Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: AirTrunk

Location: Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering & Design Operations

Date Posted: 2026-09-16

Experience Level: 7+ Years (Mid to Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and engineering of hyperscale data center solutions for leading cloud and enterprise customers, driving innovation in critical infrastructure.

• Manage multi-disciplinary design teams through the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept and feasibility through to detailed design and delivery.

• Drive the integration of cutting-edge sustainable technologies, including liquid cooling, battery storage, and AI solutions, into data center designs.

• Develop and present comprehensive Basis-of-Design (BOD) documents and technical proposals to internal stakeholders and external clients.

• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams including construction, procurement, and operations to ensure seamless project execution and adherence to engineering standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the Engineering & Design Operations category, focusing on the strategic and technical aspects of data center infrastructure development. The emphasis on hyperscale, sustainability, and advanced technologies indicates a forward-thinking and technically demanding position within a rapidly growing industry.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and mentor project design teams, ensuring the successful delivery of multi-megawatt hyperscale data center solutions from inception to completion.

• Conduct and present comprehensive design reviews, feasibility studies, and master planning exercises for new data center developments.

• Produce clear and detailed Basis-of-Design (BOD) documents to guide the project definition and design phases.

• Develop and issue consultant briefs for various design stages (feasibility, concept, scheme, detailed design), maintaining design philosophy consistency.

• Oversee the technical aspects of direct procurement for specialized equipment, ensuring seamless integration with the overall design and construction plan.

• Interface directly with top-tier cloud and enterprise customers, delivering persuasive presentations on all facets of data center design and engineering.

• Develop high-level master planning, space planning, and engineering solutions for potential new developments, including site selection support.

• Understand and communicate the commercial implications of engineering decisions, contributing to cost models for customer proposals.

• Provide technical assistance during the site selection process, engaging with service providers and local authorities as needed.

• Drive continuous engineering improvements and champion the adoption of sustainable technologies, such as liquid cooling, battery storage, and AI solutions, across projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership, project management, client-facing communication, and strategic input into sustainable technology integration. The emphasis on "multi-MW hyperscale solutions" and "mission-critical environments" points to large-scale, high-stakes projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience in product design or commissioning. Experience:

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) design.

• At least 3 years of experience specifically within data center design or other mission-critical environments.

• Demonstrated experience with the full project life cycle within the Japanese construction industry is mandatory. Required Skills:

• MEP Design Expertise: Deep understanding of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems relevant to large-scale, high-density facilities.

• Data Center Design Principles: Proven experience in designing hyperscale or mission-critical data center infrastructure.

• Project Leadership: Ability to lead and manage multi-disciplinary design teams effectively.

• Client Presentation Skills: Excellent communication and presentation capabilities, with the ability to articulate complex technical designs to diverse audiences, including customers, peers, and management.

• Japanese Construction Industry Acumen: In-depth knowledge of project lifecycles, regulations, and best practices within the Japanese construction sector.

• Bilingual Proficiency: Fluent in both English and Japanese, including reading, writing, and presentation skills.

• Problem-Solving & Decision Making: Ability to make sound, accountable decisions in a fast-paced and evolving environment.

• Adaptability & Flexibility: Must be adaptable to changing directions and embrace continuous evolution in project requirements and technologies.

Preferred Skills:

• Sustainable Technology Integration: Experience with or strong understanding of liquid cooling, battery storage, and AI solutions for data centers.

• Master Planning & Space Planning: Expertise in developing strategic site layouts and efficient space utilization plans.

• Basis-of-Design (BOD) Development: Proficiency in creating comprehensive BOD documents.

• Commercial Acumen: Understanding of the financial implications of engineering decisions and experience with cost modeling.

• Site Selection Support: Experience contributing to technical due diligence for new site acquisitions.

• Commissioning & Handover: Familiarity with the commissioning process for critical facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for Japanese construction industry experience is critical and suggests a need for understanding local codes, permitting, and contractor relationships. The bilingual requirement is also a key differentiator for this role in Tokyo.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 2-3 complex MEP design projects, ideally within data centers or similar mission-critical facilities, detailing your specific role, challenges, and solutions implemented.

• Project Lifecycle Demonstration: Evidence of involvement across different project phases, from feasibility and concept design through to detailed design, and ideally, some exposure to construction oversight or commissioning.

• Technical Documentation Samples: Examples of Basis-of-Design (BOD) documents, consultant briefs, or technical reports you have authored or significantly contributed to.

• Client Presentation Materials: Samples of technical presentations delivered to clients or stakeholders, demonstrating clarity, impact, and the ability to convey complex information effectively.

• Sustainability Integration Examples: If applicable, highlight projects where you incorporated innovative sustainable technologies or practices.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in establishing and refining design workflows to ensure efficiency, quality, and adherence to project timelines.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Illustrate processes used to effectively collaborate with internal teams (e.g., construction, operations, procurement) and external consultants/vendors.

• Risk Management & Quality Assurance: Detail processes implemented to identify, assess, and mitigate design risks, and ensure the quality and compliance of design outputs.

• Change Management: Outline methodologies for managing design changes throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring controlled implementation and impact assessment.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio should emphasize leadership in design processes, project outcomes, and the ability to translate technical requirements into tangible, client-ready designs. Demonstrating a structured approach to design management and client communication is paramount.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Design Managers with 7+ years of experience in high-cost-of-living cities like Tokyo, particularly within specialized sectors like data centers, a competitive annual salary range would typically fall between JPY 10,000,000 to JPY 15,000,000. This range can vary based on specific qualifications, interview performance, and the precise scope of responsibilities. Benefits:

• Career Growth Opportunities: Significant potential for advancement within a rapidly expanding global company, including opportunities to lead larger projects and develop expertise in emerging technologies.

• Flexible Working Environment: AirTrunk promotes a flexible work environment, allowing for adaptability in how and where work is accomplished, within the on-site context.

• Innovation Focus: Exposure to and involvement in cutting-edge technologies like liquid cooling, battery storage, and AI solutions.

• Global Exposure: Opportunity to work on projects across the APME region and collaborate with international teams.

• Competitive Health and Wellness Programs: Comprehensive benefits package designed to support employee well-being.

• Performance-Based Bonuses: Potential for bonuses tied to individual and company performance.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are expected, typically around 40 hours per week. However, the role may require flexibility to meet project deadlines and client needs, including potential for extended hours during critical project phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on research of comparable roles in Tokyo, Japan, considering the specialization in data center design and the required experience level. Benefits are inferred from the company culture description and typical offerings for senior technical roles in multinational corporations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Data Centers / Technology Infrastructure. AirTrunk operates at the intersection of technology and real estate, providing the critical physical infrastructure for the cloud computing era. They are a key enabler of digital transformation across the Asia Pacific and Middle East regions.

Company Size: AirTrunk is a rapidly growing, large-scale company, indicated by its significant expansion across the APME region and backing from major investors like Blackstone. This implies a dynamic, well-resourced, and ambitious corporate environment.

Founded: Founded in 2017, AirTrunk is a relatively young but highly successful company that has quickly established itself as a leader in the hyperscale data center market. This indicates a culture of rapid innovation, agility, and a drive for market dominance.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager reports to the Director, Design, based in Tokyo, indicating a structured reporting line within a dedicated technology and engineering department.

• The role involves leading "multi-disciplinary design teams," suggesting collaboration with engineers across various specialties (MEP, structural, civil, etc.) and potentially external consultants.

• Close interaction with Sales, Construction, and Operations teams is implied, highlighting a cross-functional operational model. Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on engineering solutions that meet customer needs and are supported by technical analysis and cost modeling.

• Agile Project Delivery: The "fast pace" and "continuous change" mentioned suggest an agile approach to project execution, requiring adaptability and quick decision-making.

• Sustainability Focus: A core methodology involves integrating sustainable practices and technologies, such as carbon-free solutions, liquid cooling, and AI, into design and operations.

• Customer-Centric Approach: Designs are driven by the requirements of "world's most transformational companies," emphasizing a deep understanding of client needs.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AirTrunk's rapid growth and focus on innovation suggest a culture that values ambitious individuals, rapid problem-solving, and a forward-thinking approach to technology and sustainability. The "A-Team" moniker implies a high-performance, collaborative environment.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a Senior Manager or Lead within the Design function. It requires significant technical expertise (7+ years in MEP/data center design) and leadership capabilities to manage teams and client relationships. It's a pivotal role in translating strategic business needs into functional, engineered solutions.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager reports to the Director, Design, indicating a clear management hierarchy. This structure allows for strategic direction from senior leadership while providing autonomy in day-to-day team and project management.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly impacts AirTrunk's ability to deliver hyperscale data centers, which are fundamental to the growth of the digital economy in APME. Their designs influence project timelines, costs, operational efficiency, and sustainability metrics, all of which are critical to the company's commercial success and market leadership.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced data center technologies like liquid cooling, AI integration, and advanced power systems.

• Leadership Expansion: Progress to a Director-level role, managing larger teams, broader design portfolios, or regional design strategy.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on projects in different regions within AirTrunk's expanding footprint.

• Cross-Functional Roles: Potential to transition into roles within construction management, project management, or technology strategy, leveraging their deep understanding of design and infrastructure.

• Mentorship and Training: Opportunities to mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of AirTrunk's design standards and best practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within a high-growth industry. The emphasis on innovation and sustainability provides avenues for developing specialized expertise, while the leadership component offers a trajectory towards senior management roles.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site in Roppongi, Tokyo. This suggests a professional office environment conducive to collaboration, client meetings, and focused design work. AirTrunk emphasizes a dynamic and electric atmosphere.

Office Location(s): Roppongi, Tokyo, Japan. This is a well-known business and entertainment district in Tokyo, offering excellent accessibility via public transportation and a vibrant surrounding area.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The description highlights a "team of challengers and collaborative problem solvers," indicating an environment where open communication and teamwork are encouraged.

• Technology & Tools: As a technology company, expect access to modern design software, collaboration platforms, and potentially advanced visualization tools.

• Client Interaction: Frequent opportunities to engage with top cloud and enterprise customers, requiring a professional and polished demeanor.

• Fast-Paced Operations: The emphasis on "electric atmosphere" and "challenging new ground every day" points to a dynamic workplace where adaptability and proactive engagement are valued.

Work Schedule: While standard full-time hours are expected, the nature of project-based work in data center development may necessitate flexibility. The company culture values responsiveness, suggesting that team members are expected to be available and engaged to meet project demands.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in a prime Tokyo location suggests a professional setting with direct access to clients and project sites. The company culture emphasizes a high-energy, collaborative, and adaptable work environment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or Talent Acquisition will review applications and resumes, focusing on experience in MEP design, data centers, and Japanese construction.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the Director, Design, to assess technical expertise, leadership potential, and cultural fit. Expect questions about your design philosophy, project experience, and approach to team management.

• Technical/Team Interview: Potentially an interview with senior design engineers or project leads. This stage may involve discussing specific technical challenges, design methodologies, and how you handle complex project situations.

• Presentation/Case Study: You may be asked to prepare and present a case study from your portfolio, detailing a significant design project, your role, and the outcomes. This assesses your presentation skills and ability to articulate complex technical information.

• Final Interview: Often with a senior leader or executive to confirm overall fit and discuss career aspirations.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-4 of your most relevant and impactful projects that showcase your experience in MEP design, data centers, and leadership.

• Focus on Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your specific contribution, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., efficiency gains, cost savings, improved reliability, sustainability metrics).

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading design teams, managing consultants, and interfacing with clients.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical details of your designs, including system selections, calculations, and integration challenges.

• Tailor to AirTrunk: If possible, align your presented projects with AirTrunk's focus on hyperscale, sustainability, and advanced technologies.

• Practice Presentation: Rehearse your presentation thoroughly, ensuring smooth delivery, clear articulation, and adherence to time limits.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenarios: Be prepared for hypothetical design challenges related to data center infrastructure, sustainability, or problem-solving in mission-critical environments.

• MEP System Knowledge: Refresh your understanding of HVAC, power distribution, cooling systems, and their application in large-scale facilities.

• Japanese Construction Nuances: Be ready to discuss your experience with Japanese construction practices, regulations, and collaboration with local stakeholders.

• Strategic Thinking: Consider how you would approach developing a Basis-of-Design for a new hyperscale facility or integrating a new sustainable technology.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will likely assess both technical proficiency and soft skills, particularly leadership, communication, and adaptability. A well-prepared portfolio presentation is crucial for demonstrating your capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar platforms for 2D and 3D design.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling (BIM) tools is highly beneficial for complex data center design and coordination.

• MEP Design Software: Familiarity with specialized software for HVAC load calculations, electrical system design, fluid dynamics (CFD), etc.

• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for managing project timelines, tasks, and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from design simulations, performance monitoring, and cost analyses.

• Presentation Software: Advanced skills in PowerPoint or similar for creating compelling client and internal presentations.

• Spreadsheet Software: Proficiency in Microsoft Excel for data manipulation, cost modeling, and analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly managing a CRM, understanding how design interfaces with sales (customer requirements) and operations (performance data) is key. Familiarity with systems that facilitate data flow between design, construction, and operations could be an advantage.

• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and project collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in CAD and BIM is fundamental. Experience with specialized MEP design software and project management tools will be essential for effective design execution and team leadership.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Challengers & Problem Solvers: AirTrunk actively seeks individuals who are not afraid to tackle complex issues and find innovative solutions, aligning with the dynamic nature of hyperscale data center development.

• Dynamic, Transparent, and Responsive: These values suggest a culture that thrives on speed, open communication, and quick adaptation to changing needs and market conditions.

• Go Above and Beyond: This implies a high-performance culture where dedication and extra effort are recognized and encouraged to achieve ambitious goals.

• Sustainability: A core value, driving the integration of environmentally responsible practices and technologies into all aspects of the business, including design.

• Collaboration: Strong emphasis on teamwork, both within design teams and across different departments, to ensure seamless project delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Expect close collaboration with sales (understanding client needs), construction (ensuring design constructability), and operations (feedback on performance and maintainability).

• Direct Client Engagement: A significant part of the role involves direct communication and presentation to top-tier customers, requiring strong interpersonal and relationship-building skills.

• Mentorship & Knowledge Sharing: As a manager, there's an expectation to guide and develop junior team members, fostering a culture of continuous learning and skill development within the design team.

• Feedback Loops: A dynamic environment likely involves regular feedback sessions, both formal and informal, to refine designs, processes, and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The culture at AirTrunk appears to be high-energy, results-oriented, and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and customer focus. Adaptability and a proactive mindset are key to thriving in this environment.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Pace & Change: The "continuous change of directions" requires significant adaptability and the ability to pivot quickly without compromising quality or timelines.

• Complexity of Hyperscale Design: Managing the design of extremely large, multi-megawatt facilities with evolving technological requirements presents significant technical and logistical challenges.

• Balancing Innovation with Practicality: Integrating cutting-edge technologies like liquid cooling and AI while ensuring reliability, cost-effectiveness, and constructability in the Japanese market.

• Cross-Cultural Communication: Effectively leading and collaborating with diverse teams, especially given the bilingual requirement and the global nature of AirTrunk's operations.

• Meeting Evolving Sustainability Goals: Staying ahead of and implementing increasingly stringent environmental regulations and customer demands for sustainable infrastructure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technology Immersion: Direct involvement in the design and implementation of next-generation data center technologies.

• Leadership Development: Opportunities to hone management and strategic planning skills through leading complex projects and teams.

• Industry Exposure: Gaining deep insights into the hyperscale data center market and working with leading global technology companies.

• Professional Certifications: Potential for support in obtaining relevant professional certifications in engineering or project management.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within AirTrunk for guidance and career development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are significant but directly tied to the growth and innovation within the data center industry. These challenges also present substantial opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex MEP design project you led from inception to delivery. What were the key challenges, and how did you overcome them?" (Focus on your leadership, problem-solving, and process management.)

• "How would you approach developing a Basis-of-Design for a new hyperscale data center in Japan, considering both customer requirements and local regulations?" (Assess your strategic thinking, understanding of the design process, and market context.)

• "Discuss your experience with sustainable technologies in critical infrastructure. How would you integrate liquid cooling or advanced battery storage into a new data center design?" (Demonstrate your technical knowledge and forward-thinking approach.)

• "How do you ensure effective communication and collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams and with external clients, especially in a bilingual setting?" (Highlight your communication and stakeholder management skills.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AirTrunk and the hyperscale data center industry?" (Showcase your research and genuine interest.)

• "How do you stay adaptable and manage priorities in a fast-paced, evolving environment?" (Align with AirTrunk's values of dynamism and responsiveness.)

• "Describe a time you had to make a difficult decision with significant commercial implications. What was your process and the outcome?" (Assess your decision-making and commercial awareness.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative and innovative team culture?" (Reflect on your teamwork and problem-solving approach.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear story: Problem -> Your Role -> Solution -> Results (quantifiable where possible).

• Visualize Key Concepts: Use diagrams, renderings, or schematics to illustrate complex design elements.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, present data on efficiency improvements, cost savings, capacity increases, or sustainability metrics achieved.

• Highlight Leadership: Clearly articulate your management of teams, consultants, and client interactions.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about your technical decisions, calculations, and problem-solving approaches.

• Engage Your Audience: Make it a conversation, not a monologue. Ask clarifying questions and be receptive to feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare specific examples that directly address the responsibilities and requirements outlined in the job description. Demonstrating a proactive, adaptable, and technically proficient approach will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the AirTrunk careers portal.

• Tailor Your Resume: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 7+ years of MEP design experience, specifically mentioning data center or mission-critical environments, and your Japanese construction industry expertise. Incorporate keywords from the job description.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 3-4 of your most relevant projects and develop concise presentations or documents detailing your role, technical solutions, leadership contributions, and project outcomes.

• Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse your portfolio presentation thoroughly, focusing on clear articulation, technical depth, and demonstrating your ability to communicate effectively in both English and Japanese.

• Research AirTrunk: Familiarize yourself with AirTrunk's projects, values, and recent news to demonstrate genuine interest and cultural alignment during interviews. Understand their focus on hyperscale, sustainability, and innovation.

⚠️ 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.