Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager - Data Centers

Company: AECOM

Location: Bogota, Colombia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Design & Project Management

Date Posted: 2026-08-04T15:56:15.517

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• This role is a critical leadership position focused on the end-to-end design management of data center projects, spanning colocation and hyper-scale facilities.

• It involves extensive oversight of design processes, from initial site due diligence and campus planning through detailed design development and construction administration.

• The Design Manager will be responsible for leading and growing a specialized team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.

• This position requires a strong blend of technical expertise in data center design disciplines and robust project management capabilities to ensure successful project delivery within budget and schedule constraints.

📝 Enhancement Note: The raw job description provided is for a "Design Manager" role within AECOM, specifically focusing on "Data Centers." While the prompt requests enhancement for Revenue Operations, Sales Operations, or GTM roles, this specific job is in infrastructure design and project management. Therefore, the enhancement will focus on translating the provided information into a structured job description format relevant to operations professionals seeking roles in managing complex projects and teams, emphasizing transferable skills like process management, stakeholder engagement, and resource allocation, rather than direct revenue operations functions. The "Category" has been adjusted to "Infrastructure Design & Project Management" to accurately reflect the role. The "Experience Level" has been inferred as "10+ Years" based on the requirement of 8 years plus a Bachelor's degree and the preferred Master's and PMP certifications, indicating a senior-level position.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage all phases of data center core and shell design projects, including civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), security, and fire protection for both greenfield developments and existing facility modifications (add/move/change projects).

• Oversee the development and execution of multi-site project and program management plans, ensuring consistency and adherence to AECOM and client standards.

• Implement and enforce rigorous peer review and quality assurance processes throughout the design lifecycle to guarantee repeatable quality and compliance with client requirements.

• Manage and maintain the project's Basis of Design (BOD) and oversee the localization process for design elements to meet regional specificities.

• Establish and manage a systematic process for identifying, tracking, and resolving scope changes, design errors, and inconsistencies to mitigate risks and maintain project integrity.

• Proactively manage and communicate project changes and updates to all internal and external stakeholders, including clients and design teams, ensuring alignment and transparency.

• Develop, present, and negotiate technical and financial proposals for new data center design projects and existing facility upgrades, contributing to business development efforts.

• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment by leading, mentoring, and developing AECOM's data center design team, promoting collective ownership and professional growth.

• Build and nurture strong, trusting relationships with client stakeholders, understanding their needs and ensuring design solutions meet their strategic objectives.

• Conduct site due diligence assessments for potential data center locations, providing critical input for campus planning and feasibility studies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been expanded to detail the scope of work for a Design Manager in the data center sector, emphasizing project lifecycle management, team leadership, client relations, and technical oversight. These responsibilities are framed using operations-relevant language such as "managing," "overseeing," "implementing processes," "tracking and resolving," and "stakeholder communication," which are transferable to operations roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

• Master’s degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering is preferred. Experience:

• Minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience in design and/or project management within the data center or mission-critical infrastructure sector.

• Proven experience in managing data center core and shell design projects from conception through construction administration.

• Demonstrated experience in site due diligence, campus planning, and detailed design development. Required Skills:

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities to guide and develop design professionals.

• Expertise in data center design principles across civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, and fire protection systems.

• Proficient in project management methodologies, including budget control, schedule adherence, and scope management.

• Excellent communication skills in both Spanish and English (written and oral) for effective stakeholder engagement.

• Active or recent leadership role in a data center or mission-critical trade organization, demonstrating industry engagement.

• Ability to work effectively in dynamic, time-sensitive situations with minimal oversight. Preferred Skills:

• Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

• Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Professional certification.

• Extensive experience in colocation and/or hyper-scale data center design management and engineering.

• Familiarity with international building codes and standards relevant to data center construction.

📝 Enhancement Note: Qualifications have been structured to clearly delineate minimum and preferred criteria. The description emphasizes the blend of technical design knowledge and project management acumen required. The inclusion of specific certifications like PMP and Uptime Institute accreditations highlights industry standards and advanced qualifications sought for senior roles in this specialized field.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Evidence of successful end-to-end project management for complex data center or mission-critical infrastructure projects.

• Case studies showcasing proficiency in site due diligence, campus planning, and detailed design development, highlighting problem-solving approaches.

• Documentation demonstrating experience in managing design budgets and schedules, with quantifiable results on cost savings or efficiency gains.

• Examples of technical and financial proposals developed for data center design projects, illustrating client engagement and business development capabilities.

• Demonstrations of quality assurance processes implemented and their impact on design accuracy and project outcomes. Process Documentation:

• Workflow diagrams and process descriptions for managing design phases, from conceptualization to construction documents.

• Methodologies for tracking and resolving scope changes, design errors, and inconsistencies, including risk mitigation strategies.

• Examples of standardized templates and checklists used for peer reviews and quality control in design projects.

• Documentation of processes for onboarding and managing external design resources and consultants.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the type of evidence and documentation that would be beneficial for a candidate to present, focusing on tangible proof of project management and design oversight capabilities. The emphasis is on demonstrating a structured, process-driven approach to managing complex infrastructure projects, which is a key aspect of operations roles.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Estimated annual salary range of COP 120,000,000 - COP 180,000,000 (approximately USD $30,000 - $45,000, subject to exchange rate fluctuations and specific experience). This estimate is based on senior-level project management roles in engineering and construction consulting firms in Bogota, Colombia, considering the specialized nature of data center design and the required experience level. Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance.

• Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Disability Benefits.

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and Leaves of Absences.

• Voluntary Benefits options.

• Flexible Work Options (while the role is on-site, AECOM generally offers flexibility where possible).

• Comprehensive Well-being Resources and Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

• Business Travel Insurance.

• Service Recognition Awards.

• Retirement Savings Plan.

• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP). Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week. Flexibility may be offered, but the role requires on-site presence for project execution and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: A salary range has been estimated for Bogota, Colombia, for a senior-level Design Manager role in the infrastructure sector. This is based on general market data for such positions in the region and the provided experience level. Benefits have been detailed from the provided "Additional Information" section and are presented in a way that highlights their value to a professional.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of professional services for transportation, buildings, water, environment, and energy sectors.

Company Size: AECOM is a large, global enterprise, listed as a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees worldwide. This scale offers significant opportunities for professional development and exposure to diverse projects.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, tracing its roots back to 1910, indicating stability and extensive experience in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will lead a specialized team within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities group, focusing on Data Centers. This team likely comprises architects, engineers (mechanical, electrical, civil, structural), and other technical specialists.

• Reporting structure will likely involve a senior director or vice president within the Enterprise Capabilities or Data Center division, with direct management responsibility for the design team members.

• Cross-functional collaboration is expected with project managers, construction teams, client representatives, and potentially business development and finance departments. Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to project delivery, utilizing advanced digital tools and analytics for design optimization, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Workflow planning and optimization are core to AECOM's operations, ensuring efficient project execution and adherence to global standards.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly integrated into project lifecycles, leveraging technology to enhance design quality, reduce lead times, and improve cost-effectiveness.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Company context has been synthesized from the provided description, highlighting AECOM's global presence, industry leadership, and commitment to innovation. The team structure and operational methodologies are inferred based on the role's nature and typical practices within large engineering consulting firms.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior-level management position, requiring significant technical expertise and proven leadership experience. It sits at the intersection of technical design and project execution, with a focus on managing complex, multi-disciplinary projects and leading specialized teams.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to a higher-level executive within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities or Data Center division. They will have direct reports within the design team, managing their performance and professional development.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is crucial for AECOM's success in the data center market. Their effective management of design processes directly impacts project profitability, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable infrastructure solutions. They influence project scope, budget, and schedule from the earliest stages.

Growth Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunity to deepen expertise in data center design and project management, potentially leading larger and more complex global projects.

• Leadership Development: Potential to advance into executive leadership roles within AECOM's Data Center division or other business lines, managing larger teams and strategic initiatives.

• Specialization & Certification: Encouragement to pursue advanced certifications (e.g., PMP, Uptime Institute levels) and specialize in emerging data center technologies.

• Cross-Functional Exposure: Opportunities to gain experience in business development, client relationship management, and strategic planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section analyzes the career trajectory and impact of the Design Manager role, framing it within an operations context by highlighting leadership, process management, and strategic influence. Growth opportunities are tailored to a senior technical management path.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in AECOM's Bogota office, described as an "On-Site" work location model. This suggests a traditional office environment with dedicated workspaces.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Bogota, Colombia, specifically at Carrera 11 # [partial address provided in raw data]. AECOM has a global presence, but this specific role is tied to the Bogota operations.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The office is expected to foster collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other AECOM professionals.

• Tools and Technology: Access to AECOM's standard suite of design, project management, and communication software and technology will be available.

• Team Interaction: Daily interaction with direct reports and colleagues from various disciplines is anticipated, facilitating knowledge sharing and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: The role requires a standard 40-hour work week, with the expectation of being present on-site. While AECOM may offer flexible work arrangements where feasible, the core responsibilities necessitate consistent on-site engagement for design development, team coordination, and client interactions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is described based on the "On-Site" designation and general expectations for a corporate office in a global engineering firm. The focus is on the collaborative and resource-rich setting conducive to managing complex design projects.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and qualifications to assess alignment with the minimum requirements. Emphasis will be placed on your experience in data center design and project management.

• Technical Interview: A discussion with hiring managers and potentially senior engineers or architects from the data center team. Expect questions on your technical expertise, project management methodologies, and problem-solving approaches.

• Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present a selection of their work, highlighting key data center projects, design challenges overcome, and project outcomes. This is where you demonstrate your process and impact.

• Behavioral and Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, collaboration skills, and how you align with AECOM's values and culture.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and long-term career potential within AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 2-3 high-impact data center projects that best showcase your design management capabilities, from concept to completion.

• Focus on Process and Impact: Clearly articulate the challenges, your role, the processes you implemented (e.g., design review, change management, team coordination), and the quantifiable results (e.g., budget adherence, schedule savings, quality improvements, client satisfaction).

• Highlight Leadership: Demonstrate your ability to lead diverse technical teams, manage stakeholders, and foster a collaborative environment.

• Quantify Achievements: Use metrics and data wherever possible to illustrate the success of your projects and your contributions.

• Tailor to AECOM: Research AECOM's recent data center projects and values to tailor your presentation and highlight relevant experience.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss hypothetical scenarios related to managing challenging design projects, handling scope creep, resolving conflicts within a design team, or ensuring compliance with complex regulations.

• Practice articulating your thought process for problem-solving, emphasizing structured analysis and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process and portfolio review advice are tailored to a senior design management role, emphasizing the need for candidates to demonstrate not just technical skills but also leadership, process management, and the ability to deliver tangible results. This advice is framed to help candidates showcase operational excellence in their application.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, or similar BIM (Building Information Modeling) software for architectural and engineering design.

• Project Management Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Jira, or similar for project scheduling, tracking, and resource allocation.

• Collaboration Suites: Familiarity with Microsoft 365 (Teams, SharePoint, Outlook) or Google Workspace for communication, document sharing, and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from project management software, financial reports, and performance metrics.

• Reporting Tools: Experience generating project status reports, financial summaries, and performance dashboards for stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not a direct sales role, understanding CRM principles for client management and relationship tracking may be beneficial.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with tools or methodologies that can automate design review processes, document management, or reporting tasks.

• Integration Tools: Understanding how different design and project management software integrate to streamline workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The tools and technology stack are inferred based on typical requirements for a Design Manager in the infrastructure and data center sectors, focusing on design software, project management platforms, and collaborative tools essential for complex project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity and Trust: Upholding ethical standards in all project dealings and fostering a trusting environment within the team and with clients.

• Collaboration and Inclusion: Promoting a team-oriented approach where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

• Excellence and Innovation: Striving for the highest quality in design and project execution, while embracing innovative solutions to meet client challenges.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through responsive service and impactful project delivery.

• Sustainability: Commitment to designing and delivering infrastructure solutions that are environmentally responsible and contribute to a better world.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with project managers, construction teams, and other disciplines to ensure seamless project delivery.

• Open Communication: Encouraging transparent and frequent communication channels for sharing updates, feedback, and addressing concerns promptly.

• Process Improvement Culture: Fostering an environment where team members are encouraged to identify inefficiencies and propose improvements to design and project management processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's company description highlights "Work with Us. Change the World." and "We're one global team." This section infers core values and collaboration styles that align with a large, global, and project-driven organization like AECOM, focusing on aspects relevant to managing teams and complex projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the diverse needs and expectations of multiple clients, internal teams, and regulatory bodies on large-scale data center projects.

• Navigating Evolving Data Center Technologies: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in data center design, cooling technologies, power efficiency, and automation.

• Ensuring Global Design Consistency with Local Adaptation: Implementing standardized design processes and quality controls while adapting to specific local regulations, standards, and site conditions in different regions.

• Leading Geographically Dispersed Teams: Effectively managing and motivating design resources that may be located in different offices or even countries, requiring strong remote leadership skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Specialization: Opportunities to deepen expertise in niche areas such as power distribution, cooling systems, or advanced BIM integration for data centers.

• Project Leadership Programs: AECOM likely offers formal training and development programs for project and program management, leadership, and strategic planning.

• Industry Engagement: Participation in industry conferences, workshops, and professional organizations to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship: Access to senior leaders and experienced professionals within AECOM for guidance and career development advice.

📝 Enhancement Note: Challenges are identified based on the complexities inherent in managing large-scale, technologically advanced infrastructure projects like data centers. Growth opportunities are framed around continuous learning, specialization, and leadership development within a global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex data center design project that faced significant scope changes. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, communication, and problem-solving).

• "How do you ensure quality and consistency across multiple design disciplines and potentially multiple project sites?" (Highlight your QA/QC processes and team coordination strategies).

• "Walk us through your approach to developing a technical and financial proposal for a new data center project." (Demonstrate your business acumen and client engagement skills).

• "How do you motivate and manage a team of engineers and architects, especially during high-pressure project phases?" (Showcase your leadership and team-building capabilities). Company & Culture Questions:

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

• "How do you foster collaboration and a positive team culture within a design team?" (Align your approach with AECOM's stated values).

• "AECOM is committed to 'delivering a better world.' How does your work on data centers contribute to this mission?" (Connect your role to broader sustainability and impact goals). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: Begin with an overview of AECOM's business and the role, then present 2-3 key projects. For each project, detail the scope, your specific role, the challenges, the solutions/processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results.

• Visuals: Use clear, concise slides with diagrams, timelines, and key metrics. Avoid dense text.

• Storytelling: Frame your experience as a narrative, highlighting your problem-solving skills and leadership impact.

• Q&A Readiness: Anticipate questions about your technical decisions, budget management, stakeholder communication, and how you handled setbacks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation advice focuses on anticipating role-specific questions, understanding AECOM's context, and strategizing for portfolio presentation to effectively showcase operational management and leadership skills.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your comprehensive resume and cover letter through the AECOM careers portal.

• Portfolio Preparation: Assemble a portfolio showcasing 2-3 key data center design management projects. Focus on demonstrating your process for site due diligence, campus planning, detailed design, and construction administration, highlighting your leadership in budget, schedule, and quality control.

• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your experience with colocation and hyper-scale data centers, your project management achievements, and your proficiency in both Spanish and English. Use keywords from the job description.

• Interview Practice: Prepare to discuss your project management methodologies, leadership style, and technical expertise. Practice articulating your project examples using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's global infrastructure projects, its commitment to sustainability, and its culture. Understand their approach to data center design and delivery.

⚠️ 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.