Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager

Company: DayOne

Location: NTP Campus (JB), Malaysia

Job Type: Full-Time

Category: Engineering / Project Management (Data Center Operations)

Date Posted: May 21, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversee and manage the end-to-end design and implementation lifecycle for data center facilities, ensuring alignment with strategic business objectives.

• Provide expert technical leadership in electrical systems and critical infrastructure, ensuring designs meet rigorous industry standards, regulatory requirements, and client specifications.

• Drive quality assurance initiatives for all electrical designs and implementations, minimizing project risks and ensuring operational reliability.

• Collaborate extensively with cross-functional teams, including project managers, architects, engineers, contractors, and vendors, to deliver integrated and high-performance data center solutions.

• Manage vendor relationships and equipment selection processes to ensure optimal alignment with design requirements and project budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required experience point heavily towards a specialized role within Data Center Operations, focusing specifically on the design and implementation of electrical infrastructure. This role demands a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, and stakeholder coordination.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Project Coordination: Actively collaborate with project managers, architects, and other engineering disciplines to ensure seamless integration of electrical designs into comprehensive project plans and timelines.

• Technical Leadership & Expertise: Serve as the primary technical authority for electrical systems within data center projects, providing in-depth guidance and direction to ensure designs adhere to local codes, international standards (e.g., TIA-942, Uptime Institute Tiers), and client-specific operational needs.

• Quality Assurance & Risk Mitigation: Develop and enforce robust quality control processes for all electrical design documentation and implementation phases. Proactively identify potential technical issues, design flaws, or compliance gaps, and implement effective mitigation strategies to minimize project risks and prevent costly rework.

• Problem Solving & Innovation: Address and resolve complex technical challenges that arise during the design and construction phases of data center projects. Foster an environment of continuous improvement by exploring innovative design solutions and best practices to enhance efficiency, reliability, and scalability.

• Vendor & Supplier Management: Lead the process of specifying, evaluating, and selecting electrical equipment and components from vendors and suppliers. Negotiate terms, ensure compliance with technical specifications and budget constraints, and manage vendor performance throughout the project lifecycle.

• Design Documentation & Reporting: Prepare, review, and approve all critical design documentation, including detailed technical specifications, electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, power distribution layouts, and comprehensive reports. Maintain accurate and organized project records for compliance and future reference.

• Stakeholder Communication: Facilitate clear and consistent communication with all project stakeholders, including internal engineering teams, external contractors, clients, and regulatory bodies. Provide regular project updates, present design proposals, and manage expectations effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on "electrical designs and systems" and "local codes and standards" within the raw description suggests a strong focus on electrical engineering within the data center context. The role likely involves deep dives into power distribution, UPS systems, generators, and associated infrastructure.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

Language Proficiency:

• Working proficiency in English is preferred for effective communication with global teams and clients.

Experience:

Required Skills:

• Data Center Electrical Design: Deep understanding of electrical power systems, including high-voltage distribution, low-voltage distribution, UPS systems, emergency power generation, cooling systems (HVAC), and fire suppression systems within a data center environment.

• Project Management: Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, including scope definition, resource allocation, budget management, timeline adherence, and risk assessment.

• Technical Leadership: Demonstrated capacity to lead engineering teams, provide technical guidance, and make critical design decisions.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Expertise in developing and implementing quality assurance protocols for engineering designs and construction projects.

• Local Codes & Standards: In-depth knowledge of relevant local building codes, electrical codes (e.g., NEC, IEC), and industry-specific standards (e.g., Uptime Institute, TIA).

• Vendor Management: Strong negotiation and supplier management skills, with experience in specifying and procuring critical infrastructure components.

• Documentation & Reporting: Proficiency in creating, reviewing, and managing technical specifications, engineering drawings, and project reports.

• Problem-Solving: Analytical and critical thinking skills to effectively identify, diagnose, and resolve complex technical and project-related issues.

• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities, with a proven track record of effective stakeholder engagement and cross-functional collaboration.

Preferred Skills:

• Advanced Degree: Master's degree in Electrical Engineering or a related field.

• International Standards Familiarity: Experience with international data center design standards and best practices beyond local requirements.

• MEP Design Integration: Experience coordinating with other MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) disciplines.

• BIM/CAD Proficiency: Familiarity with Building Information Modeling (BIM) software and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools for design visualization and coordination.

• Second Language Proficiency: Fluency in languages commonly spoken in DayOne's key operational regions (e.g., Mandarin, German, French, etc.).

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the 8+ years of experience requirement and the focus on data centers, candidates are expected to have practical experience with the specifics of hyperscale or enterprise-level data center electrical infrastructure, including redundancy strategies (e.g., N+1, 2N) and energy efficiency considerations.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Examples: Showcase detailed examples of past data center or critical infrastructure design projects, highlighting your specific role, contributions, and the scale/complexity of the projects.

• Electrical System Designs: Include examples of detailed electrical schematics, single-line diagrams, power distribution plans, UPS/generator system layouts, and load calculations. Annotations explaining design choices, redundancy levels, and compliance with standards are crucial.

• Project Management Case Studies: Present case studies demonstrating successful project coordination, risk mitigation, and on-time, within-budget delivery of complex engineering projects. Quantify achievements where possible.

• Quality Control Documentation: Provide examples of quality assurance plans, checklists, or reports used to ensure design accuracy and compliance.

• Vendor Specification Examples: Illustrate examples of technical specifications created for electrical equipment procurement, showcasing your ability to define precise requirements.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow: Clearly outline your typical design workflow from initial concept and requirements gathering through to detailed design, review, and handover. Highlight how you integrate stakeholder feedback and ensure compliance.

• Quality Management Process: Document the steps you take to ensure the quality and accuracy of designs, including peer reviews, code compliance checks, and risk assessment procedures.

• Project Execution Methodology: Describe your approach to managing the execution of designs, including coordination with construction teams, site inspections, and issue resolution during the implementation phase.

• Documentation Standards: Explain your standards for creating and managing technical documentation, ensuring clarity, completeness, and accessibility for all project stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role in a rapidly growing company like DayOne, the portfolio should emphasize not just technical design prowess but also the ability to manage processes, lead teams, and ensure consistent quality across multiple projects. Demonstrating a structured approach to design and project management is key.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a provident fund or similar retirement savings scheme.

• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences to enhance skills in data center design and management.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project success and company profitability.

• Relocation Assistance: May be available for candidates relocating to the NTP Campus (JB) area.

• Employee Assistance Program: Confidential counseling and support services.

Working Hours:

• Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the critical nature of data center operations and project deadlines, some flexibility may be required, potentially involving occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet project milestones or address urgent operational needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on general market data for similar roles in Malaysia and the specified experience level. Actual compensation will be determined by DayOne based on the candidate's specific qualifications, experience, and the company's internal compensation structure. The benefits listed are typical for a company of DayOne's profile in this sector.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Data Center Infrastructure Development and Operations. DayOne operates within a rapidly evolving and critical sector that underpins the digital economy, serving hyperscale cloud providers, enterprises, and technology companies that require robust, scalable, and high-performance digital infrastructure.

Company Size: DayOne is described as one of the fastest-growing companies in the industry, indicating a dynamic and expanding operational footprint, likely ranging from several hundred to over a thousand employees globally. This growth suggests a culture that embraces change, innovation, and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Founded: While the founding date isn't explicitly stated, the context of rapid global expansion implies a relatively established yet agile organization, likely founded within the last 10-20 years, allowing for both experience and a forward-thinking mindset.

Team Structure:

• Operations Focus: The role is embedded within a team responsible for the physical infrastructure—specifically data centers. This team likely comprises specialized engineers (electrical, mechanical, civil), project managers, construction managers, and operations personnel.

• Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or VP of Engineering/Design, or potentially a Head of Data Center Development, with direct oversight of design-related tasks and potentially a small team of design engineers or CAD specialists.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: This role is inherently cross-functional, requiring close collaboration with Project Management, Construction, Operations, Procurement, and external consultants/contractors to ensure designs are buildable, maintainable, and meet stringent operational requirements.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data (e.g., power usage effectiveness (PUE) targets, cooling efficiency metrics, load projections) to inform design decisions and optimize facility performance.

• Agile Project Execution: Given the growth trajectory, DayOne likely employs agile or iterative methodologies for project planning and execution, allowing for rapid adaptation to market demands and technological advancements.

• Standardization & Scalability: A key focus will be on developing standardized design patterns and modular solutions that can be scaled efficiently across multiple global locations, ensuring consistency and cost-effectiveness.

Company Website: [Company URL] (Note: The provided URL was an organization URL, not a direct company website. Assuming a typical domain structure, it might be day-one.us or similar, but requires verification.)

📝 Enhancement Note: The description of DayOne as a "global leader" and "fastest-growing" implies a culture that values innovation, efficiency, and scalability. Operations professionals in such an environment are expected to be proactive, adaptable, and focused on driving tangible results.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned as a senior-level position, likely mid-to-senior management within the engineering and design function of data center operations. It requires significant technical depth and project leadership experience, moving beyond individual contribution to overseeing complex design initiatives and potentially managing junior staff.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager is expected to report to senior leadership within the engineering or development department. This position acts as a key interface between strategic objectives and tactical design execution, bridging the gap between high-level planning and on-the-ground implementation.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on the company's operational capabilities and financial performance. Well-designed data centers are critical for reliability, energy efficiency, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Poor design choices can lead to operational inefficiencies, higher PUE, increased CAPEX/OPEX, and potential downtime, directly affecting revenue and client satisfaction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to advance into roles such as Director of Data Center Design, VP of Engineering, or Head of Global Data Center Development, with expanded responsibilities for larger teams, broader geographical oversight, and greater strategic influence.

• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific areas of data center infrastructure, such as advanced cooling technologies, renewable energy integration, or hyperscale facility design, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.

• Global Project Exposure: Involvement in international projects, providing exposure to diverse regulatory environments, construction practices, and market demands, enhancing global project management capabilities.

• Strategic Contribution: Opportunity to contribute to DayOne's global expansion strategy by shaping the design standards and infrastructure blueprints for new market entries.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Senior Manager" designation (implied by the 8+ years experience and responsibilities) suggests a path towards executive leadership within the data center operations and infrastructure domain. The emphasis on global growth implies significant opportunities for individuals who can contribute to scaling the company's physical footprint.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the NTP Campus (JB) in Malaysia, suggesting a modern, purpose-built facility designed to support the company's operations and engineering teams. This environment is likely to be professional, collaborative, and technologically equipped.

Office Location(s): NTP Campus (JB), Malaysia. This location is likely a hub for DayOne's operations in the region, offering access to key infrastructure and talent pools.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a workspace that encourages interaction and knowledge sharing among engineering, project management, and operations teams. Open-plan areas or dedicated project rooms may be utilized for design reviews and collaborative problem-solving.

• Tools & Technology: Access to state-of-the-art design software (CAD, BIM), project management platforms, and communication tools will be standard. This environment supports efficient design processes and facilitates seamless collaboration with remote teams if applicable.

• Team Interaction: Regular opportunities to interact with peers, senior management, and potentially clients during design presentations and project discussions. The role requires strong interpersonal skills to navigate these interactions effectively.

Work Schedule: The primary work schedule will be standard business hours (approximately 40 hours per week), but the demanding nature of data center projects and global operations may necessitate occasional flexibility, including extended hours or weekend work to meet critical deadlines or address urgent issues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "NTP Campus (JB)" location suggests a significant operational base in Johor Bahru, Malaysia. This implies a potentially robust infrastructure and a dedicated team environment, fostering a strong sense of purpose and contribution to DayOne's regional and global objectives.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter conducts a preliminary review of your resume and qualifications to assess basic fit and interest.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the hiring manager (likely the Director of Engineering or similar) to assess technical expertise, project management experience, leadership style, and alignment with role requirements. Be prepared to elaborate on your experience with data center electrical design and project lifecycle.

• Technical Assessment/Case Study: You may be asked to complete a technical assessment or present a case study from your portfolio. This could involve analyzing a design problem, proposing solutions for a specific data center challenge (e.g., power redundancy, cooling efficiency), or walking through a past project in detail.

• Panel Interview: Potentially a panel interview with key stakeholders from engineering, operations, and project management teams to evaluate your collaboration skills, communication, and overall fit within the broader organization.

• Final Interview/Offer: A final discussion with senior leadership, followed by a job offer if successful.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful data center or critical infrastructure projects that best showcase your electrical design expertise, project management capabilities, and problem-solving skills.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific role and responsibilities, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, risk reduction, timeline adherence).

• Highlight Processes: Explain the design methodologies, quality assurance processes, and project management frameworks you employed. Demonstrate your understanding of industry best practices and local/international codes.

• Visual Aids: Use clear, professional visuals such as simplified schematics, layout diagrams, and progress photos (if permissible) to illustrate your points. Ensure any proprietary information is anonymized.

• Storytelling: Frame your project descriptions as compelling narratives. Start with the problem, detail your approach and solutions, and conclude with the successful outcome and lessons learned.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Center Fundamentals: Refresh your knowledge on data center design principles, including power distribution, cooling strategies, redundancy levels (N, N+1, 2N), PUE, and key industry standards.

• Electrical Systems: Review common electrical components in data centers (e.g., switchgear, transformers, UPS, generators, PDUs) and their operational characteristics.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Anticipate hypothetical scenarios related to design conflicts, unexpected site conditions, or operational issues and prepare structured approaches to resolving them.

• Stakeholder Management: Practice articulating technical concepts clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences, demonstrating your ability to manage diverse stakeholder expectations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a "Design Manager" role, especially within a growing company, means DayOne will be looking for candidates who can not only design but also manage the design process, mentor others, and ensure consistency. A strong portfolio demonstrating structured thinking and successful project outcomes is paramount.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency in AutoCAD or similar Computer-Aided Design software for creating detailed engineering drawings and schematics.

• BIM Software: Experience with Building Information Modeling tools like Revit, Navisworks, or similar platforms for integrated design, clash detection, and visualization.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools such as Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or Primavera P6 for project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Zoom for real-time communication and virtual collaboration with distributed teams.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from PUE monitoring, energy consumption reports, and performance logs to inform design improvements. While not a primary data analyst role, understanding data-driven design is key.

• Reporting Software: Proficiency in generating reports using Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, or dedicated business intelligence tools for performance summaries and stakeholder updates.

CRM & Automation:

• ERP/Procurement Systems: Familiarity with enterprise resource planning or procurement systems used for vendor management, equipment specification, and purchasing processes.

• Document Management Systems: Experience with systems like SharePoint, Google Drive, or specialized document control software for managing design documentation and project records.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager, proficiency in CAD and BIM is fundamental. Experience with project management software is also critical for overseeing complex projects. DayOne's growth suggests they likely utilize robust digital tools for design and project execution.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Innovation & Efficiency: A drive to constantly seek out and implement innovative design solutions that enhance operational efficiency, reduce energy consumption, and improve facility performance.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: A strong emphasis on working cooperatively across different departments and with external partners to achieve common goals, fostering a supportive and integrated team environment.

• Quality & Reliability: A deep commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable designs that meet stringent industry standards and ensure the continuous operation of critical data center infrastructure.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking personal responsibility for design outcomes, project timelines, and the overall success of the data center facilities, demonstrating a proactive and results-oriented mindset.

• Global Mindset: Embracing diversity and understanding the nuances of operating in different international markets, contributing to a globally cohesive and adaptable organization.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encourages proactive engagement with project management, construction, operations, and procurement teams from the early stages of design to ensure all perspectives are considered and integrated.

• Open Feedback Culture: Values constructive feedback and open dialogue during design reviews and project meetings, promoting a continuous learning environment where ideas can be shared and refined.

• Knowledge Sharing: Fosters a culture of sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical insights across teams and projects to elevate the collective expertise within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: As a fast-growing global company, DayOne likely champions values that support rapid scaling, adaptability, and a strong sense of shared purpose. Operations professionals are expected to be proactive contributors who align with these core principles.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Growth Management: Keeping pace with DayOne's aggressive expansion plans while maintaining design quality, standardization, and timely project delivery. This requires agile planning and efficient resource management.

• Global Standardization vs. Local Adaptation: Balancing the need for globally consistent design standards with the requirement to comply with diverse local codes, regulations, and site-specific conditions across different regions.

• Technological Evolution: Staying abreast of rapidly advancing technologies in data center design, power management, cooling systems, and automation, and integrating them effectively into designs.

• Complex Stakeholder Management: Navigating the expectations and requirements of various stakeholders, including clients, contractors, internal teams, and regulatory bodies, often with competing priorities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Design Certifications: Opportunities to pursue certifications such as Certified Data Center Design Professional (CDCDP) or other specialized accreditations.

• Leadership Training: Access to management and leadership development programs to hone skills in team management, strategic planning, and executive communication.

• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Participation in leading data center and engineering conferences to network, learn about emerging trends, and gain insights from industry experts.

• Mentorship Programs: Potential to be mentored by senior leaders within DayOne or to mentor junior engineers, fostering personal and professional growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges outlined are inherent to a high-growth, global infrastructure company. Successful candidates will demonstrate resilience, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving and continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to managing the design lifecycle for a large-scale data center project, from initial concept to handover. How do you ensure all stakeholders are aligned?" - Preparation: Outline your project management framework, emphasizing key phases, deliverables, communication touchpoints, and risk management strategies.

• "How do you balance the need for standardized design patterns with the unique requirements and constraints of specific project sites and local regulations?" - Preparation: Discuss your methodology for creating a flexible design framework that allows for regional adaptation while maintaining core standards. Provide examples of how you've handled this.

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about DayOne and our position in the data center market? What excites you about this role and our company's growth trajectory?" - Preparation: Research DayOne's recent news, projects, and market presence. Articulate how your skills and aspirations align with their vision and rapid expansion.

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment among design teams, project managers, and operational staff?" - Preparation: Discuss your communication strategies, experience with cross-functional teams, and how you build consensus and drive shared ownership.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the "Challenge," "Solution," and "Result." Emphasize your specific contributions and the impact of your work.

• Focus on Process & Rationale: Don't just show drawings; explain why certain design choices were made, referencing codes, standards, and project requirements. Highlight your decision-making process.

• Showcase Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical intricacies of your designs, including power calculations, load balancing, redundancy strategies, and equipment selection rationale.

• Demonstrate Management Skills: Illustrate how you managed timelines, budgets, resources, and stakeholder expectations throughout the design process.

• Be Concise and Engaging: Aim for clarity and brevity. Use visuals effectively and be ready to answer in-depth questions about any aspect of your presented work.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interviewers will be assessing your technical depth, project management capabilities, leadership potential, and cultural fit. A strong understanding of data center specifics and a clear articulation of your strategic thinking will be crucial.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on DayOne's Workday careers portal.

• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to specifically highlight your experience in data center design, electrical engineering, project management, and any relevant achievements in critical infrastructure projects. Ensure your resume clearly states your years of experience and specific responsibilities in these areas.

• Resume Optimization: Integrate keywords from the job description, such as "Data Center," "Electrical Design," "Project Coordination," "Technical Leadership," "Quality Assurance," and "Local Codes," naturally throughout your resume. Quantify your achievements with data and metrics whenever possible.

• Prepare for Case Study: Anticipate a scenario where you might need to present a design challenge or walk through a past project. Practice articulating your process, decisions, and outcomes clearly and concisely, focusing on the impact of your work.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research DayOne, focusing on their mission, recent projects, global expansion strategy, and any stated company values. Understand their position in the data center industry and prepare to discuss why you are a good fit for their dynamic and growing environment.

⚠️ 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.