Design Manager, Data Center Construction Projects

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager, Data Center Construction Projects

Company: Turner & Townsend

Location: Santiago, Latin America, Chile

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Construction Project Management / Design & Engineering Operations

Date Posted: June 1, 2026

Experience Level: 8-10 years (with 4-5 years in mission-critical/data center or large infrastructure projects)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic implementation and management of Building Information Modeling (BIM) processes for complex data center construction projects.

• Drive efficiency and accuracy in model development, coordination, and data integration throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring seamless handover to operations.

• Foster a culture of digital innovation within project teams, mentoring BIM professionals and promoting advanced digital construction methodologies.

• Ensure adherence to global BIM standards and best practices, translating technical requirements into actionable project plans and workflows.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a senior level, focusing on the operational and technical leadership of BIM within large-scale, mission-critical construction projects, specifically data centers. The emphasis is on process implementation, team management, and technical oversight rather than pure design creation.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Building Information Modeling Execution Plan (BEP) tailored to data center construction project requirements.

• Establish and enforce BIM protocols, standardized workflows, and modeling standards to ensure consistency and quality across all project stakeholders.

• Manage and oversee the comprehensive development of 3D models from conceptual design through to construction, ensuring adherence to Level of Development (LOD) requirements.

• Lead and facilitate regular coordination meetings, utilizing clash detection software (e.g., Navisworks, Revizto) to resolve design conflicts proactively and minimize site issues.

• Integrate subcontractor models into a unified federated model, ensuring data integrity and accurate representation of all project components.

• Oversee the accuracy, LOD, and data integrity of all 3D models, ensuring they meet project specifications and client handover requirements.

• Support construction activities through the generation of accurate Quantity Take-Offs (QTOs), 4D sequencing visualizations, and progress tracking against project schedules.

• Facilitate the linkage of BIM models with Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) processes and commissioning data to streamline project delivery and verification.

• Ensure the successful delivery of COBie data, as-built models, and digital twins for seamless project handover and long-term facility management.

• Support the integration of BIM data with Computer-Aided Facility Management (CAFM) or Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) for enhanced operational efficiency.

• Mentor and guide BIM teams, fostering their technical development and promoting the adoption of digital innovation and advanced construction technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a management and leadership role, focusing on the operational aspects of BIM implementation within a construction context. The emphasis on data center specifics, handover, and integration with facility management systems highlights the role's critical function in the project lifecycle beyond initial design.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience: 8-10 years of comprehensive BIM experience, with a minimum of 4-5 years specifically dedicated to mission-critical facilities, data centers, or other large-scale infrastructure projects.

Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in BIM software, including Autodesk Revit, Navisworks Manage, AutoCAD, BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC).

• Demonstrated experience with 4D planning software such as Synchro or Primavera P6.

• Strong understanding of clash detection workflows and model validation processes.

• Deep knowledge of Level of Development (LOD) requirements and their practical application in construction projects.

• Familiarity with industry standards like ISO 19650 and PAS 1192.

• Comprehensive understanding of MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) systems, their sequencing, and construction phasing within complex projects.

• Proven experience in integrating BIM models with scheduling tools and field workflows.

Preferred Skills:

• Proficiency in Dynamo for parametric design and automation.

• Experience with Rhino and Grasshopper for advanced modeling and computational design.

• Familiarity with CAFM/CMMS systems and their integration requirements.

• Experience with COBie data delivery and digital twin creation.

• Knowledge of construction project controls and performance management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize deep technical expertise in BIM software and standards, coupled with specific project type experience (mission-critical/data centers). The preference for scripting and advanced modeling tools suggests a forward-thinking approach to BIM management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Documentation showcasing the development and implementation of a Building Information Modeling Execution Plan (BEP) for a complex construction project, detailing how it aligned with project goals and stakeholder requirements.

• Case studies demonstrating successful coordination and clash detection processes, highlighting the tools used (e.g., Navisworks, Revizto) and the impact on reducing RFI's and site issues.

• Examples of model management across different project phases, illustrating adherence to LOD standards and data integrity protocols.

Process Documentation:

• Detailed workflows for 3D/4D/5D model development, including QTO generation, sequencing, and progress tracking.

• Procedures for linking BIM models to QA/QC and commissioning data, demonstrating how digital information supports quality assurance.

• Documentation of handover processes for COBie data, as-built models, and digital twins, outlining the data requirements and delivery mechanisms.

• Examples of supporting the integration of BIM data with CAFM/CMMS systems, showcasing the benefits for facility operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: A portfolio demonstrating practical application of BIM processes, including plan development, coordination, data management, and handover, is crucial. Emphasis should be placed on quantifiable results and successful integration with project phases and operational systems.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: An estimated salary range for a Design Manager with 8-10 years of experience in Santiago, Chile, specializing in Data Center Construction, would likely fall between CLP 45,000,000 to CLP 75,000,000 annually. This estimate considers the specialized nature of data center projects, the required technical expertise, the senior level of the role, and local market conditions for construction management professionals.

Benefits:

• Flexible Working Environment: Opportunities for adaptable work arrangements that respect personal needs and promote a healthy work-life integration.

• Work-Life Balance: Company culture and policies designed to support employees in achieving a sustainable balance between professional responsibilities and personal life.

• Global Professional Network: Access to a vast network of over 22,000 professionals across 60+ countries, fostering knowledge sharing and collaboration.

• Diverse Project Portfolio: Opportunity to work on world-impacting projects across real estate, infrastructure, energy, and natural resources sectors.

• Career Development: Access to learning and development programs, mentorship, and opportunities for advancement within a growing global organization.

• Comprehensive Health and Wellness Programs: Support for employee well-being, including health benefits and initiatives promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Working Hours: Standard full-time working hours, likely around 40 hours per week, with an emphasis on flexibility and work-life balance where project demands allow.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on industry benchmarks for similar roles in major South American cities with a strong construction sector, adjusted for the specialization in data centers. Benefits are directly extracted from the job description, highlighting flexibility and work-life balance as key offerings.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services (Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure, Energy, Natural Resources). Turner & Townsend operates at the intersection of these industries, providing program, project, cost, asset, and commercial management services. This context means the operations role is deeply embedded in the project delivery lifecycle, influencing how projects are executed and managed.

Company Size: Over 22,000 people in more than 60 countries. This global scale provides significant opportunities for international collaboration, exposure to diverse project types, and a robust support infrastructure. For operations roles, it implies structured processes, established best practices, and a wide array of internal resources.

Founded: Turner & Townsend has a long history, although the exact founding year isn't specified in the provided text, its established presence indicates a mature organization with deep industry expertise. Its majority ownership by CBRE further solidifies its position and capabilities in the global market.

Team Structure:

• The BIM team is likely part of a larger project management or technical services division, working closely with project managers, engineers, architects, and site construction teams.

• Reporting structure will typically involve reporting to a Project Director or a Head of Digital Construction/BIM for a region or specific large projects.

Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are driven by BIM data, enabling informed decision-making regarding design, scheduling, cost, and risk management.

• Workflow planning and optimization focus on streamlining the BIM process from project inception to handover, ensuring efficiency and accuracy.

• Automation and efficiency practices are encouraged through the use of advanced BIM tools, scripting (e.g., Dynamo), and integrated workflows to reduce manual effort and improve project outcomes.

Company Website: www.turnerandtownsend.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's global reach and diverse industry involvement suggest a dynamic environment where operations professionals can gain broad experience. The emphasis on collaboration and data-driven methodologies aligns with modern GTM and project management practices.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior-level Design Manager position, focusing on the operational leadership of BIM and digital construction within high-stakes data center projects. It requires not only technical expertise but also the ability to manage teams, implement processes, and drive strategic adoption of digital tools. The scope involves significant responsibility for project outcomes related to design coordination, data integrity, and project handover.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager likely reports to a senior project leader (e.g., Project Director, Operations Director) and manages a team of BIM coordinators, modelers, and potentially specialists in areas like 4D planning or data integration. This structure places the role at a critical nexus of technical execution and project oversight.

Operations Impact: The role's impact is direct and substantial, influencing project timelines, construction costs, quality, and risk mitigation. By ensuring accurate and coordinated models, the Design Manager minimizes costly rework, facilitates efficient site operations, and ensures that the final deliverable meets the stringent requirements of data center operations and facility management. The successful handover of digital twins and COBie data directly impacts the client's ability to manage and maintain the facility effectively post-construction.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in data center BIM, digital twins, and advanced analytics for mission-critical infrastructure.

• Leadership: Progress into roles such as Head of BIM/Digital Construction, Director of Project Controls, or broader Project Management leadership positions.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Gain experience in other operational areas like cost management, asset management, or net-zero solutions offered by Turner & Townsend.

• International Mobility: Leverage the company's global presence for opportunities on projects in different regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career progression within specialized construction project management, particularly in the high-demand data center sector. The emphasis on leadership and strategic implementation of digital technologies provides significant growth potential.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is primarily on-site, implying a dynamic and potentially fast-paced work environment, likely involving a combination of site visits and office-based work for coordination and planning. The company emphasizes a healthy, productive, and flexible working environment, suggesting that while on-site presence is key, there's an understanding of work-life balance.

Office Location(s): Santiago, Chile. This location suggests working within a major metropolitan hub that supports large-scale construction and infrastructure development. Specific site locations will vary depending on active projects.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The nature of construction project management necessitates close collaboration with diverse teams, including architects, engineers, contractors, and clients. This role will involve frequent interaction and communication.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-leading BIM software (Autodesk suite, Navisworks, Revizto, Synchro, P6), project management platforms, and potentially company-specific digital solutions will be integral to daily work.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for direct interaction with BIM teams, project management staff, and site personnel, fostering a shared understanding of project goals and challenges.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time working hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected, but the demands of construction projects may require flexibility, including potential overtime or adjusted schedules to meet critical milestones. The company's emphasis on work-life balance suggests that efforts will be made to manage these demands responsibly.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of the role is critical, implying a hands-on approach to project execution. The company's commitment to flexibility and work-life balance, despite the on-site requirement, suggests a supportive work culture.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the required experience and qualifications, with a focus on BIM expertise in mission-critical projects.

• Technical Interview: Detailed discussion of your BIM experience, software proficiency (Revit, Navisworks, ACC, etc.), understanding of BIM standards (ISO 19650), and experience with MEP systems and data center construction. Expect scenario-based questions about managing BIM workflows, clash detection, and data handover.

• Portfolio Review: Presentation of your BIM portfolio, focusing on key projects, your specific contributions, the challenges you faced, and the solutions you implemented. Be prepared to discuss your role in developing BEPs, managing federated models, and delivering digital twins.

• Cultural Fit & Behavioral Interview: Assessment of your leadership style, collaboration skills, problem-solving approach, and alignment with Turner & Townsend's values. Questions may focus on how you mentor teams, handle conflict, and contribute to a positive work environment.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and overall candidacy for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Structure: Organize your portfolio by project type or by BIM process (e.g., BEP development, clash detection, data delivery). For each project, clearly state your role, the project's objectives, the BIM tools and processes used, specific challenges encountered, and the quantifiable outcomes achieved (e.g., reduction in RFIs, improved schedule adherence, successful handover).

• Data Center Focus: Highlight any experience with data center or mission-critical projects, emphasizing your understanding of their unique requirements and complexities.

• Process Demonstration: Clearly articulate your BIM workflows, from plan development to model integration and data handover. Use visuals (screenshots, diagrams) to illustrate complex processes.

• Metrics & ROI: Quantify your achievements wherever possible. For example, "Implemented clash detection process that reduced site rework by X%" or "Ensured accurate COBie delivery, enabling Y% faster handover to facility management."

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared to discuss how you would approach developing a BEP for a challenging data center project.

• Anticipate questions about resolving complex clashes involving MEP systems.

• Think about strategies for integrating diverse subcontractor models into a unified federated model.

• Prepare examples of how you have mentored BIM teams or driven digital innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is expected to be thorough, focusing on both technical BIM proficiency and project management capabilities. A well-curated portfolio that showcases practical experience and quantifiable results is paramount for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• 3D Modeling: Autodesk Revit (Expert Proficiency)

• Coordination & Clash Detection: Autodesk Navisworks Manage (Expert Proficiency), Revizto

• Project Management Platforms: Autodesk BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC)

• 4D Planning: Synchro, Primavera P6 (Familiarity/Experience)

• Scripting & Automation: Dynamo (Proficiency a plus), Rhino, Grasshopper (a plus)

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM data extraction and analysis for Quantity Take-Offs (QTOs) and cost estimation.

• Reporting on clash detection status, model quality, and progress tracking against schedules.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding data integration with Facility Management systems like CAFM/CMMS is key.

• Automation through tools like Dynamo for repetitive tasks and workflows.

• Potential use of project management software for workflow automation and task management.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in the Autodesk AEC Collection is essential, with a strong emphasis on Revit and Navisworks. Experience with ACC and 4D planning tools is also critical for this role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Professionalism: Upholding high standards in all project dealings, ensuring accuracy and reliability in BIM data and project execution.

• Collaboration & Partnership: Working closely with clients, consultants, and internal teams to achieve shared project goals, fostering a cooperative and communicative environment.

• Innovation & Digital Excellence: Embracing and driving the adoption of digital technologies and advanced BIM processes to enhance project delivery and efficiency.

• Accountability & Delivery: Taking ownership of BIM processes and outcomes, ensuring timely and high-quality project deliverables, particularly for data center construction.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with architects, engineers, construction managers, and client representatives to ensure seamless BIM integration across all disciplines.

• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging a culture of continuous improvement through regular review of BIM workflows and soliciting feedback from team members and stakeholders.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting an environment where best practices, lessons learned, and innovative techniques are shared across project teams and the wider organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company values likely emphasize a professional, collaborative, and forward-thinking approach, with a strong focus on delivering high-quality projects through teamwork and technological advancement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the technical BIM requirements with the diverse needs and technical understanding of various project stakeholders (clients, contractors, designers).

• Ensuring Data Integrity Across Complex Projects: Maintaining consistency and accuracy of BIM data across multiple disciplines and project phases, especially in large-scale data center builds.

• Integrating Legacy Systems with Modern BIM Workflows: Facilitating the seamless integration of BIM outputs with older or disparate project management and facility management systems.

• Driving Adoption of New Technologies: Championing and implementing new digital tools and methodologies within project teams, overcoming potential resistance to change.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Specialization: Opportunities to gain certifications or advanced training in specialized areas like digital twins, parametric design, or specific data center BIM requirements.

• Industry Conferences & Networking: Participation in leading industry events related to construction technology, BIM, and data centers to stay abreast of trends and network with peers.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within Turner & Townsend for guidance on career development, leadership, and strategic project management.

• Cross-Functional Training: Opportunities to learn about other aspects of Turner & Townsend's service offerings, such as cost management, asset management, or net-zero consulting, broadening professional capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges common in complex, technology-driven projects, offering significant opportunities for professional growth through specialization and leadership development within a global firm.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a comprehensive BIM Execution Plan (BEP) for a data center project. What key elements would you ensure are included, and how would you gain stakeholder buy-in?" (Focus on your structured approach, risk mitigation, and stakeholder management.)

• "How do you approach leading clash detection meetings? Walk us through a challenging clash you resolved and the impact it had on the project." (Highlight your facilitation skills, problem-solving methodology, and ability to quantify results.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Turner & Townsend and our work in the data center sector? How do you see your role contributing to our mission of transforming outcomes?" (Research recent projects, company values, and express genuine interest.)

• "How do you foster a collaborative environment within a BIM team and with external stakeholders?" (Provide examples of your communication and team-building strategies.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Narrative Arc: For each project in your portfolio, create a compelling story: the challenge, your solution, and the outcome. Clearly define your personal contribution versus team contributions.

• Visual Aids: Use high-quality screenshots of models, clash reports, and workflow diagrams. Ensure they are clear and easy to understand. For data center projects, highlight unique aspects like power, cooling, or network infrastructure modeling.

• Quantify Everything: Wherever possible, present metrics: reduction in RFIs, time saved in coordination, accuracy of QTOs, successful handover of specific data sets (COBie, digital twins).

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experiences that directly align with the responsibilities of a Design Manager for data center construction projects, such as BEP development, MEP coordination, and handover processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare to discuss your experience with specific software and workflows in detail, using concrete examples from your portfolio. Demonstrating an understanding of data center specifics and a proactive, collaborative leadership style will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on SmartRecruiters.

• Customize Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 8-10 years of BIM experience, with a specific focus on your 4-5 years in mission-critical/data center or large infrastructure projects. Use keywords from the job description such as "BIM Execution Plan," "Clash Detection," "Navisworks," "Autodesk Revit," "MEP Systems," "4D Sequencing," and "Digital Twins."

• Curate Your Portfolio: Select 2-3 of your most relevant projects that best showcase your BIM management skills, particularly those in data centers or similar complex environments. Prepare to discuss your specific role, the challenges, the processes you implemented, and the quantifiable results achieved.

• Prepare for Technical & Behavioral Questions: Practice discussing your proficiency with BIM software (Revit, Navisworks, ACC), your understanding of BIM standards (ISO 19650), and your approach to team leadership and stakeholder collaboration.

• Research Turner & Townsend: Familiarize yourself with the company's global presence, its expertise in real estate, infrastructure, and energy sectors, and any recent data center projects or news. Understand their stated values and how your approach aligns with their culture of partnership 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.

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