Extremely Low Voltage (ELV) Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Extremely Low Voltage (ELV) Design Manager

Company: DayOne

Location: Madrid, Spain (with potential for London)

Job Type: Full time

Category: Data Center Operations & Design

Date Posted: 2026-09-18

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end Extremely Low Voltage (ELV) design for mission-critical data center projects across Europe.

• Oversee critical infrastructure components including ICT, structured cabling, fiber optics, security systems, and Building Management Systems (BMS)/Building Automation (BA) interfaces.

• Ensure ELV systems are reliable, scalable, maintainable, secure, and fully integrated with wider data center infrastructure and operational requirements.

• Drive technical leadership and design coordination across multidisciplinary teams, consultants, contractors, and vendors.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for ensuring the foundational low-voltage infrastructure of DayOne's data centers meets the stringent demands of high-performance computing and operational uptime. The ELV Design Manager acts as a key technical authority, bridging the gap between design intent and operational reality, with a strong emphasis on European regulations and industry best practices.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• ELV Design Leadership: Spearhead the comprehensive ELV design process for data center projects, encompassing ICT infrastructure, structured cabling, fiber optic networks, telecom rooms, comprehensive security systems (access control, CCTV), and BMS/BA integration.

• Connectivity & Cabling Infrastructure: Manage and oversee the design of backbone and horizontal cabling, including conduit, containment systems, pathway design, rack layouts, patching infrastructure, and cross-connect areas, ensuring alignment with network architecture and IT requirements.

• Physical Security Systems Design: Lead the design coordination and integration of sophisticated physical security systems, such as advanced access control mechanisms, comprehensive video surveillance (CCTV) networks, robust perimeter security solutions, alarm systems, and the design of secure monitoring and control rooms.

• Multidisciplinary Design Coordination: Facilitate seamless coordination of ELV design elements with other critical disciplines including electrical, mechanical, architectural, civil, structural, fire protection, IT/network engineering, security operations, data center operations, external consultants, general contractors, specialized vendors, and all project stakeholders to ensure holistic project delivery.

• Technical Guidance & Standards Enforcement: Provide expert technical direction to internal teams and external partners to guarantee that all ELV solutions are not only reliable, scalable, and maintainable but also secure and fully aligned with DayOne’s stringent project specifications and long-term operational needs.

• Design Review & Quality Assurance: Conduct thorough reviews of all design-related documentation, including drawings, detailed specifications, schematics, system architecture diagrams, technical proposals, and other design deliverables, to verify completeness, ensure interdisciplinary coordination, confirm technical accuracy, and assess constructability.

• Compliance & Regulatory Adherence: Ensure all ELV, BMS, and BA designs strictly adhere to DayOne’s internal design standards, relevant European Union (EU) and local regulations, specific authority requirements, detailed project specifications, and the precise expectations of end-users.

• Vendor & Supplier Engagement: Proactively coordinate with ELV equipment manufacturers and system suppliers to review and validate proposed equipment, system architectures, materials, and emerging technologies against project requirements, technical specifications, and lifecycle cost considerations.

• Risk Management & Issue Resolution: Systematically identify potential design and construction risks, proactively resolve complex technical issues that arise, and provide critical support for design decisions, installation strategies, testing protocols, commissioning procedures, project handover, and ensuring overall operational readiness.

• Commissioning & Handover Support: Actively support the testing, commissioning, and validation phases for ELV, ICT, security, BMS, and BA systems, including comprehensive as-built documentation review and ensuring a smooth, well-documented handover to the operations team.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a deep dive into the technical execution of data center infrastructure. Success in this role requires not only strong design capabilities but also robust project management and cross-functional communication skills, particularly in navigating complex European regulatory landscapes and ensuring operational readiness.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Telecommunications Engineering, ICT Engineering, Electronics Engineering, or a closely related technical field.

• A Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline is considered a significant advantage. Experience:

• A minimum of 8–10 years of progressive experience in the design and management of Extremely Low Voltage (ELV), ICT, security, BMS/BA, or other low-voltage infrastructure systems.

• Prior experience within data center environments or other mission-critical facilities is highly preferred. Required Skills:

• ELV System Design: Profound understanding and practical experience in designing data center ELV systems, including but not limited to structured cabling (copper and fiber), ICT infrastructure, network connectivity, and telecommunications room layouts.

• Security Systems Design: Expertise in designing integrated physical security solutions, including access control systems (ACS), video surveillance (CCTV), intrusion detection, and alarm management systems.

• BMS/BA Integration: Solid knowledge of Building Management Systems (BMS) and Building Automation (BA) principles and their interfaces with ELV and ICT infrastructure.

• Design Coordination & Collaboration: Proven ability to effectively coordinate complex design workstreams with a diverse range of stakeholders including internal engineering teams, external consultants, general contractors, specialized subcontractors, and technology vendors.

• Standards & Compliance: Thorough knowledge of relevant international, European, and local standards and regulations governing ELV, ICT, security, and data center design (e.g., TIA, BICSI, EN standards, local building codes).

• Technical Documentation: Proficiency in reviewing and producing high-quality technical documentation, including drawings, schematics, specifications, and system architecture diagrams.

• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Strong aptitude for identifying, analyzing, and resolving complex technical challenges encountered during the design, installation, and commissioning phases.

• English Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English are essential for effective collaboration and documentation.

Preferred Skills:

• Professional Certifications: Holding a Professional Engineer (PE), Chartered Engineer, BICSI RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer), or equivalent professional certification is highly desirable.

• Second European Language: Proficiency in an additional European language (e.g., Spanish, French, German) would be a valuable asset for regional project coordination.

• Data Center Specific Design: Direct experience with data center design principles, including power distribution for low-voltage equipment, cooling interfaces, and fire suppression system coordination.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management and design collaboration tools.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of deep technical expertise in ELV and related systems with practical experience in a mission-critical environment. The preference for professional certifications and additional languages indicates a focus on recognized expertise and effective international collaboration.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Case Studies: Showcase detailed case studies of previous ELV design projects, emphasizing complexity, scale, and innovative solutions implemented.

• System Integration Examples: Provide examples of how different ELV sub-systems (ICT, security, BMS) were successfully integrated to create a cohesive and functional infrastructure.

• Compliance Documentation: Include samples or descriptions of how compliance with relevant standards (e.g., BICSI, TIA, EN) and local regulations was ensured in past projects.

• Problem Resolution Examples: Present specific instances where technical challenges were encountered and successfully resolved through design modifications or innovative problem-solving.

Process Documentation:

• Design Workflow: Demonstrate understanding of a structured design workflow, from conceptualization and schematic design through detailed design, specification development, and construction documentation.

• Coordination Methodologies: Illustrate processes used for effective multidisciplinary coordination, including clash detection, RFI management, and submittal review protocols.

• Quality Assurance & Control: Outline the methods and tools used for quality assurance and quality control throughout the design lifecycle to ensure accuracy and adherence to standards.

• Commissioning & Handover Protocols: Detail experience with developing and executing commissioning plans and handover procedures for ELV systems to ensure operational readiness.

📝 Enhancement Note: A strong portfolio demonstrating practical application of design principles, successful integration of complex systems, and robust problem-solving skills will be crucial. Emphasis should be placed on showcasing the candidate's ability to manage the entire design lifecycle and ensure operational readiness in data center environments.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for an ELV Design Manager role with 8-10+ years of experience in a major European city like Madrid or London, the estimated annual salary range would be approximately €75,000 - €100,000 (or equivalent in GBP for London). This range is subject to variation based on specific experience, qualifications, and the final determined location of employment within Europe.

• Methodology: This estimate is derived from analyzing compensation data for similar engineering management and design roles in the data center and critical infrastructure sectors across Western Europe, considering the high demand for specialized skills in this field.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents.

• Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a company-sponsored pension or retirement savings scheme.

• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave, public holidays, and sick leave allowances.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for continuous learning, including training programs, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences.

• International Mobility: Potential for international assignments and career growth within DayOne's global operations.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to project success and company objectives.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours are typically 40 hours per week.

• Flexibility may be required to accommodate project deadlines, international coordination across time zones, and critical commissioning or handover phases.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimate and should be verified with the employer. The benefits package is typical for a multinational company in this sector, emphasizing health, long-term financial security, and professional growth. The mention of potential for international assignments is a key differentiator for ambitious candidates.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Data Center Development and Operations. DayOne operates at the forefront of the rapidly expanding data infrastructure industry, providing high-performance, scalable, and reliable data center solutions globally.

Company Size: DayOne is described as one of the fastest-growing companies in the industry, indicating a dynamic and expanding organization. While a specific headcount isn't provided, its rapid growth suggests a significant and increasing global presence.

Founded: The founding date is not specified, but the company's emphasis on rapid expansion and global leadership implies a relatively modern and agile operational structure.

Team Structure:

• ELV Design Team: This role likely sits within a larger engineering or design department, potentially focused on data center infrastructure. The ELV Design Manager will lead a specialized sub-team or function dedicated to low-voltage systems.

• Reporting Structure: The ELV Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering, Head of Design, or a similar senior engineering leadership position, overseeing project-specific design activities.

• Cross-functional Collaboration: Close collaboration is expected with project management, IT/Network Engineering, Security Operations, Data Center Operations, Procurement, and construction teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Design: Decisions regarding ELV design will be informed by data center performance requirements, operational feedback, and industry best practices.

• Agile Project Execution: Given the company's rapid growth, agile and efficient project execution methodologies are likely employed, requiring adaptability and proactive problem-solving.

• Standardization & Best Practices: DayOne emphasizes internal standards and industry best practices, ensuring consistency and quality across its global portfolio.

Company Website: https://dayonedc.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: DayOne's focus on rapid growth and global expansion suggests a fast-paced, innovative environment. The company culture likely values agility, technical excellence, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, especially in the context of mission-critical infrastructure.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior-level management position within the engineering and design function, specifically focused on ELV systems for data centers. It requires significant technical expertise coupled with leadership and project coordination responsibilities.

Reporting Structure: The ELV Design Manager will report to a senior engineering leader, likely a Director or Head of Engineering/Design. They will lead ELV design efforts for multiple projects and may manage a team of ELV engineers or designers.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the reliability, security, scalability, and operational efficiency of DayOne's data centers. Well-designed ELV systems are fundamental to data center uptime, performance, and security, directly influencing customer satisfaction and revenue generation.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in advanced ELV technologies, data center infrastructure, or specific areas like cybersecurity integration within ELV systems.

• Leadership Expansion: Progress to a broader engineering management role, overseeing multiple disciplines or larger project portfolios.

• Global Project Involvement: Take on design leadership for larger, more complex, or flagship data center projects in different international markets.

• Strategic Input: Contribute to the development of DayOne's global ELV design standards and future technology roadmaps.

• Cross-functional Leadership: Transition into roles that require broader oversight of data center infrastructure, operations, or project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role offers a clear path for career advancement within the critical infrastructure sector. The combination of technical depth and management responsibilities, coupled with DayOne's global expansion, provides substantial opportunities for growth and increased scope of influence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily on-site, requiring presence at the corporate office in Madrid, Spain, with potential travel to project sites or other DayOne offices, including London. This indicates a need for in-person collaboration and direct oversight.

Office Location(s): Corporate Office in Madrid, Spain. Potential engagement with projects and teams in London, UK.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The workspace in Madrid is likely designed to foster collaboration among engineering, project management, and other corporate functions. Expect a mix of individual work areas and shared meeting spaces.

• Tools & Technology: Access to industry-standard design software (CAD, BIM, simulation tools), project management platforms, and communication tools will be provided.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with a diverse team of engineers, project managers, and operational staff, both locally and internationally.

Work Schedule: Standard business hours (likely around 40 hours per week) are expected, but flexibility will be necessary to manage international project timelines, respond to urgent issues, and support critical project milestones such as commissioning and handover.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Madrid, with potential travel, emphasizes the need for hands-on involvement and direct team engagement. The environment is geared towards collaborative problem-solving and efficient project execution in a fast-paced industry.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: In-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior engineering leader) to evaluate technical expertise, leadership style, and alignment with team needs. Expect questions on ELV design principles, project management, and stakeholder coordination.

• Technical Assessment/Panel Interview: A panel of subject matter experts (e.g., senior engineers, operations leads) will assess technical depth. This may include a review of your portfolio, technical problem-solving exercises, or scenario-based questions related to data center ELV design challenges.

• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present key projects from your portfolio, detailing your role, design approach, challenges faced, solutions implemented, and the impact of your work.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a higher-level executive or department head to discuss strategic alignment and long-term fit.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 of your most relevant and impactful data center or mission-critical ELV design projects.

• Structure Your Case Studies: For each project, clearly outline:

  • Project Scope & Objectives
  • Your Specific Role & Responsibilities
  • Key Design Challenges (Technical, Regulatory, Coordination)
  • Design Solutions & Methodologies Employed (e.g., specific technologies, standards used)
  • Collaboration & Stakeholder Management
  • Outcomes & Results (e.g., efficiency gains, uptime, cost savings, compliance achieved)

• Highlight Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical intricacies of your designs, including specific cabling standards, security system integrations, and BMS/BA interfaces.

• Showcase Problem-Solving: Emphasize instances where you successfully navigated complex technical hurdles or resolved critical issues.

• Quantify Impact: Where possible, use metrics to demonstrate the success of your designs (e.g., reduced latency, improved security posture, energy efficiency).

• Tailor to DayOne: Research DayOne's projects and priorities to subtly align your examples with their strategic interests.

Challenge Preparation:

• Design Scenario Questions: Be ready to analyze hypothetical ELV design problems for a data center and propose solutions, considering constraints like budget, timeline, and specific site conditions.

• Coordination Scenarios: Prepare for questions about managing conflicts or differing technical opinions between engineering disciplines, contractors, or vendors.

• Regulatory Compliance: Review common European and local regulations relevant to ELV and data center infrastructure.

• Operational Readiness: Think about how your designs facilitate smooth commissioning and ongoing operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process emphasizes both technical proficiency and the ability to present complex information clearly. A well-prepared portfolio that highlights relevant experience and showcases problem-solving skills will be critical for success.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/BIM Software: Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit, or similar tools for creating detailed design drawings and models.

• ELV Design Software: Familiarity with specialized software for structured cabling design, network simulation, or security system layout.

• Project Management Software: Experience with platforms like Microsoft Project, Asana, Jira, or similar for tracking tasks, timelines, and resources.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Ability to interpret data from system performance reports, commissioning tests, and operational feedback to inform design improvements.

• Reporting Tools: Skills in generating clear and concise technical reports for design reviews, stakeholder updates, and compliance documentation.

CRM & Automation:

• While not directly a CRM role, understanding how ELV systems interface with building management and security automation platforms is key. Familiarity with BMS/BA system architectures and integration protocols is crucial.

• Integration Tools: Knowledge of protocols and technologies used for integrating diverse low-voltage systems (e.g., BACnet, Modbus, IP networking standards).

📝 Enhancement Note: The technology stack focuses on design and project management tools. Strong proficiency in CAD/BIM and an understanding of how ELV systems integrate with broader building automation and security platforms are essential.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence & Precision: A commitment to high-quality, accurate, and reliable ELV designs that meet stringent data center requirements.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Emphasis on working effectively across diverse teams, fostering open communication and mutual respect to achieve project goals.

• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: A drive to explore new technologies and methodologies to enhance ELV system performance, efficiency, and security.

• Accountability & Ownership: Taking responsibility for design outcomes, proactive problem-solving, and ensuring successful project delivery from conception to handover.

• Safety & Compliance: A paramount focus on adhering to all safety regulations and industry standards to ensure the well-being of personnel and the integrity of the infrastructure.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive Communication: Encouraging open dialogue and timely information sharing between all project stakeholders.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Working closely with electrical, mechanical, IT, security, and operations teams to ensure holistic and cohesive design solutions.

• Constructive Feedback Loop: Fostering an environment where feedback on designs and processes is welcomed and used for continuous improvement.

• Knowledge Sharing: Actively participating in knowledge sharing sessions and contributing to the collective expertise within the engineering department.

📝 Enhancement Note: DayOne likely cultivates a culture that values both technical rigor and collaborative problem-solving. The emphasis on accountability and continuous improvement aligns with the dynamic nature of the data center industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with the fast-changing landscape of ICT, security, and automation technologies relevant to data centers.

• Complex Regulatory Environment: Navigating and ensuring compliance with a multitude of European and local regulations that can vary significantly by region.

• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Effectively managing dependencies and potential conflicts between multiple engineering disciplines and stakeholders on large-scale projects.

• Global Project Rollouts: Adapting designs and project execution strategies to meet the unique requirements and challenges of different international markets.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced ELV Technologies: Opportunities to gain expertise in emerging ELV technologies, such as advanced fiber optics, next-generation security systems, and AI-driven building automation.

• Data Center Infrastructure Specialization: Deepen knowledge in the broader context of data center design, including power, cooling, and fire suppression systems, to understand ELV's role more holistically.

• International Project Management: Develop skills in managing projects across different cultural and regulatory landscapes.

• Leadership Training: Access to leadership development programs to enhance management and strategic planning capabilities.

• Industry Conferences & Certifications: Support for attending key industry events and pursuing advanced certifications (e.g., BICSI advanced levels, specialized security or BMS certifications).

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents significant challenges related to technological advancement and regulatory complexity, which in turn offer substantial opportunities for professional growth and skill development in a high-demand sector.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex ELV design challenge you faced on a mission-critical project and how you resolved it, detailing the impact of your solution." (Focus on problem-solving, technical depth, and outcome measurement.)

• "How do you ensure effective coordination between ELV design, electrical, mechanical, and IT/network teams on a large-scale data center project?" (Highlight collaboration strategies, communication methods, and conflict resolution.)

• "Walk us through your process for ensuring compliance with European and local regulations for ELV systems in a new market." (Demonstrate understanding of regulatory research, application, and verification.) Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about DayOne and our approach to data center infrastructure development?" (Research their website, recent news, and project portfolio.)

• "How do you see the role of ELV design evolving in the data center industry over the next 5 years?" (Show forward-thinking and an understanding of industry trends.)

• "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders with differing technical opinions. How did you approach it?" (Assess your negotiation and persuasion skills.) Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure for Impact: Begin with a brief overview of your career and highlight the types of projects you'll be presenting.

• Detail Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific responsibilities and contributions in each case study, avoiding general team statements.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, schematics, or photos where appropriate to illustrate your design concepts and solutions. Ensure they are professional and easy to understand.

• Focus on Outcomes: Emphasize the tangible results and benefits of your designs, using metrics whenever possible.

• Be Ready for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed technical questions about your design choices, calculations, and problem-solving approaches.

• Connect to DayOne: Briefly explain how your experience and approach align with DayOne’s mission and values.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on articulating technical solutions, demonstrating leadership in coordination, and showcasing a deep understanding of data center infrastructure requirements and regulatory frameworks. A strong, well-presented portfolio is key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Extremely Low Voltage (ELV) Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided application link on DayOne's Workday portal.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight experience with data center ELV systems, ICT infrastructure, security design, BMS/BA integration, and international project coordination. Use keywords from the job description such as "ELV Design," "Data Center," "Structured Cabling," "Security Systems," and "BMS/BA."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a concise portfolio showcasing 3-4 of your most relevant data center or mission-critical ELV design projects. Focus on demonstrating your design process, problem-solving skills, technical depth, and project outcomes. Ensure it's ready for presentation.

• Research DayOne: Thoroughly investigate DayOne's company mission, values, recent projects, and global presence. Understand their approach to data center development and operational excellence.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare answers to common interview questions, particularly those focusing on technical challenges, design methodologies, stakeholder management, and your experience with European regulations. Practice articulating your portfolio case studies clearly and concisely.

⚠️ 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.