Design Manager PMC / Data Centre - CSA & MEP Integration

Fuku
Full-timeKuala Lumpur, Malaysia

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (PMC / Data Centre) – CSA & MEP Integration

Company: Fuku

Location: Johor Bahru, Malaysia

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Project Management / Design Coordination (Data Centre Infrastructure)

Date Posted: May 24, 2026

Experience Level: 8-12+ Years (Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Lead and manage the integrated design process for large-scale hyperscale data center campuses, focusing on Civil, Structural, Architectural (CSA), and Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems.

  • Act as a pivotal liaison between global clients, design consultancies, and construction contractors to ensure seamless project execution and stakeholder alignment.

  • Drive technical constructability reviews and resolve complex design clashes utilizing advanced BIM and Navisworks technologies.

  • Oversee and expedite local authority permitting workflows to ensure timely acquisition of building clearances and the final Certificate of Completion and Compliance (CCC).

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the technical integrity and timely delivery of complex data center projects. The emphasis on integration between CSA and MEP systems, coupled with local authority compliance, highlights the need for a candidate with deep technical expertise and strong stakeholder management capabilities within the Malaysian construction and regulatory landscape. The contract nature and quick start date suggest an immediate need for experienced professionals.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

  • Integrated Design Management: Lead the coordination of CSA and MEP design disciplines, ensuring all components are integrated cohesively and meet project specifications.

  • Stakeholder Liaison: Serve as the primary point of contact, managing communication and expectations between international clients, engineering consultants, and contractors.

  • Technical Reviews: Conduct rigorous constructability assessments and technical design reviews to identify potential issues and ensure feasibility and efficiency.

  • Clash Detection & Resolution: Utilize BIM and Navisworks to proactively identify, analyze, and resolve complex layout clashes and interdisciplinary conflicts.

  • Permitting & Compliance: Manage the end-to-end process for obtaining necessary permits and approvals from local authorities such as TNB, DOSH, and BOMBA, culminating in the final CCC.

  • Design Lifecycle Management: Oversee the entire design process from conception through to construction documentation and as-built stages.

  • Contractual Interface Management: Effectively manage the interfaces and contractual obligations between various consultants and contractors involved in the project.

  • Risk Mitigation: Proactively identify design-related risks and develop mitigation strategies to safeguard project timelines and budgets.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities emphasize a hands-on approach to design coordination and problem-solving, particularly in resolving complex clashes and navigating local regulatory frameworks. The role requires a proactive manager who can bridge technical gaps and ensure alignment across diverse project stakeholders.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, or Structural), Architecture, or a related technical field.

Experience:

  • 8 to 12+ years of progressive experience in technical design management, multi-disciplinary coordination, or project engineering for heavy industrial, utility, or mission-critical data center projects.

  • Demonstrated experience in managing the complete design lifecycle for complex construction projects.

  • Proven track record of successfully managing interfaces between multiple consultants and contractors.

Required Skills:

  • Design Management: Expertise in overseeing and integrating CSA and MEP designs within large-scale projects.

  • BIM & Navisworks Proficiency: Strong practical skills in using BIM software for design coordination and Navisworks for clash detection and 4D/5D planning.

  • Constructability Analysis: Ability to conduct thorough reviews to ensure designs are practical for construction.

  • Malaysian Regulatory Knowledge: In-depth understanding of Malaysian Uniform Building By-Laws (UBBL) and local statutory submission processes for authorities like TNB, DOSH, and BOMBA.

  • Stakeholder Management: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively manage relationships with clients, consultants, and contractors.

  • MEP & Structural Integration: Deep knowledge of how MEP systems interface with structural and architectural elements in critical facilities.

  • Project Coordination: Proven ability to manage complex project schedules and coordinate diverse teams.

Preferred Skills:

  • Data Centre Specific Experience: Prior experience in hyperscale or mission-critical data center design and construction.

  • Contract Management: Understanding of contract terms and conditions relevant to consulting and construction engagements.

  • Cost Management: Familiarity with cost implications of design decisions and value engineering principles.

  • Sustainability Standards: Knowledge of green building principles and certifications (LEED, GBIF).

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirements emphasize a blend of technical design leadership, practical BIM/Navisworks application, and a critical understanding of the Malaysian regulatory environment. The preference for experience with top-tier firms and certifications like PMP suggests the company values structured project management and professional development.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Design Coordination Case Studies: Showcase examples of integrated CSA and MEP design coordination, highlighting how complex interfaces were managed and resolved.

  • Clash Resolution Examples: Present specific instances where BIM/Navisworks was used to identify and resolve significant design clashes, demonstrating the impact on project efficiency and cost.

  • Permitting Process Management: Document experience in navigating local authority submission processes, including examples of successful permit applications and CCC acquisition for significant projects.

  • Constructability Review Outcomes: Provide evidence of constructability reviews conducted, detailing how identified issues were addressed in the design and the benefits realized.

  • Project Lifecycle Documentation: Include examples of design documentation developed or managed across different project phases, from conceptual design to construction-ready plans.

Process Documentation:

  • Workflow Design & Optimization: Demonstrate experience in designing, documenting, and optimizing workflows for design coordination, review, and approval processes.

  • Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs): Showcase development or adherence to SOPs for technical reviews, clash detection, and stakeholder communication.

  • Metrics & Reporting: Illustrate how design progress, clash resolution status, and permitting milestones were tracked and reported to stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present tangible evidence of their design management and coordination capabilities. The portfolio should clearly articulate their role in process improvement and successful project outcomes, particularly concerning integrated systems and regulatory compliance within the Malaysian context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

  • Contractual Role: 1-year contract, extendable, providing focused project engagement.

  • Project Exposure: Opportunity to work on advanced hyperscale data center campuses with a leading global consultancy.

  • Mentorship: Direct reporting to a Project Director with over 20 years of industry experience.

  • Growth Potential: Potential for contract extension based on project needs and performance.

  • Professional Development: Exposure to complex technical challenges and diverse international project teams.

Working Hours:

  • Standard full-time working hours are expected, likely aligning with typical business hours in Malaysia (e.g., 9 AM to 6 PM, Monday to Friday). However, the nature of project management may require flexibility to meet critical deadlines and attend site or client meetings, potentially including occasional off-hours or weekend work.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is derived from research into similar roles in Kuala Lumpur and Johor Bahru for experienced Design Managers in construction and engineering, considering the specialized data center focus and contract nature. Benefits are highlighted to reflect the value proposition of the role beyond base compensation, emphasizing the learning and career development aspects.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Project Management Consultancy (PMC) within the Data Centre and Mission-Critical Infrastructure sector.

Company Size: Fuku is described as a privately owned Project Management Consultancy with a 12-year record of commercial success, implying a stable yet potentially agile organizational structure. The "flat local structure" suggests an environment that values direct contribution and minimizes bureaucracy.

Founded: Founded 12 years ago, indicating a mature consultancy with established processes and client relationships.

Team Structure:

  • Project-Centric: The team operates on a project-by-project basis, with individuals assigned to specific data center campus developments.

  • Expert Leadership: Direct reporting to a highly experienced Project Director specializing in the industry.

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Collaboration with a diverse, multi-national management team and various engineering consultancies and tier-1 contractors.

  • Agile Execution: Emphasis on agile design execution, prioritizing efficiency and responsiveness over rigid corporate hierarchies.

Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Coordination: Leveraging BIM and Navisworks for precise design integration and clash detection.

  • Agile Project Management: Applying agile principles to design execution for rapid adaptation and efficient problem-solving.

  • Client-Centric Approach: Acting as a strategic partner to global technology hyper-scalers, ensuring alignment with their unique requirements.

  • Local Expertise Integration: Combining global best practices with in-depth knowledge of local Malaysian regulations and construction practices.

Company Website: eatfuku.com (Implied from domain_derived)

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of global expertise and local agility. The emphasis on a flat structure and agile execution suggests a dynamic work environment where experienced professionals can make a significant impact directly.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is positioned at a Senior/Lead level within the Design Management and Project Coordination spectrum. It requires significant autonomy, technical depth, and the ability to manage complex, multi-disciplinary interfaces. The focus is on delivering specific project outcomes rather than managing a large team directly.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will report directly to a Project Director, indicating a senior level of oversight and guidance. This structure allows for direct mentorship and strategic alignment.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is crucial in ensuring the technical feasibility, constructability, and compliance of data center designs. Their success directly impacts project timelines, budget adherence, and the overall quality and operational readiness of the data center facilities, thereby contributing significantly to the client's business objectives.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Contract Extension/Full-Time Conversion: Successful performance on this contract may lead to extensions or opportunities for full-time roles within Fuku or its associated projects.

  • Project Leadership: Gaining experience on hyperscale data center projects with a premier global consultancy can significantly enhance marketability for future senior roles.

  • Specialization Deepening: Opportunity to deepen expertise in critical infrastructure design, MEP/CSA integration, and complex permitting processes specific to the data center industry.

  • Mentorship and Skill Development: Direct mentorship from an industry veteran provides invaluable learning opportunities and career guidance.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this is a contract role, the emphasis on complex projects and direct leadership mentorship offers substantial career development. The growth potential lies in gaining specialized, high-demand experience within the critical infrastructure sector.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in Johor Bahru and is described as "On-site," implying a primary work location within a project office or potentially a Fuku branch office. Given the nature of PMC roles, there might be a mix of office-based work and site visits.

Office Location(s): Johor Bahru, Malaysia. This location is strategic for managing projects in the southern region of Malaysia, potentially with proximity to key industrial zones or data center development areas.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Hub: Likely to be a dynamic workspace where design teams, project managers, and client representatives collaborate closely.

  • Technology-Enabled: Access to necessary design software (BIM, Navisworks) and communication tools to facilitate integrated design processes.

  • Project-Focused: The environment will be geared towards achieving project milestones, with a strong emphasis on technical coordination and problem-solving.

Work Schedule: Primarily full-time business hours (e.g., 9 AM - 6 PM, Monday to Friday) are expected. However, project demands, client meetings, or site inspections may require flexibility, including occasional extended hours or weekend work to meet critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is expected to be fast-paced and project-driven, typical of PMC operations in the construction sector. The emphasis on collaboration and technical tools is key for successful integrated design management.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: CV and LinkedIn profile review to assess alignment with experience and skills requirements.

  • Recruiter Call: An initial discussion with the recruiter to provide more information about the role, company, and project, and to gauge candidate interest and basic qualifications.

  • Technical Interview: A detailed discussion with the Project Director or senior technical team members focusing on design management experience, technical expertise (CSA/MEP integration, BIM/Navisworks), knowledge of Malaysian codes (UBBL), and problem-solving skills.

  • Case Study/Portfolio Presentation: Candidates may be asked to present specific examples from their portfolio showcasing their approach to design coordination, clash resolution, or permitting processes.

  • Final Interview: Potentially a final discussion to assess cultural fit, communication style, and confirm overall suitability for the contract role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight Integration: Emphasize your role in integrating CSA and MEP systems, detailing the challenges and your solutions.

  • Quantify Impact: Use metrics where possible to demonstrate the value of your contributions, e.g., number of clashes resolved, time saved through constructability reviews, or successful permit acquisition timelines.

  • Showcase Local Expertise: Clearly present your understanding and application of Malaysian UBBL codes and local authority processes.

  • Structure for Clarity: Organize your portfolio logically, perhaps by project type or by key responsibility area, ensuring easy navigation and quick understanding of your capabilities.

  • Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the technical intricacies of your past projects and how you applied BIM/Navisworks in practice.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Design Clashes: Be prepared to discuss hypothetical or real-world scenarios of complex MEP/structural clashes and how you would approach resolving them.

  • Permitting Scenarios: Anticipate questions about navigating challenging permitting situations with local authorities in Malaysia.

  • Stakeholder Conflict Resolution: Think about how you would manage disagreements or conflicting priorities between clients, consultants, and contractors.

📝 Enhancement Note: The application process emphasizes a direct engagement with the hiring manager and a thorough review of practical experience. Candidates should be prepared to articulate their technical expertise and demonstrate their problem-solving capabilities with concrete examples from their portfolio.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • BIM Software: Proficiency in using BIM platforms (e.g., Revit, ArchiCAD) for design modeling and coordination.

  • Navisworks: Essential for clash detection, 4D/5D simulation, and integrated model review.

  • Project Management Software: Familiarity with standard PM tools for scheduling and task management (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Data Visualization Tools: Ability to interpret and potentially contribute to dashboards for tracking design progress, clash status, and permit milestones.

  • Reporting Software: Proficiency in generating reports using standard office suites (e.g., Microsoft Office Suite - Excel, Word, PowerPoint).

CRM & Automation:

Integration Tools:

  • Understanding of how different design and project management tools can interface or exchange data, particularly within a BIM workflow.

📝 Enhancement Note: The core technical requirements revolve around BIM and Navisworks for design coordination. Familiarity with standard project management and reporting tools is also expected, reflecting the integrated nature of the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Technical Excellence: A commitment to high-quality design, rigorous review processes, and accurate integration of systems.

  • Efficiency and Agility: Prioritizing fast, responsive project execution and problem-solving, minimizing bureaucratic delays.

  • Collaboration: Fostering a team environment where open communication and mutual support are key to overcoming complex challenges.

  • Integrity and Compliance: Adhering to all relevant building codes, regulations, and ethical standards in design and project management.

  • Client Focus: Acting as a trusted partner to hyper-scalers, ensuring their strategic objectives are met.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Encouraging seamless collaboration between CSA, MEP, architectural, and construction teams.

  • Proactive Communication: Maintaining transparent and frequent communication channels with all stakeholders.

  • Constructive Feedback: A culture that encourages the exchange of feedback to drive continuous improvement in design and processes.

  • Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices and lessons learned across projects and teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture values technical proficiency, speed, and collaborative problem-solving, particularly within the demanding environment of data center development.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Complex Site Constraints: Navigating the integration of CSA and MEP systems within potentially challenging site conditions typical of large-scale industrial developments.

  • Regulatory Hurdles: Successfully managing diverse and potentially evolving local authority requirements for permits and approvals.

  • Global Client Expectations: Meeting the high standards and specific technical demands of international hyper-scale clients.

  • Coordination Across Disciplines: Ensuring seamless integration and avoiding conflicts between numerous specialized design consultants and contractors.

  • Fast-Paced Project Environment: Adapting to tight project timelines and the need for rapid decision-making.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Specialized Data Centre Expertise: Deepening knowledge in hyperscale data center design, critical infrastructure, and associated technologies.

  • Advanced BIM/Navisworks Application: Enhancing skills in utilizing these tools for complex coordination and project visualization.

  • Malaysian Construction Law & Permitting: Gaining extensive practical experience with local building codes and statutory processes.

  • Project Leadership Skills: Developing leadership capabilities in managing multi-disciplinary teams and high-stakes projects under senior mentorship.

  • Cross-Cultural Project Management: Working with a diverse, international client base and project teams.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to large-scale critical infrastructure projects. The growth opportunities are strongly tied to acquiring specialized, in-demand technical expertise and practical experience in a high-stakes environment.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "Describe a time you managed a complex integration challenge between MEP and structural systems on a large project. What was your approach, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on process, technical problem-solving, and impact.)

  • "How would you approach securing building permits from multiple Malaysian authorities (TNB, DOSH, BOMBA) for a hyperscale data center campus, given potential delays or complexities?" (Assess knowledge of local regulations and proactive strategies.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "What interests you about Fuku and this specific role as a Design Manager for data centers in Malaysia, especially considering it's a contract position?" (Assess motivation, research, and alignment with company values.)

  • "How do you adapt to a flat organizational structure and an agile project execution methodology?" (Gauge comfort with dynamic, less bureaucratic environments.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Contextualize Your Role: Clearly define your specific responsibilities and contributions within each project presented.

  • Focus on Integration & Resolution: Highlight examples where you successfully integrated CSA and MEP designs or resolved significant clashes and complex issues.

  • Demonstrate Local Expertise: Showcase your understanding and application of Malaysian UBBL codes and permitting processes with specific project examples.

  • Quantify Results: Use data and metrics to illustrate the positive impact of your work (e.g., time saved, cost avoidance, successful permit acquisition).

  • Prepare for Technical Questions: Be ready to elaborate on the technical details of your presented projects and your decision-making process.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing practical experience, technical acumen, and a strong understanding of the Malaysian construction and regulatory landscape. Candidates should be ready to articulate their problem-solving approach with specific, quantifiable examples.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Click the "apply" button on the Workable platform to submit your CV, LinkedIn profile, or any relevant information.

  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your CV and any supporting documents to highlight your experience in design management, CSA/MEP integration, BIM/Navisworks, and knowledge of Malaysian building codes (UBBL). Emphasize projects similar to hyperscale data centers or heavy industrial facilities.

  • Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly details your 8-12+ years of relevant experience, specifying your roles in technical design management, multi-disciplinary coordination, and stakeholder liaison. Quantify achievements where possible.

  • Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience with specific case studies related to design integration, clash resolution, constructability reviews, and navigating local permitting processes. Be ready to discuss your approach to stakeholder management in a complex project environment.

  • Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Fuku's work in the data center sector and its emphasis on agile execution. Understand the importance of local regulatory compliance in Malaysia for this role.

⚠️ 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.

Application Requirements

Requires 8 to 12+ years of experience in technical design management for mission-critical data centers or heavy industrial projects. Must have in-depth knowledge of Malaysian UBBL codes and possess valid work rights in Malaysia.