Design Manager (Data Centers)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Data Centers)

Company: AECOM

Location: Bogota, Colombia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Design & Management (Data Centers)

Date Posted: August 10, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end design process for colocation and hyper-scale data center projects, encompassing site due diligence, campus planning, and detailed design through construction administration.

• Manage and mentor a team of design professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performance environment within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities division.

• Develop and execute multi-site project and program management plans, ensuring consistent quality, budget adherence, and schedule compliance across diverse data center initiatives.

• Drive the technical and financial proposal development process for new data center design projects and existing facility modifications.

• Serve as a key client liaison, building strong relationships and proactively communicating project status, risks, and solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong blend of technical design expertise in data center infrastructure and robust project/program management skills. The emphasis on "Enterprise Capabilities" suggests a focus on repeatable processes and scalable solutions for multiple clients or projects, common in large consulting firms like AECOM. The need for both Spanish and English communication highlights the international scope of AECOM's data center projects.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the full lifecycle of data center design projects, including civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, and fire protection systems for both greenfield developments and existing facility upgrades (add/move/change projects).

• Identify, onboard, and manage external design resources as needed to supplement AECOM's internal capabilities, ensuring project staffing aligns with execution needs.

• Establish and enforce rigorous quality assurance processes, including peer reviews and checks, to ensure designs meet client specifications and AECOM's stringent standards.

• Maintain responsibility for the project's Basis of Design (BOD) and lead the localization process to adapt designs for specific regional requirements and regulations.

• Implement and manage a systematic process for identifying, tracking, and resolving scope changes, design errors, and inconsistencies throughout the project lifecycle.

• Conduct and attend crucial meetings with clients, external stakeholders, and regulatory bodies to present designs, gather feedback, and address concerns.

• Proactively manage and communicate project changes, risks, and issues to all stakeholders, both internally within AECOM and externally with clients.

• Develop compelling technical and financial proposals for new business opportunities, accurately reflecting project scope, resource requirements, and AECOM's capabilities.

• Cultivate and nurture trusting, long-term relationships with key client stakeholders, serving as a reliable point of contact and trusted advisor.

• Oversee the preparation and management of essential project administration documents, ensuring compliance and proper record-keeping.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a senior-level role demanding leadership, strategic planning, and hands-on project oversight. The emphasis on "repeatable quality" and "multi-site project and program management plans" suggests a need for process standardization and efficiency, critical for large-scale data center deployments.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

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

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

• PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification is preferred.

• Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Professional certification is preferred. Experience:

• A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience in data center design and/or project management, or demonstrated equivalent experience and/or education.

• Eight (8) years specifically in colocation and/or hyper-scale data center design management and engineering is preferred.

• Demonstrated experience in leading and managing complex, multi-disciplinary design projects from concept to completion.

• Proven track record of managing project budgets and schedules effectively. Required Skills:

• Expertise in data center core and shell design principles and systems (civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, fire protection).

• Strong project management skills, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closing.

• Proficient in site due diligence and campus planning for critical infrastructure.

• Experience with construction documents and construction administration phases.

• Ability to manage and develop design resources, fostering teamwork and accountability.

• Excellent stakeholder management and client relationship-building capabilities.

• Proficiency in developing and presenting technical and financial proposals.

• Exceptional communication skills in both Spanish and English (written and oral), with the ability to engage diverse audiences.

• Active or recent leadership involvement in data center and mission-critical trade organizations. Preferred Skills:

• In-depth knowledge of hyper-scale and colocation data center specific requirements.

• Familiarity with Uptime Institute Tiers and their implications for design and operations.

• Experience working with international design standards and regulations.

• Ability to thrive in dynamic, time-sensitive situations with minimal oversight.

• Demonstrated ability to proactively identify and solve complex problems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The combination of a technical degree and extensive experience in data center design management is paramount. The preferred qualifications, such as PMP and Uptime Institute accreditation, signal a desire for candidates who possess industry-recognized credentials that validate their expertise in mission-critical facilities. The explicit requirement for Spanish and English proficiency is a critical filter for this role in Bogota.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of three (3) complex data center design projects (colocation or hyper-scale) managed from inception through construction documentation.

• For each project, clearly articulate your specific role, responsibilities, and the scale of the project (e.g., square footage, MW capacity).

• Provide evidence of successful budget and schedule management, including specific metrics or outcomes where possible.

• Demonstrate experience with site due diligence, campus planning, and the integration of various engineering disciplines (MEP, structural, civil, fire protection, security).

• Include examples of how you've managed design resources, both internal and external, to achieve project objectives. Process Documentation:

• Be prepared to discuss your systematic approach to managing the design process, including:

  • Workflow design and optimization for multi-site data center rollouts.

  • Methods for ensuring design quality, consistency, and compliance with client standards.

  • Strategies for proactive scope change management and issue resolution.

  • Techniques for effective stakeholder communication and reporting throughout the design lifecycle.

  • Your approach to developing and reviewing Basis of Design (BOD) documents and localization efforts.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a Design Manager role, the portfolio is critical. It should not only highlight completed projects but also demonstrate a systematic, process-driven approach to managing complex design initiatives. Candidates should be ready to present case studies that exemplify their leadership, problem-solving, and ability to deliver on-time and within budget.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

While a specific salary range is not provided, based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 8+ years of experience in data center design and project management in Bogota, Colombia, the estimated annual salary would likely fall between $70,000,000 COP and $120,000,000 COP. This estimate considers the cost of living in Bogota, the specialized nature of data center design, and AECOM's standing as a global infrastructure firm.

Benefits:

AECOM offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance.

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

• Disability benefits.

• Paid Time Off (PTO) and various Leaves of Absence.

• Voluntary benefits to supplement core offerings.

• Flexible work options (though this role is on-site).

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

• Business travel insurance.

• Service recognition awards.

• Retirement savings plan.

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

The standard working hours for this full-time, on-site position are approximately 40 hours per week, aligning with typical business operations in Bogota.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for similar roles in Bogota and general industry compensation trends for experienced engineering and design management professionals. The extensive list of benefits provided by AECOM is a significant draw for candidates. The role is explicitly on-site, which is a key consideration for work-life balance.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting sectors, focusing on global infrastructure development. Their expertise spans transportation, buildings, water, environment, and energy. The "Data Centers" business group (DCS) indicates a specialized unit dedicated to this critical and rapidly growing market segment.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 company with over 50,000 employees globally. This large scale offers stability, vast resources, and opportunities for diverse project involvement. For operations professionals, it means working within established frameworks and potentially large, complex organizational structures.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, bringing over a century of experience in delivering infrastructure projects worldwide. This long history suggests a stable, established organization with deep expertise and a strong commitment to long-term client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will be part of AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities division, likely within the DCS (Data Centers) business line. This implies a team with specialized expertise in data center design and engineering, potentially including architects, MEP engineers, structural engineers, and commissioning specialists.

• The reporting structure is likely to involve reporting to a higher-level director or vice president within the Data Center division, while directly managing project design teams.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, working closely with project managers, construction teams, clients, vendors, and potentially other AECOM business lines (e.g., energy, buildings). Methodology:

• AECOM's methodology likely emphasizes data-driven decision-making, leveraging analytics for project planning, risk assessment, and performance monitoring.

• Workflow planning and optimization are key, especially within the Enterprise Capabilities unit, aiming for standardized, repeatable processes for efficiency and quality across multiple projects.

• Automation and efficiency practices are increasingly important in the infrastructure sector, and AECOM likely employs various digital tools and strategies to streamline design, documentation, and collaboration processes.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's vast global presence and extensive experience in infrastructure development provide a strong foundation for a career in data center design. The "Enterprise Capabilities" aspect suggests a focus on scalable solutions and process standardization, which is highly relevant for operations and project management roles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a senior management level, typically requiring 8+ years of specialized experience. It represents a significant step beyond individual contributor or junior project management roles, demanding leadership, strategic thinking, and accountability for project outcomes. It’s a key position within the data center design vertical.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report to senior leadership within AECOM's Data Center business group, likely a Director or VP of Design/Engineering. They will, in turn, lead and manage teams of architects, engineers, and designers working on specific projects. This structure emphasizes mentorship and team development.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's work directly influences the successful delivery of data center projects, which are critical for clients' IT infrastructure and business operations. Effective design management ensures facilities are reliable, efficient, scalable, and cost-effective, directly impacting client satisfaction, project profitability, and AECOM's reputation in the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in specific data center technologies, such as advanced cooling systems, power distribution, or hyperscale design principles.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to higher management roles, such as Director of Design, VP of Engineering, or Program Director for large-scale data center portfolios.

• Broader Project Scope: Take on management of larger, more complex, or geographically diverse data center programs.

• Business Development: Transition into roles focused on client acquisition, proposal management, and strategic business growth within the data center sector.

• Cross-Disciplinary Experience: Gain exposure to other AECOM business lines, potentially leading to roles in broader infrastructure project management.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical stepping stone for experienced data center design professionals looking to move into leadership. The growth opportunities are substantial, leveraging AECOM's global reach and diverse project portfolio.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as "On-Site," meaning the Design Manager will be based at AECOM's office in Bogota, Colombia. This implies a professional office setting conducive to collaboration and focused work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Bogota, Colombia, with a specific address mentioned as Carrera 11 #. This central location in the capital city likely offers good accessibility.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment will likely foster collaboration, with opportunities to interact regularly with fellow design professionals, project managers, and other specialists within AECOM.

• Access to standard office technology, design software, and communication tools is expected. While specific AECOM proprietary systems are not detailed, a large firm typically invests in robust technological infrastructure.

• The work schedule will involve regular team meetings, client interactions, and potentially site visits, requiring a balance of focused individual work and collaborative engagement.

Work Schedule: This is a full-time, on-site position. While standard business hours (approximately 40 hours per week) are expected, the dynamic nature of project management in the data center industry may require flexibility to meet critical deadlines or client needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "On-Site" designation is crucial. While some flexibility might exist, the core expectation is consistent presence at the Bogota office. This environment is designed for structured work and team collaboration, typical of a large engineering consultancy.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will likely conduct an initial phone screen to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior leader in the Data Center division) to delve deeper into technical expertise, project management experience, and leadership approach.

• Technical/Design Review: A session focused on reviewing your portfolio. Be prepared to walk through 2-3 key data center projects, detailing your role, challenges, solutions, and outcomes. Expect questions about your design methodologies, problem-solving skills, and understanding of data center infrastructure.

• Team/Peer Interviews: Meetings with potential team members or peers to assess collaboration style, communication skills, and how you would integrate into the existing team dynamic.

• Final Interview: Potentially a final interview with a higher-level executive to discuss strategic alignment, long-term vision, and overall fit with AECOM's goals.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your experience with colocation/hyper-scale data centers, your leadership capabilities, and your ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary designs.

• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., projects completed on time/budget, cost savings achieved, efficiency improvements implemented).

• Highlight Process: Explain your design process, how you ensure quality, manage changes, and collaborate with teams. Use diagrams or flowcharts if helpful.

• Tailor to AECOM: Understand AECOM's values and their approach to data center design. Frame your experience in a way that aligns with their stated goals and methodologies.

• Be Prepared for Technical Depth: Expect questions about specific engineering challenges, design decisions, and industry best practices.

Challenge Preparation:

• Case Study Discussion: Be ready to discuss how you would approach a hypothetical data center design challenge. This might involve site selection, capacity planning, or resolving a design conflict.

• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Prepare to articulate your approach to common data center design issues, such as power redundancy, cooling efficiency, or space utilization.

• Leadership Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing team conflicts, motivating design professionals, or handling difficult client conversations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize both technical design acumen and project/people management skills. A well-prepared, quantified portfolio that demonstrates a structured approach to design management is essential for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD Software: Proficiency with industry-standard CAD software such as AutoCAD, Revit, or similar platforms for architectural and engineering design.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, or Jira for project planning, scheduling, and tracking.

• BIM (Building Information Modeling): Familiarity with BIM workflows and software, particularly Revit, is increasingly important for integrated design and collaboration.

• Data Center Design Tools: Potential exposure to specialized simulation or modeling software for power, cooling, or airflow analysis (e.g., HAP, IES VE, CFD software).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel for data analysis, financial modeling, and reporting. PowerPoint for presentations.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Familiarity with BI platforms like Tableau or Power BI for creating dashboards and visualizing project performance data is a plus.

• Data Analysis: Ability to interpret project data, performance metrics, and financial reports to inform decision-making.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: While not directly a sales role, understanding how CRM data (e.g., Salesforce) feeds into project requirements or client management is beneficial.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing and managing project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex).

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, a Design Manager in this field must be adept with standard design software (CAD/BIM) and project management tools. The ability to leverage data for analysis and reporting is also a key differentiator.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Execution: A commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and efficient data center designs that meet or exceed client expectations.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Fostering an environment where diverse technical disciplines work together seamlessly, sharing knowledge and supporting each other to achieve common project goals.

• Integrity and Professionalism: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all client interactions, project dealings, and internal communications.

• Innovation and Continuous Improvement: Encouraging new ideas and approaches to design challenges, and actively seeking ways to optimize processes and outcomes.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and meeting client needs, building trust, and delivering value through responsive service and impactful solutions.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: AECOM emphasizes integrating various engineering disciplines and project management functions to create cohesive design solutions. Expect a collaborative approach where different teams actively contribute and communicate.

• Process Review Culture: A likely culture of reviewing and refining design processes to ensure efficiency, quality, and adherence to best practices. Feedback exchange is key to this.

• Knowledge Sharing: Encouraging team members to share expertise, lessons learned, and innovative solutions across projects and disciplines to foster collective growth and organizational learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture likely mirrors that of large, reputable engineering firms: a strong emphasis on technical excellence, collaboration, and client satisfaction. The "Enterprise Capabilities" aspect further suggests a focus on standardized, efficient processes and continuous improvement.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholder Expectations: Balancing the needs and demands of clients, internal AECOM leadership, regulatory bodies, and design teams can be complex.

• Rapid Technological Advancements: The data center industry evolves quickly; staying abreast of new technologies in power, cooling, and IT infrastructure requires continuous learning.

• Global Design Standards vs. Localization: Adapting designs to meet varying local codes, environmental conditions, and supply chain realities across different regions presents a significant challenge.

• Resource Management: Effectively sourcing, managing, and retaining skilled design talent in a competitive market can be demanding.

• Project Complexity: Leading large-scale, multi-disciplinary data center projects requires meticulous planning, execution, and risk management.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Design Certifications: Pursuing certifications like Uptime Institute's Accredited Tier Designer (ATD) or specialized sustainability credentials.

• Leadership and Management Training: AECOM likely offers extensive programs to enhance leadership, project management, and strategic planning skills.

• Industry Conferences and Seminars: Opportunities to attend leading data center and infrastructure conferences to network and learn about emerging trends.

• Mentorship Programs: Access to senior leaders within AECOM for guidance on career progression and skill development.

• Exposure to Global Projects: Working on diverse international projects provides invaluable experience and broadens professional perspectives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to large-scale infrastructure projects in a dynamic sector. AECOM's commitment to employee development provides excellent pathways to overcome these challenges and advance a career in data center design management.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your process for managing the design lifecycle of a hyper-scale data center, from initial site selection to construction documentation. What are the critical checkpoints?"

• "How do you ensure consistency and quality across multiple data center design projects managed by different teams or individuals?"

• "Walk us through a time you had to resolve a significant design conflict between mechanical and electrical engineering teams. What was your approach and the outcome?"

• "How do you approach developing a technical and financial proposal for a large data center project? What key elements do you focus on?" Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's role in the global data center market? How do you see your skills contributing to our success?"

• "Describe your ideal team environment for a data center design team. How do you foster collaboration and accountability?"

• "How do you stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the data center industry?"

• "AECOM emphasizes delivering a better world. How does your work on data centers contribute to this mission?" Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure: For each project, use a clear narrative: Project Overview (client, type, scale), Your Role & Responsibilities, Key Challenges, Design Solutions Implemented, Project Outcomes (budget, schedule, performance), and Lessons Learned.

• Visuals: Use high-quality diagrams, renderings, or floor plans to illustrate your points. Avoid overwhelming slides with text.

• Quantify: Emphasize quantifiable achievements (e.g., "Reduced cooling energy consumption by 15%," "Delivered project 2 months ahead of schedule").

• Focus on Leadership: Highlight your leadership in guiding teams, managing stakeholders, and making critical design decisions.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate questions about specific technical decisions, trade-offs made, and your rationale behind them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Be prepared to discuss your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. For technical questions, be precise and demonstrate a thorough understanding of data center design principles and project management best practices.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager position at AECOM:

• Submit your application through the provided link on SmartRecruiters.

• Resume Optimization: Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience in data center design management, colocation/hyper-scale projects, and proficiency in relevant engineering disciplines (MEP, structural, civil). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Portfolio Preparation: Curate a digital portfolio (PDF or secure link) showcasing 2-3 of your most relevant data center design projects. Ensure it clearly outlines your role, responsibilities, project scale, challenges, solutions, and outcomes.

• Interview Practice: Rehearse answers to common interview questions related to design management, project leadership, technical expertise, and problem-solving. Practice articulating your portfolio projects concisely and effectively.

• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's mission, values, recent projects, and their approach to data center infrastructure. Understand their commitment to "delivering a better world."

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with AECOM through their official application channels before making application decisions. Ensure your application materials are tailored to the specific requirements of this role and AECOM's organizational context.