strategic thinking. A well-prepared, data-driven portfolio presentation is essential for demonstrating practical expertise and aligning with DayOne's high standards and growth objectives.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency in platforms like Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD, Navisworks for architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical design coordination and documentation. Experience with BIM workflows is highly preferred.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and tracking progress.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for real-time communication, file sharing, and team coordination across dispersed teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: While not core to design management, understanding how to interpret data from performance simulations or operational feedback (e.g., using Excel, Power BI for basic analysis) can be beneficial for design optimization.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate clear, concise reports on design progress, risks, and compliance using standard office suites.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): While not directly used for design, understanding how client requirements are captured and managed within a CRM can aid in aligning design with customer expectations.

• Automation Tools: Awareness of potential automation in design processes (e.g., parametric design, scripting) is a plus, especially for efficiency gains.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different design and project management tools integrate or share data is valuable for seamless workflow management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack emphasizes tools crucial for managing complex, multidisciplinary design projects in a collaborative, often remote or hybrid, environment. Proficiency in BIM is increasingly standard for data center design, enabling better coordination and clash detection.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation: A drive to explore and implement cutting-edge design solutions and technologies to enhance data center performance and efficiency.

• Teamwork: Strong emphasis on collaboration, open communication, and mutual support among design teams, stakeholders, and external partners.

• Accountability: A commitment to taking ownership of design responsibilities, delivering on commitments, and driving projects to successful completion.

• Continuous Improvement: A culture that encourages learning from project experiences, refining processes, and seeking opportunities to enhance design standards and operational outcomes.

• Integrity & Excellence: Upholding high ethical standards and striving for excellence in all aspects of design and project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Expect close working relationships with development, construction, and operations teams, requiring clear communication and a shared understanding of project goals.

• Proactive Communication: A culture that values proactive engagement, early identification of issues, and transparent information sharing.

• Constructive Feedback: An environment where feedback is welcomed and utilized to improve designs, processes, and team performance.

• Global Mindset: Embracing diversity and adapting collaboration strategies to effectively work with international teams and partners.

📝 Enhancement Note: DayOne's stated values point towards a culture that is both ambitious and collaborative, focused on execution and continuous learning. The emphasis on innovation and teamwork is crucial for a company rapidly expanding in a complex technical field.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Needs: Balancing the requirements of internal teams (development, operations), clients, and regulatory bodies across different EMEA countries.

• Navigating Complex Regulations: Ensuring compliance with a wide array of local building codes, environmental regulations, and permitting requirements specific to each country in the EMEA region.

• Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in data center technology (e.g., AI infrastructure needs, advanced cooling, renewable energy integration) and translating them into practical, cost-effective designs.

• Global Project Coordination: Effectively managing design efforts across multiple time zones and cultural contexts, ensuring consistent quality and communication.

• Supply Chain & Vendor Management: Ensuring that selected equipment and vendor solutions meet technical, operational, and sustainability requirements within project constraints.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Design Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like hyperscale design, liquid cooling, renewable energy integration, and advanced power distribution.

• Leadership Development: Access to leadership training programs, mentorship opportunities, and the chance to lead larger, more complex design initiatives.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending key industry events (e.g., DCD, Data Center World) and pursuing relevant certifications (e.g., LEED AP, PMP, vendor-specific certifications).

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining broader insights into project development, construction, and operational aspects of data centers, fostering a holistic understanding of the business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges inherent in this role are significant, reflecting the complexity of global infrastructure development. However, these challenges also present substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development within a leading organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to leading a multidisciplinary design team for a mission-critical data center project. How do you ensure alignment and mitigate conflicts between different engineering disciplines (e.g., MEP vs. structural)?"

  • Preparation: Focus on your structured approach, communication strategies, conflict resolution techniques, and experience with design review processes. Use examples from your portfolio.

• "How do you balance the need for innovation and cutting-edge technology with cost-effectiveness and operational reliability in data center design?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your understanding of value engineering, risk assessment for new technologies, and how you evaluate ROI for design choices.

• "Walk us through a complex design challenge you faced on a data center project and how you successfully resolved it. What were the key learnings?"

  • Preparation: Prepare a detailed case study, emphasizing problem identification, your problem-solving methodology, the solution implemented, and quantifiable results. Company & Culture Questions:

• "Why are you interested in DayOne and specifically this Data Center Design Manager role within our EMEA expansion?"

  • Preparation: Research DayOne's mission, recent projects, and expansion strategy. Connect your skills and career aspirations to their goals.

• "How do you ensure adherence to international standards and local regulations across different countries within a region like EMEA?"

  • Preparation: Discuss your experience with international codes, your process for researching and incorporating local requirements, and examples of ensuring compliance.

• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced, high-growth environment. How do you prioritize and manage multiple projects simultaneously?"

  • Preparation: Highlight your organizational skills, project management techniques, and ability to adapt to changing priorities. Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Structure your portfolio presentation as a narrative for each project, detailing the challenge, your role, the solution, and the impact.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, concise visuals (drawings, diagrams, charts) to illustrate design concepts, workflows, and results. Avoid overly technical jargon unless necessary and explain it.

• Quantify Everything: Present data-driven evidence of success – cost savings, energy efficiency improvements, schedule adherence, risk reduction.

• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your leadership in coordinating teams, making critical decisions, and driving the design process to completion.

• Engage Your Audience: Be prepared for questions and engage in a dialogue about your projects and approach.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just technical expertise but also strong leadership, strategic thinking, and adaptability, especially concerning international project management and the dynamic nature of the data center industry.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Data Center Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided Workday link: https://dayone.wd102.myworkdayjobs.com/external/job/Corporate-Office-Madrid/Data-Center-Design-Manager_JR3185

• Tailor Your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight experience in data center design management, multidisciplinary team coordination, international project delivery, and specific technical skills relevant to critical infrastructure. Use keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best showcase your leadership in data center design. Focus on demonstrating process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results. Be ready to present this during the interview process.

• Research DayOne: Thoroughly understand DayOne's business, its position in the market, its growth strategy in EMEA, and its company values. This will be crucial for answering company-specific questions and demonstrating genuine interest.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare detailed answers to common interview questions related to technical skills, project management, leadership, and problem-solving, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and drawing from your portfolio.

⚠️ 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.