Electrical Design Manager
π Job Overview
Job Title: Electrical Design Manager
Company: DayOne
Location: Madrid, Community of Madrid, Spain
Job Type: Full time
Category: Engineering / Operations Management
Date Posted: 2026-07-28
Experience Level: 10+ years
Remote Status: On-site
π Role Summary
-
Oversees and manages all aspects of electrical design for high-performance data center projects, ensuring robust and reliable power infrastructure.
-
Leads the technical design process for critical electrical systems, including power distribution, backup power solutions (UPS, generators), and lighting.
-
Coordinates effectively with project managers, engineers, contractors, and clients to integrate electrical designs within overall project timelines and specifications.
-
Ensures strict adherence to industry codes, regulatory requirements (NEC, IEC, local standards), and client-specific needs for all electrical implementations.
-
Drives quality assurance and problem-solving initiatives to guarantee the accuracy, feasibility, and reliability of electrical systems, minimizing project risks.
π Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior engineering management position within the data center infrastructure domain, requiring a blend of deep technical expertise in electrical systems and strong project oversight capabilities. The focus on "high-performance data centers" and "global data infrastructure" indicates a strategic importance for this role in DayOne's expansion efforts.
π Primary Responsibilities
-
Electrical Design Leadership: Direct and manage the end-to-end electrical design lifecycle for data center facilities, encompassing conceptualization through to detailed engineering.
-
Power Systems Management: Oversee the design and implementation of comprehensive power distribution networks, including high-voltage and low-voltage systems, ensuring redundancy and efficiency.
-
Backup Power Strategy: Lead the specification, integration, and testing of Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems and emergency generator solutions to guarantee continuous operation during power outages.
-
Cross-Disciplinary Integration: Collaborate closely with mechanical, structural, and IT engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of electrical infrastructure with other building systems and data center operations.
-
Technical Specification Development: Author and review detailed technical specifications, drawings, schematics, and reports for electrical equipment, systems, and installations.
-
Code Compliance and Standards Enforcement: Ensure all electrical designs and installations rigorously adhere to international (IEC), national (NEC), and local electrical codes, safety regulations, and industry best practices.
-
Design Review and Validation: Conduct thorough design reviews at various project stages, identifying potential issues, proposing solutions, and validating design integrity and feasibility.
-
Vendor and Equipment Selection: Manage the vendor selection process for electrical equipment, ensuring procured components meet design specifications, quality standards, and project budgets.
-
Site Implementation Support: Provide expert technical support during the construction and commissioning phases, troubleshooting electrical issues and ensuring designs are implemented as intended.
-
Documentation and Record Keeping: Maintain accurate and complete design documentation, project records, and as-built drawings for all electrical systems.
π Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a hands-on management role that requires deep technical knowledge of data center electrical systems, coupled with project execution and stakeholder management skills. Emphasis on "robust, reliable, and efficient" systems points towards a need for design optimization and risk mitigation.
π Skills & Qualifications
Education:
-
Bachelorβs degree in Electrical Engineering or a closely related technical field.
-
A Masterβs degree in Electrical Engineering or a related discipline is considered advantageous. Experience:
-
A minimum of 8-10 years of progressive experience in electrical engineering, with a significant portion dedicated to the design and management of electrical systems for data centers or similar mission-critical infrastructure environments. Required Skills:
-
Electrical System Design Expertise: Comprehensive understanding of power distribution, load calculations, single-line diagrams, protective relaying, and grounding systems.
-
Data Center Power Solutions: In-depth knowledge of UPS systems, emergency generators, automatic transfer switches (ATS), PDU (Power Distribution Unit) design, and critical power infrastructure.
-
Industry Standards & Codes: Proficient knowledge of National Electrical Code (NEC), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards, and relevant local electrical regulations in Europe.
-
Project Management & Coordination: Proven ability to manage complex electrical design projects, coordinate multidisciplinary teams, and adhere to project schedules and budgets.
-
Technical Leadership & Problem-Solving: Demonstrated capacity to provide technical guidance, lead design reviews, and effectively resolve complex electrical engineering challenges.
-
Vendor Management & Procurement: Experience in specifying, evaluating, and coordinating with vendors for electrical equipment selection and procurement.
-
Documentation Proficiency: Ability to prepare and review high-quality technical specifications, engineering drawings, and project reports.
-
Software Proficiency: Familiarity with electrical design and analysis software (e.g., AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP, ETAP, SKM PowerTools) is essential.
Preferred Skills:
-
Professional Engineer (PE) License: A valid PE license or equivalent professional engineering certification in a relevant jurisdiction.
-
Bilingual Proficiency: Fluency in English and at least one other European language (e.g., Spanish, Finnish) to facilitate communication with international teams and stakeholders.
-
Data Center Design Principles: Familiarity with data center cooling systems, fire suppression, and building management systems (BMS) from an electrical integration perspective.
-
Commissioning Experience: Experience in overseeing the commissioning and testing of electrical systems in critical facilities.
π Enhancement Note: The requirement for 8-10 years of experience, especially in data centers, positions this as a senior-level role. The PE license preference and bilingual skill highlight the international and professional nature of the position. Strong emphasis on codes (NEC, IEC) is critical for a global company.
π Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements
Portfolio Essentials:
-
Design Project Showcase: A curated selection of past electrical design projects, ideally focusing on data centers or critical infrastructure, demonstrating scope, complexity, and successful implementation.
-
System Design Examples: Detailed examples of electrical system designs, including power distribution schematics, backup power configurations (UPS/generator sizing), and lighting plans.
-
Problem-Solving Case Studies: Documented instances of how complex electrical challenges were identified, analyzed, and resolved, showcasing analytical skills and innovative solutions.
-
Specification and Documentation Samples: Examples of technical specifications, design reports, and project documentation that highlight clarity, accuracy, and adherence to standards.
Process Documentation:
-
Design Workflow Optimization: Documentation illustrating the candidate's approach to streamlining electrical design processes, from initial concept to final design documentation, emphasizing efficiency and quality control.
-
Cross-Functional Collaboration Methodology: Evidence of how the candidate has effectively managed communication and integration with other engineering disciplines and project stakeholders during the design phase.
-
Risk Assessment and Mitigation: Examples of processes used to identify potential electrical design risks and implement mitigation strategies to ensure system reliability and project success.
-
Vendor Evaluation and Selection Process: A clear outline of the methodology used for evaluating and selecting electrical equipment vendors and suppliers, ensuring compliance and value.
π Enhancement Note: For a senior technical role like this, a portfolio is crucial. It should not just list projects but demonstrate the candidate's thought process, problem-solving skills, and understanding of process optimization within electrical design for critical facilities.
π΅ Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range:
-
Estimate: β¬80,000 - β¬120,000 per year.
-
Justification: This range is estimated based on industry benchmarks for Electrical Design Managers with 8-10+ years of experience in major European tech hubs like Madrid, considering the specialized nature of data center infrastructure and the responsibilities outlined. The specific salary will depend on the candidate's exact experience, qualifications, and the final negotiation.
Benefits:
-
Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.
-
Retirement Savings Plan: Contribution matching or defined contribution plan to support long-term financial security.
-
Paid Time Off: Generous vacation days, sick leave, and public holidays, designed to promote work-life balance.
-
Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, including training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.
-
Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual bonuses tied to individual and company performance.
-
Relocation Assistance: Support for candidates relocating to Madrid, if applicable.
-
Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for personal and professional challenges.
Working Hours:
-
Standard full-time hours are typically 40 hours per week.
-
Flexibility may be offered, with a focus on project delivery and meeting critical deadlines. Occasional extended hours may be required to manage project timelines or address urgent operational needs.
π Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on typical compensation for senior engineering roles in Spain, with adjustments for the specialized data center sector. Benefits are standard for multinational corporations in the tech/infrastructure space.
π― Team & Company Context
π’ Company Culture
Industry: Data Center Development and Operations. DayOne operates in a highly specialized and rapidly evolving sector driven by the increasing demand for digital infrastructure. This industry requires precision, reliability, and continuous innovation.
Company Size: Growing rapidly, with a significant global presence and expansion into new international markets. This implies a dynamic, fast-paced environment where individuals can make a substantial impact.
Founded: While the exact founding date isn't provided, the company's description as "one of the fastest-growing companies in the industry" and its expansion into Europe suggests a relatively established yet aggressively scaling organization.
Team Structure:
-
Engineering Department: The Electrical Design Manager will be part of a broader engineering team, likely comprising electrical, mechanical, civil, and structural engineers, as well as project managers and site operations personnel.
-
Reporting Hierarchy: Likely reports to a Director or VP of Engineering or Data Center Operations, with direct oversight of junior engineers or design specialists on specific projects.
-
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with Project Management, Construction, Operations, and potentially Procurement and IT departments to ensure holistic project success.
Methodology:
-
Data-Driven Design: Emphasis on using data analytics for load forecasting, system efficiency, and performance optimization in electrical designs.
-
Agile Project Execution: While not explicitly stated, rapid expansion and growth often correlate with agile or iterative project management approaches to adapt to market demands and project complexities.
-
Standardization and Scalability: Focus on developing standardized design patterns and scalable solutions that can be replicated across multiple international data center projects.
Company Website: https://dayonedc.com/
π Enhancement Note: The company's focus on rapid international growth suggests a culture that values adaptability, innovation, and strong execution. The data center industry demands rigorous adherence to standards and a high degree of technical excellence.
π Career & Growth Analysis
Operations Career Level: This role is a senior management position within the engineering and operations support functions. It requires not only deep technical expertise but also the ability to lead teams, manage complex projects, and influence design decisions that have long-term operational implications.
Reporting Structure: The Electrical Design Manager will likely report to a senior engineering leader (e.g., Director of Engineering, VP of Infrastructure) and will be responsible for guiding design teams and collaborating with various project stakeholders.
Operations Impact: The Electrical Design Manager's work directly impacts the reliability, efficiency, and scalability of DayOne's data center infrastructure. Successful electrical designs are critical for ensuring uptime, managing operational costs, and supporting the performance of client IT systems, thus directly contributing to revenue generation and client satisfaction.
Growth Opportunities:
-
Technical Specialization: Opportunity to become a subject matter expert in cutting-edge data center electrical technologies, such as advanced cooling integration, renewable energy sources, and grid modernization.
-
Leadership Advancement: Potential to move into higher leadership roles, such as Director of Electrical Engineering, Head of Infrastructure Design, or VP of Engineering, overseeing larger teams and more strategic initiatives.
-
Global Project Exposure: Involvement in international projects offers exposure to diverse regulatory environments, construction practices, and market needs, broadening professional experience.
-
Strategic Input: Opportunity to contribute to the strategic planning of DayOne's global data center footprint, influencing design standards and technology roadmaps.
π Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for growth within a rapidly expanding global infrastructure company, providing opportunities for both technical deepening and management advancement.
π Work Environment
Office Type: This role is based in a corporate office environment in Madrid. While the primary focus is design and management, there will be requirements for site visits to data center project locations.
Office Location(s): Corporate Office-Madrid, Spain, with potential travel to project sites across Europe and potentially other international locations.
Workspace Context:
-
Collaborative Design Hub: The office environment is expected to foster collaboration among engineering disciplines, project teams, and management.
-
Technology-Rich: Access to necessary design software, communication tools, and potentially advanced visualization or simulation resources.
-
Project-Centric: The workspace will be geared towards project execution, with teams often working intensely on specific project phases.
Work Schedule:
-
Standard 40-hour work week is typical, primarily during business hours in Madrid.
-
Given the nature of data center projects and international operations, occasional flexibility or extended hours may be necessary to meet critical deadlines, coordinate with teams in different time zones, or respond to urgent site issues.
π Enhancement Note: The role is primarily office-based but requires significant interaction with project sites, necessitating travel and adaptability to different work environments.
π Application & Portfolio Review Process
Interview Process:
-
Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the core requirements, focusing on data center electrical design experience and project leadership.
-
Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with engineering leads or senior technical staff to evaluate your expertise in electrical systems, power distribution, backup power solutions, and relevant codes (NEC, IEC). Expect scenario-based questions and problem-solving exercises.
-
Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, detailing your design approach, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work.
-
Management & Cultural Fit Interview: An interview with a hiring manager or senior leader to assess your leadership style, project management capabilities, communication skills, and how well you align with DayOne's culture and values.
-
Final Round/Offer: May involve a final discussion with executive leadership or HR, followed by reference checks and an offer.
Portfolio Review Tips:
-
Focus on Data Center Specifics: Prioritize projects directly related to data center electrical design, highlighting your understanding of critical power requirements, redundancy, and efficiency.
-
Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your specific role, the challenges encountered, the solutions you designed, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, efficiency improvements, risk reduction, uptime achieved).
-
Detail Your Process: Explain your design methodology, how you collaborate with other disciplines, and how you ensure code compliance and quality control.
-
Prepare for Technical Deep Dives: Be ready to discuss the technical details of your designs, including load calculations, equipment selection rationale, and troubleshooting scenarios.
-
Showcase Problem-Solving: Select case studies that vividly illustrate your ability to overcome complex technical hurdles.
Challenge Preparation:
-
Design Scenario: You may be presented with a hypothetical data center design challenge and asked to outline your approach, key considerations, and potential solutions.
-
Code Interpretation: Be prepared to discuss how you would interpret and apply specific electrical codes (NEC, IEC) to a given design scenario.
-
System Sizing Exercise: You might be asked to perform preliminary calculations for power distribution or backup systems based on given parameters.
π Enhancement Note: The interview process will heavily scrutinize both technical depth in data center electrical engineering and managerial competence. A well-prepared, project-focused portfolio is critical for success.
π Tools & Technology Stack
Primary Tools:
-
CAD Software: AutoCAD Electrical, Revit MEP for 2D drafting, 3D modeling, and BIM (Building Information Modeling).
-
Electrical Analysis Software: ETAP, SKM PowerTools, or similar for power flow analysis, short-circuit calculations, load flow, and arc flash studies.
-
Project Management Software: Tools like MS Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for project planning, scheduling, and task tracking.
-
Collaboration Platforms: Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.
Analytics & Reporting:
-
Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in using data from simulations and site monitoring to inform design decisions and identify areas for optimization.
-
Reporting Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel for data analysis and reporting, PowerPoint for presentations).
CRM & Automation:
-
While not directly a CRM role, understanding how design decisions impact operational systems and utilizing automation within the design process (e.g., through scripting or BIM workflows) is beneficial.
-
Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS) interfaces and data integration points with electrical systems.
π Enhancement Note: Proficiency in industry-standard electrical design and analysis software is a baseline requirement. The ability to integrate design with project management and operational data is increasingly important.
π₯ Team Culture & Values
Operations Values:
-
Integrity & Reliability: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and ensuring the uptime and reliability of critical infrastructure.
-
Innovation & Excellence: Continuously seeking better, more efficient, and technologically advanced solutions for data center design.
-
Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where teams work together seamlessly to achieve common goals.
-
Safety & Compliance: Prioritizing the safety of personnel and ensuring strict adherence to all relevant codes and regulations.
-
Customer Focus: Understanding and meeting the high-performance demands of clients who rely on DayOne's data centers for their operations.
Collaboration Style:
-
Cross-Functional Partnership: Expect a highly collaborative environment where engineers, project managers, and operations personnel work in close concert.
-
Open Communication: Encouragement of open dialogue, constructive feedback, and proactive problem-solving across all levels and departments.
-
Knowledge Sharing: A culture that values sharing best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise to elevate the entire team's capabilities.
π Enhancement Note: DayOne's culture, as suggested by its rapid growth and industry, likely emphasizes performance, professionalism, and a forward-thinking approach, balanced with strong ethical practices and teamwork.
β‘ Challenges & Growth Opportunities
Challenges:
-
Rapid Expansion Pace: Keeping pace with DayOne's aggressive global expansion requires efficient design processes and the ability to adapt quickly to new project requirements and locations.
-
Technical Complexity: Managing the intricate electrical demands of high-performance data centers, including high power densities, advanced cooling integration, and stringent uptime requirements.
-
International Standards & Regulations: Navigating diverse electrical codes, permitting processes, and cultural nuances across different European countries.
-
Technology Evolution: Staying abreast of rapid advancements in power technology, energy efficiency, and grid integration solutions for data centers.
-
Balancing Cost and Performance: Ensuring designs are cost-effective while meeting uncompromising standards for reliability and performance.
Learning & Development Opportunities:
-
Advanced Data Center Design Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications relevant to data center electrical engineering and management.
-
Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending key industry events (e.g., Data Center World, Uptime Symposium) to network and learn about emerging trends and technologies.
-
Mentorship Programs: Opportunities to be mentored by senior leaders or to mentor junior engineers, fostering leadership skills.
-
Cross-Training: Exposure to other aspects of data center infrastructure (mechanical systems, IT infrastructure, operations) to develop a more holistic understanding.
π Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for a senior role in a fast-growing, critical infrastructure company, offering significant opportunities for professional development and impact.
π‘ Interview Preparation
Strategy Questions:
-
"Describe a complex electrical design challenge you faced in a data center project and how you resolved it. What was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving methodology, technical depth, and impact.)
-
"How do you ensure your electrical designs comply with international codes like IEC and NEC, especially when designing for multiple regions?" (Highlight your understanding of regulatory frameworks and adaptation strategies.)
-
"Walk me through your process for selecting critical electrical components like UPS systems and generators for a hyperscale data center." (Demonstrate your technical criteria, vendor evaluation skills, and understanding of redundancy.)
-
"How do you collaborate with mechanical engineers and IT teams to ensure seamless integration of electrical systems within the overall data center design?" (Showcase your cross-functional communication and integration approach.) Company & Culture Questions:
-
"What interests you about DayOne and our role in the global data infrastructure market?" (Research DayOne's mission, recent projects, and market position.)
-
"How do you approach managing design teams and ensuring project milestones are met in a fast-paced environment?" (Prepare examples of your leadership style and project management techniques.)
-
"Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders with differing opinions on a design decision." (Illustrate your communication and negotiation skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:
-
Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework to tell a compelling story.
-
Focus on Your Contribution: Clearly articulate your specific role and responsibilities within the project team.
-
Emphasize Technical Rigor: Be prepared to explain the technical rationale behind your design choices and calculations.
-
Quantify Results: Use data and metrics wherever possible to demonstrate the impact of your work (e.g., power efficiency gains, cost savings, reliability improvements).
-
Highlight Problem-Solving: Showcase projects where you encountered and successfully overcame significant technical or logistical challenges.
π Enhancement Note: Prepare to demonstrate not just technical knowledge but also strategic thinking, leadership potential, and a strong understanding of the business impact of electrical design in the data center industry.
π Application Steps
To apply for this operations position:
-
Submit your application through the provided Workday link.
-
Tailor Your Resume: Highlight your experience in data center electrical design, power distribution, UPS/generator systems, and familiarity with NEC and IEC codes. Quantify achievements where possible (e.g., "Managed electrical design for X MW data center," "Reduced design cycle time by Y%").
-
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best showcase your expertise in data center electrical engineering. Be ready to discuss design rationale, challenges, solutions, and project outcomes in detail.
-
Research DayOne: Familiarize yourself with DayOne's mission, recent projects, and their position in the global data center market. Understand their emphasis on growth and infrastructure development.
-
Practice Interview Questions: Rehearse answers to common technical, behavioral, and situational interview questions, focusing on demonstrating your problem-solving skills, leadership capabilities, and technical acumen.
β οΈ 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
Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and 8-10 years of experience in critical infrastructure or data center design. A Professional Engineer (PE) license or equivalent certification is preferred, along with in-depth knowledge of electrical codes.