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 Management

Date Posted: August 3, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and BIM (Building Information Modeling) process for complex data center construction projects, ensuring adherence to project objectives and digital standards.

• Develop, implement, and manage the BIM Execution Plan (BEP), establishing BIM protocols, workflows, and modeling standards across all project phases.

• Oversee the integration of models from various disciplines and subcontractors into a unified federated model, ensuring accuracy and data integrity.

• Drive clash detection processes using advanced software, facilitating resolution to minimize constructability issues and optimize project timelines.

• Support the construction phase with accurate Quantity Take-Offs (QTOs), 4D sequencing, progress tracking, and linking models to QA/QC and commissioning data.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a specialized Design Management position with a strong emphasis on BIM and its application within data center construction. The focus is on leveraging digital tools for design coordination, constructability, and project delivery. The "10+ years" experience level suggests a senior position requiring significant autonomy and leadership.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and meticulously implement the BIM Execution Plan (BEP) to govern all BIM-related activities throughout the project lifecycle.

• Define and enforce BIM protocols, establish efficient workflows, and maintain consistent modeling standards across all project disciplines and stakeholders.

• Manage and coordinate the development of 3D models across all project phases, from conceptual design through to as-built documentation.

• Lead regular coordination meetings, employing tools like Navisworks and Revizto for proactive clash detection and resolution, significantly reducing on-site issues.

• Seamlessly integrate subcontractor models into the central federated model, ensuring compatibility, accuracy, and adherence to project standards.

• Continuously oversee the accuracy of 3D, 4D, and 5D models, rigorously checking Level of Development (LOD) and data integrity to support project controls and reporting.

• Provide critical support to the construction team by generating accurate QTOs, developing 4D sequencing simulations, and assisting with progress tracking.

• Link project models directly to QA/QC processes and commissioning data to ensure a streamlined and verifiable project completion.

• Ensure the successful delivery of project handover documentation, including COBie data, comprehensive as-built models, and digital twins for facility management.

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

• Mentor and guide BIM teams, fostering a culture of digital innovation and continuous improvement in design and construction methodologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into BIM workflows, emphasizing proactive issue resolution through clash detection and model integration. The focus on data handover (COBie, Digital Twins) and integration with FM systems indicates a forward-thinking approach to asset management post-construction.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

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

Experience:

• 8 to 10 years of comprehensive BIM experience.

• A minimum of 4 to 5 years specifically focused on mission-critical facilities, data centers, or other large-scale, complex infrastructure projects. Required Skills:

• Expert proficiency in BIM software, including:

  • Autodesk Revit (essential for architectural, structural, and MEP modeling)
  • Navisworks Manage (critical for model aggregation, clash detection, and coordination)
  • AutoCAD (for 2D drafting and integration)
  • BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) (for cloud-based collaboration and project management)

• Strong understanding and practical application of ISO 19650, PAS 1192, and other common BIM standards and protocols.

• Proven ability in clash detection, model validation, and understanding/applying Level of Development (LOD) requirements.

• Experience integrating BIM models with scheduling software (e.g., Synchro, Primavera) for 4D planning.

• Familiarity with integrating BIM data with field workflows and site operations.

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

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

• Experience with Dynamo for parametric design and automation.

• Familiarity with Rhino and Grasshopper for advanced geometric modeling.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience in mission-critical/data center projects is a key differentiator, indicating the need for candidates familiar with the unique demands of these environments (e.g., uptime, redundancy, specialized systems). The extensive list of required software points to a technically demanding role.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase projects where you developed and implemented a comprehensive BIM Execution Plan (BEP), detailing your role and the plan's key components.

• Provide examples of workflow optimization and standardization you've implemented, demonstrating tangible improvements in efficiency or model quality.

• Present case studies of successful model integration and coordination efforts, highlighting how you managed multiple disciplines and subcontractor models.

• Include examples of how you utilized clash detection and resolution processes to prevent costly construction issues, quantifying the impact where possible.

• Demonstrate experience in delivering handover documentation, such as COBie data, as-built models, and digital twins, and explain their utility for facility management. Process Documentation:

• Document your approach to defining and enforcing BIM protocols and modeling standards, including quality control measures.

• Illustrate your methods for managing model development across different project phases, from design to construction and handover.

• Detail your strategies for linking BIM models to project controls, including QTO, 4D sequencing, and progress tracking.

• Explain your process for integrating BIM data with other project systems like CAFM/CMMS, highlighting the benefits of such integrations.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical BIM application, process development, and quantifiable results is crucial. Candidates should be prepared to walk through their contributions to past projects, emphasizing their technical skills and problem-solving abilities within a BIM framework.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Given the location (Santiago, Chile), the experience level (10+ years), the specialized industry (Data Centers), and the global nature of Turner & Townsend, a competitive salary range for a Design Manager with this profile would typically fall between CLP 60,000,000 to CLP 90,000,000 CLP per year (approximately USD 63,000 - 95,000 USD, subject to exchange rates). This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior project management and BIM roles in major South American cities, considering the high demand for data center construction expertise.

Benefits:

• Flexible working environment: Turner & Townsend emphasizes a healthy, productive, and flexible working environment.

• Work-life balance: The company actively promotes a healthy work-life balance for its employees.

• Professional development: Opportunities for continuous learning and skill enhancement, particularly in digital innovation and advanced BIM techniques.

• Global opportunities: As a global firm, there may be potential for international exposure or collaboration.

• Comprehensive insurance and retirement plans (standard for large professional services firms, specifics to be confirmed). Working Hours:

The role is full-time, with an estimated 40 hours per week. However, the emphasis on a flexible working environment and work-life balance suggests that while core hours are expected, there may be some flexibility in scheduling, especially given the on-site nature of the role.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is a benchmark for a senior role in a major city like Santiago, considering the specialized nature of data center construction and BIM expertise. Candidates should verify specific compensation packages during the interview process.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Professional Services (Construction, Real Estate, Infrastructure, Energy, Natural Resources). Turner & Townsend operates across a diverse range of sectors, with a significant focus on large-scale capital projects.

Company Size: Turner & Townsend is a large global professional services firm with over 22,000 employees in more than 60 countries. This scale provides access to extensive resources, global best practices, and a broad network of expertise.

Founded: Turner & Townsend has a long history, tracing its origins back to 1844. This legacy signifies stability, extensive experience, and established methodologies in project and cost management.

Team Structure:

• The operations team likely consists of specialized BIM professionals, project managers, and technical experts focused on delivering complex construction projects.

• Reporting is expected to be within a project-specific hierarchy, likely reporting to a Project Director or Head of Design for the data center portfolio.

• Cross-functional collaboration is inherent, requiring close interaction with project management, engineering disciplines, site construction teams, clients, and potentially external consultants and subcontractors. Methodology:

• Data analysis and insights are fundamental, driven by BIM data for decision-making, progress tracking, and risk management.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to the role, particularly in establishing and refining BIM processes.

• Automation and efficiency are key drivers, with an expectation to leverage digital tools to streamline design coordination and construction delivery.

Company Website: www.turnerandtownsend.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Working for a global firm like Turner & Townsend offers exposure to international standards and best practices. The company's deep roots suggest a culture that values experience, process, and client relationships, while its modern capabilities highlight a commitment to digital transformation.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the BIM and Design Management domain. It demands not only technical expertise in BIM software and processes but also the leadership skills to manage teams, drive project outcomes, and influence project strategy. It's a critical role in ensuring the successful digital delivery of complex data center projects.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a senior project leader, such as a Project Director, Program Manager, or Head of Design, within the data center construction division. They will, in turn, lead and mentor a team of BIM coordinators, modelers, and potentially other design support staff.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager has a direct and significant impact on project success by ensuring design coordination, minimizing clashes, optimizing constructability, and facilitating efficient data handover. Their work directly influences project timelines, budget adherence, quality, and the long-term operability of the data center through accurate digital assets.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progress into roles such as BIM Director, Head of Digital Construction, or Senior Project Director, managing larger portfolios or more complex projects.

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific areas like digital twins, advanced data analytics for construction, or net-zero construction technologies.

• International Mobility: Leverage the global presence of Turner & Townsend for opportunities in different regions or on international flagship projects.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership skills by mentoring junior staff and contributing to the company's BIM training programs and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a pivotal point for career growth, offering a clear path towards leadership in digital construction and project management within a highly specialized and in-demand sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: While the role is primarily on-site for data center construction projects, Turner & Townsend also offers a flexible working environment, suggesting that there may be opportunities for hybrid work or remote collaboration for certain tasks, supported by their global network and digital tools. The primary work setting will be project sites and associated site offices.

Office Location(s): The role is based in Santiago, Chile. This implies working on construction sites within the Santiago metropolitan area or potentially other locations in Chile where data center projects are underway.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Expect a highly collaborative setting, working closely with project managers, engineers, site supervisors, clients, and subcontractors. This requires strong interpersonal and communication skills.

• Operations Tools & Technology: Access to industry-leading BIM software, project management platforms, and communication tools will be standard. This role is at the forefront of digital construction technology.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the BIM team, design consultants, and site teams will be essential for coordinating efforts, resolving issues, and ensuring project alignment.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected. However, the dynamic nature of construction projects may require flexibility to meet project deadlines, especially during critical phases of design and construction. The company's commitment to work-life balance aims to mitigate excessive overtime.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site nature of this role is critical. While flexibility is mentioned, the core responsibilities will demand presence at project locations to effectively manage design coordination and site integration.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly BIM experience in data centers and proficiency in key software.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth discussions about your BIM methodologies, experience with specific software (Revit, Navisworks, ACC), and your understanding of data center construction challenges. Expect questions on your approach to BEP development, clash detection, and 4D/5D integration.

• Portfolio Presentation: You may be asked to present a selection of your past work. This is where you'll showcase your BIM Execution Plans, case studies of resolved clashes, examples of federated models, and successful handover documentation. Focus on demonstrating quantifiable results and your problem-solving approach.

• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: This assesses your communication skills, leadership potential, ability to collaborate with diverse teams, and alignment with Turner & Townsend's values. Questions will focus on how you handle challenges, manage stakeholders, and contribute to team success.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership to discuss strategic fit and long-term potential within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: Whenever possible, use metrics to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., "Reduced clashes by X%," "Improved QTO accuracy by Y%," "Streamlined handover process leading to Z days saved").

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project showcased, clearly outline the challenge, your role and approach, the tools and processes used, and the achieved outcomes.

• Highlight Data Center Specifics: If you have data center experience, emphasize it. Discuss your understanding of their unique requirements and how your BIM skills addressed them.

• Showcase Process Development: Demonstrate your ability to create and implement robust BIM processes, not just execute tasks. This includes BEPs, standards, and workflows.

• Visuals are Key: Use screenshots, diagrams, and short video clips (if permissible) to illustrate complex BIM models, clash reports, and workflows.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for scenario-based questions: "How would you handle a major clash discovered late in the design phase?" or "What steps would you take to ensure subcontractor model compliance?"

• Practice articulating your BIM strategy for a hypothetical data center project.

• Understand the latest trends in digital construction, including digital twins, AI in construction, and sustainability in design.

📝 Enhancement Note: The portfolio is paramount for this role. Candidates should curate examples that directly address the responsibilities and qualifications, demonstrating not just technical skill but also strategic thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: Essential for native model creation across disciplines (Architecture, Structure, MEP). Expect to manage, review, and potentially contribute to Revit models.

• Autodesk Navisworks Manage: Critical for model aggregation, federated model creation, clash detection, 4D sequencing, and quantification. This will be a core tool for coordination.

• Autodesk BIM 360 / Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC): The cloud platform for collaboration, document management, issue tracking, and project delivery. Proficiency here is key for seamless project execution.

• AutoCAD: Still relevant for 2D drawings and integration with BIM workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Navisworks/ACC: For clash reports, QTOs, and basic progress tracking.

• Synchro / Primavera P6: For 4D planning and scheduling integration.

• Excel / Power BI / Tableau: Potentially used for advanced data analysis, custom reporting, and dashboard creation from BIM data.

CRM & Automation:

• CAFM/CMMS Integration: Understanding how BIM data (e.g., COBie) integrates with facility management systems is a key requirement.

• Dynamo: For parametric design automation and workflow customization within Revit.

• Rhino/Grasshopper: For complex geometric design and analysis, potentially used for specific project elements.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a high degree of technical proficiency across a suite of Autodesk products, with a strong emphasis on collaboration platforms and integration capabilities. Familiarity with scheduling and FM systems is also a significant advantage.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all project dealings and data management.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality outcomes, pushing the boundaries of digital construction.

• Teamwork: Fostering a collaborative environment where diverse expertise is leveraged for collective success.

• Innovation: Embracing new technologies and methodologies to drive efficiency and improve project delivery.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through proactive management and strategic solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with project management, engineering, site teams, and clients to ensure seamless information flow and alignment.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging open feedback on BIM processes and workflows to identify areas for improvement and implement best practices.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting a culture where best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise are shared across teams and projects to foster continuous learning and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: Turner & Townsend's emphasis on "inspired people" and "working in partnership" suggests a culture that values collaboration, expertise, and a shared commitment to project success. The company's global reach also implies an appreciation for diverse perspectives.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Coordinating BIM efforts across a wide range of internal teams, external consultants, subcontractors, and clients, each with potentially varying levels of BIM maturity.

• Data Integrity and Standardization: Ensuring consistent data quality and adherence to standards across numerous models and contributors, especially in a fast-paced construction environment.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Staying abreast of the fast-paced changes in BIM software, digital construction tools, and data management techniques to maintain a competitive edge.

• Bridging Design and Construction: Effectively translating complex digital designs into practical, constructible solutions on-site, ensuring seamless integration between digital models and physical execution.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications in areas like data center BIM, digital twins, or specific Autodesk software advanced functionalities.

• Industry Conferences & Webinars: Participating in events focused on digital construction, data centers, and project management to stay updated on trends and network with peers.

• Internal Training & Mentorship: Leveraging Turner & Townsend's extensive training resources and mentorship programs to develop leadership, technical, and strategic skills.

• Exposure to Global Projects: Gaining experience on diverse international projects to broaden understanding of different construction practices and BIM applications.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges in this role are significant but directly tied to opportunities for professional growth. Overcoming these hurdles will build expertise in high-demand areas of digital construction.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for developing a BIM Execution Plan for a mission-critical data center project. What are the key considerations?" (Focus on tailoring to data center specifics, stakeholder input, and risk mitigation.)

• "How do you approach leading clash detection and coordination meetings? What strategies do you use to ensure active participation and timely resolution?" (Highlight your facilitation skills, use of tools like Navisworks, and conflict resolution techniques.)

• "Walk us through a challenging situation where you had to integrate models from multiple subcontractors with varying BIM capabilities. How did you ensure data integrity and project alignment?" (Prepare a specific, STAR-method-structured example demonstrating problem-solving and collaboration.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Turner & Townsend and our work in data center construction?" (Research recent projects, company values, and align your aspirations with their mission.)

• "How do you contribute to a collaborative team environment, especially when working with diverse groups like engineers, contractors, and clients?" (Provide examples of your communication and interpersonal skills.)

• "How do you measure the success of your BIM initiatives and their impact on project outcomes?" (Be ready to discuss KPIs, ROI, and how you link BIM activities to project performance.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prioritize Data Center Projects: If you have them, lead with these. If not, highlight transferable skills from similar complex infrastructure projects.

• Showcase BEP Development: Have a clear example of a BEP, highlighting its structure, key clauses, and how it guided project execution.

• Demonstrate Clash Resolution: Present a visual case study of a significant clash detected and resolved, detailing the process and the averted cost/delay.

• Highlight Data Handover: Explain your process for COBie data delivery and the creation of digital twins, emphasizing their value for facility management.

• Quantify Impact: For each example, aim to present quantifiable results (e.g., reduction in RFIs, time savings, cost avoidance).

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize your practical BIM application, especially within the context of data center construction. Prepare to articulate your processes, demonstrate your technical command, and showcase your leadership potential.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager, Data Center Construction Projects position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Customize your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your 8-10 years of BIM experience, specifically mentioning any data center or mission-critical project involvement, and lists proficiency in the required software (Revit, Navisworks, ACC).

• Prepare your portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in BIM Execution Plan development, clash detection, model coordination, and data handover. Be ready to present these with a focus on quantifiable results and your specific contributions.

• Research Turner & Townsend: Understand their company values, recent projects, and their approach to digital construction and sustainability. Prepare to articulate why you are a good cultural fit.

• Practice your STAR method responses: Prepare detailed examples for common behavioral questions related to leadership, problem-solving, stakeholder management, and team collaboration.

⚠️ 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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