Architecture Design Manager- Data Center Market

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Architecture Design Manager - Data Center Market Company: Gray Architects & Engineers, LLC Location: Coppell, TX (Dallas Area) Job Type: Other (Likely Full-Time) Category: Architecture & Design Operations Date Posted: July 23, 2025 Experience Level: 5-10 Years Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Manages the architectural design process for data center projects, ensuring alignment with client requirements and regulatory standards.
• Leads and coordinates multidisciplinary design teams, including architects, engineers, and sub-consultants, to deliver integrated design solutions.
• Oversees the preparation and quality assurance of all design documents, from schematic design through construction administration.
• Facilitates client consultations, design reviews, and approvals, ensuring clear communication and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Drives cost control and schedule adherence for all design-related activities, contributing to overall project profitability and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the input job title and description are for an "Architecture Design Manager," this enhanced description frames the role through an operations lens. The focus is on the managerial and process-driven aspects of design execution, quality control, and project delivery within the complex data center market. This interpretation aligns with how operations professionals would view a role that manages processes, resources, and outcomes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Review and refine design proposal criteria, facilitating the meticulous preparation of comprehensive proposal documents for construction personnel, subcontractors, and vendors.
• Conduct thorough research on project design parameters, ensuring strict adherence to all applicable code and regulatory requirements pertinent to data center facilities.
• Engage in direct consultation with clients to accurately ascertain functional and spatial requirements for new structures or renovations, translating these into detailed design specifications, material selections, color palettes, and equipment configurations.
• Develop project layouts, seamlessly integrating essential engineering elements into a unified, client-approved design concept.
• Implement robust quality assurance and quality control (QA/QC) protocols across all design disciplines, including the critical review of documents prepared by Architectural Technicians, sub-consultants, and design-build subcontractors.
• Administer and manage design contracts with clients and sub-consultants, ensuring contractual obligations and deliverables are met.
• Facilitate and lead design review sessions, presenting current design documents effectively for client review and formal approval.
• Coordinate all design activities between clients and Gray AES sub-consultants, fostering a collaborative and efficient workflow.
• Manage the preparation of schematic design, design development, and construction documents, alongside overseeing all construction administration activities for assigned projects.
• Develop detailed design schedules and accurate estimates of Architectural & Engineering (A/E) costs for projects, ensuring financial viability.
• Monitor project design activities to guarantee compliance with Gray AES's established standards, procedures, and best practices.
• Manage all administrative tasks associated with the design phase of projects, ensuring operational efficiency.
• Maintain rigorous cost control over all design activities, ensuring accurate financial management and profitability.
• Potentially supervise and mentor a small team, including Architectural Technicians and Assistant Design Managers, ensuring professional development and performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities are expanded to emphasize the operational management of the design lifecycle. This includes detailing the QA/QC processes, contract administration, client interaction protocols, and financial oversight (cost control, A/E cost estimation) which are critical functions within operations management. The supervisory aspect is also highlighted as a key operational responsibility.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university in Architecture, Engineering, or a related design field.
• Alternatively, a degree from a technical college combined with a minimum of seven years of directly relevant experience in architectural design management, particularly within the data center sector.
• An equivalent combination of formal education and progressive professional experience will also be considered.

Experience:

• Demonstrated experience in managing architectural design processes from concept through construction administration.
• Proven track record of successfully delivering complex projects, with a strong preference for experience in the mission-critical / data center market.
• Experience in coordinating with multiple design disciplines (structural, MEP, IT infrastructure) and external sub-consultants.
• Experience in managing design contracts, budgets, and schedules.

Required Skills:

• Architecture Design Principles: Deep understanding of architectural design best practices, building codes, and regulatory compliance, specifically for data centers.
• Revit Proficiency: Basic computer skills mandatory, including advanced proficiency in Revit for design and documentation.
• Project Management: Strong capabilities in project management methodologies, including planning, execution, monitoring, and closing design phases.
• Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management abilities.
• Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC): Proven experience in implementing and overseeing QA/QC processes for design documents.
• Customer Consultation: Ability to effectively consult with clients to understand and translate their needs into design solutions.
• Team Collaboration: Demonstrated ability to foster a collaborative environment and work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.

Preferred Skills:

• Data Center Specific Design: Specialized knowledge of data center infrastructure, including power, cooling, security, and redundancy requirements.
• Cost Control Management: Experience in managing and controlling design-related project costs effectively.
• Construction Administration: Familiarity with construction administration processes and site coordination.
• Regulatory Research: Skill in researching and interpreting applicable building codes and industry standards.
• Proposal Development: Experience in contributing to and reviewing technical proposals.

📝 Enhancement Note: The skills section is stratified into required and preferred categories, with a strong emphasis on technical proficiency (Revit) and operational competencies like QA/QC, cost control, and project management. The preference for data center experience is highlighted as a key differentiator for operational success in this specific market.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Design Project Case Studies: Showcase a minimum of 3-5 complex architectural design projects, preferably within the data center or mission-critical sector. Each case study should detail the project's scope, your specific role, design challenges, solutions implemented, and final outcomes.
• Process Improvement Documentation: Include examples of documented processes you have developed or improved for design coordination, quality control, or client communication, illustrating enhanced efficiency or reduced errors.
• System Implementation Examples: Provide evidence of your experience with design software systems (e.g., Revit models, BIM coordination workflows), demonstrating proficiency in utilizing technology for design delivery and collaboration.
• ROI Demonstration: Where possible, quantify the impact of your design management on project success, such as cost savings achieved through design optimization, schedule adherence improvements, or enhanced client satisfaction metrics.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design and Optimization: Examples of architectural design workflows you have designed or optimized, including phases like concept development, design documentation, interdisciplinary coordination, and approval processes.
• Implementation and Automation: Documentation illustrating how design processes were implemented or automated using technology (e.g., BIM standards, automated drawing generation, digital review platforms).
• Measurement and Performance Analysis: Records of how design project performance was measured and analyzed, including metrics related to design quality, budget adherence, schedule compliance, and client feedback.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section is crucial for operations roles. It specifies the need for a portfolio that demonstrates not just design output, but also the process by which that output was achieved, managed, and improved. Emphasis is placed on demonstrating efficiency, quality control, and the use of systems and technology for effective operations management within the design lifecycle.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Given the role's location (Coppell, TX - Dallas Area), experience level (5-10 years), and the specialized nature of data center architecture management, a competitive salary range is estimated between $100,000 - $140,000 per year. This estimate is based on industry benchmarks for experienced Architecture Design Managers in major metropolitan areas with a strong commercial and industrial sector, adjusted for the high-demand data center market.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Medical, dental, and vision coverage designed to support employee well-being.
• Retirement Savings Plan: 401(k) or similar plan with potential company match to support long-term financial goals.
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay to promote work-life balance.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for continued education, training, certifications (e.g., LEED, AIA), and attendance at industry conferences.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for discretionary bonuses tied to individual and company performance, reflecting operational success.
• Life and Disability Insurance: Coverage to provide financial security for employees and their families.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Support services for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work schedule is typically 40 hours per week. However, the nature of project-based work in architecture and construction, particularly in the data center market, means that overtime will be required to meet project deadlines and client demands. Flexibility may be offered, but consistent availability during core business hours is expected.

📝 Enhancement Note: A specific salary range is provided based on industry data for similar roles in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, factoring in the specialized data center market. Benefits are listed with an operations-centric perspective, highlighting professional development and performance incentives that appeal to career-driven operations professionals. The working hours explicitly mention the likelihood of overtime, a common operational reality.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering, Design, Construction, and Digital Services. Gray AES operates within the broader Gray organization, a global service provider known for its integrated approach across multiple markets. The data center market is a key focus, demanding precision, reliability, and cutting-edge solutions. Company Size: Gray is a substantial, family-owned organization with a global presence, indicating a stable yet dynamic work environment. Gray AES, as its professional services arm, likely comprises numerous specialized teams. This size offers opportunities for cross-functional collaboration and exposure to diverse projects. Founded: Gray was founded in 1960, providing a long history of stability and expertise. This heritage suggests a company culture that values experience, long-term relationships, and a commitment to excellence, which often translates into structured operational processes.

Team Structure:

• The Architecture Design Manager will likely be part of the Gray AES professional services division, specifically within the Data Center market segment. The team will consist of multidisciplinary professionals.
• The reporting structure typically involves a direct report to a Senior Manager, Director of Operations, or Principal Architect/Engineer, with leadership responsibility over junior designers and technicians.
• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, involving close partnerships with Gray's construction, engineering (MEP, structural), digital, and project management teams, as well as external clients and sub-consultants.

Methodology:

• Data Analysis & Insights: Design decisions are informed by rigorous analysis of client requirements, site conditions, code compliance, and cost-benefit assessments. Data from previous projects and industry trends are utilized.
• Workflow Planning & Optimization: Emphasis on structured design processes, including detailed project planning, resource allocation, risk management, and continuous improvement of design workflows for efficiency and quality.
• Automation & Efficiency: Leveraging technology, particularly BIM (Building Information Modeling) and integrated design platforms, to automate repetitive tasks, enhance coordination, and improve overall design delivery efficiency.

Company Website: gray.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context is framed to highlight aspects relevant to operations professionals: stability, integrated service delivery, and the importance of structured processes and data-driven decision-making within a specialized market like data centers. The emphasis on collaboration across Gray's various divisions points to operational synergy.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a mid-to-senior level management position within the design operations function. It requires a blend of technical design expertise and strong leadership, project management, and operational oversight capabilities. The scope includes managing project lifecycles, client relationships, and team performance. Reporting Structure: The Architecture Design Manager typically reports to a higher-level operations or design leader (e.g., Director of Design, VP of Operations, or a Principal). They will have direct reports, such as Architectural Technicians or Assistant Design Managers, forming a small operational unit responsible for specific project portfolios. Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on project success, profitability, and client satisfaction. By ensuring efficient design processes, quality deliverables, and cost control, the manager contributes to the overall operational efficiency and financial health of Gray AES's data center projects. Effective design management minimizes costly changes during construction and ensures the facility meets performance requirements.

Growth Opportunities:

• Senior Management: Progression to Senior Architecture Design Manager, Director of Design, or VP of Operations roles, overseeing larger teams, more complex projects, or entire market segments.
• Specialization: Deepening expertise in data center design, potentially leading to roles focused on specific technologies (e.g., advanced cooling systems, hyperscale data center design) or becoming a subject matter expert.
• Project Leadership: Transitioning into broader project leadership roles, such as Director of Projects or Program Manager, managing multiple concurrent data center projects from initial concept through completion.
• Business Development: Leveraging design expertise and client relationships to contribute to business development activities, proposal generation, and client acquisition.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career analysis focuses on the operational progression path, emphasizing the management and leadership aspects of the role. It details how the position contributes to business operations and outlines clear avenues for advancement within an operations-focused career trajectory.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a professional office environment in Coppell, TX. Gray AES emphasizes a collaborative and team-oriented atmosphere. The office likely provides resources and infrastructure to support detailed design work and team interaction. Office Location(s): The primary location mentioned is Coppell, Texas, part of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This region is a significant hub for technology and data centers, offering a dynamic professional ecosystem. Workspace Context:

• The workspace is designed to foster collaboration, with opportunities for team meetings, design reviews, and cross-functional discussions.
• Access to essential operations tools and technology, including high-performance workstations, design software (Revit, AutoCAD, BIM platforms), and communication systems, will be provided.
• Regular interaction with internal teams (engineering, construction, project management) and potentially clients, facilitating a comprehensive understanding of project operations.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is the baseline. However, due to the demanding nature of the data center market and project deadlines, flexibility with working hours, including potential evening or weekend work, is expected. This adaptability is a key characteristic of successful operations roles in project-driven environments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment description is tailored to highlight aspects relevant to operations professionals, such as the collaborative culture, access to necessary technology, and the expectation of flexibility regarding work hours to meet project operational demands.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or a hiring manager will conduct an initial review of applications and resumes, focusing on relevant experience, qualifications, and alignment with core requirements.
• Technical Interview: A more in-depth interview with senior design or operations leadership. Expect questions assessing your understanding of architectural design principles, data center specifics, project management methodologies, and your approach to quality assurance and process management. Portfolio review often occurs at this stage.
• Team/Stakeholder Interviews: Meetings with potential team members and key stakeholders (e.g., project managers, senior engineers) to evaluate cultural fit, collaboration style, and communication skills.
• Final Interview: Typically with a senior executive or department head to finalize the decision, focusing on strategic alignment and long-term potential.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 of your most impactful projects, prioritizing those in the data center or similar mission-critical sectors. Ensure each project clearly demonstrates your role, responsibilities, and the outcomes achieved.
• Process Focus: For each project, explicitly detail the design process followed, including how you managed workflows, coordinated disciplines, implemented QA/QC, and handled client communication. Highlight any process improvements you implemented.
• Quantify Results: Wherever possible, use metrics to showcase your impact. This could include cost savings, schedule adherence, reduction in design errors, or client satisfaction scores. Present data clearly and concisely.
• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio items as case studies. Explain the challenge, your approach (emphasizing operational efficiency and problem-solving), and the successful resolution. Be prepared to walk through key documents or drawings if requested.
• Tailor to Gray: Research Gray's projects and values. Highlight experiences that align with their integrated service model and focus on the data center market.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential case studies or hypothetical scenarios related to managing a complex design project, resolving interdisciplinary conflicts, or addressing quality control issues within a tight deadline.
• Practice articulating your design philosophy, management style, and problem-solving approach clearly and concisely.
• Understand Gray's company structure and service offerings to demonstrate how your role integrates within their broader operational framework.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for operations candidates on preparing for the interview process, with a strong emphasis on portfolio presentation that highlights process management, quality control, and demonstrable results, aligning with operational evaluation criteria.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: Essential for Building Information Modeling (BIM), architectural design, documentation, and interdisciplinary coordination. Proficiency in creating and managing complex Revit models is expected.
• AutoCAD: Still relevant for specific drafting tasks, 2D documentation, and compatibility with legacy project files.
• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Word (document creation, proposal writing), Excel (budget management, data analysis, scheduling), PowerPoint (presentations, client meetings), and Outlook (communication, scheduling).
• Project Management Software: Familiarity with tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar platforms for developing and tracking design schedules.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Coordination Tools: Software like Navisworks for clash detection, model aggregation, and design review, crucial for QA/QC in complex projects.
• Data Visualization Tools: Experience with tools like Tableau or Power BI may be beneficial for analyzing project performance data and presenting findings.
• Reporting Platforms: Ability to generate and interpret reports from project management and design software to track progress, costs, and quality metrics.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics): While not directly a design tool, understanding how client data and project pipelines are managed in CRM systems can be beneficial for client-facing roles.
• Document Management Systems (e.g., SharePoint, Procore): Experience with platforms for organizing, sharing, and version-controlling design documents and project correspondence.
• Collaboration Platforms: Tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or Bluebeam Revu for facilitating communication, file sharing, and collaborative review processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section details the technology stack relevant to operations in an architecture firm, focusing on design software, project management tools, and collaborative platforms that enable efficient workflow and quality control. The emphasis is on tools that support operational execution and data management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity & Excellence: Upholding the highest standards in design quality, ethical conduct, and professional execution, reflecting a commitment to operational reliability.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse perspectives are valued, and collective effort drives project success. This emphasizes the operational synergy required.
• Innovation & Continuous Improvement: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies to enhance design processes, efficiency, and client solutions.
• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations through responsive communication, proactive problem-solving, and delivering exceptional value.
• Accountability: Taking ownership of responsibilities, commitments, and project outcomes, ensuring reliable operational delivery.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Actively engaging with engineering, construction, and project management teams to ensure seamless project execution and alignment across all operational facets.
• Process Review & Feedback: Encouraging open dialogue and constructive feedback loops within the design team and with external partners to refine processes and improve outcomes.
• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and technical expertise across the team to foster collective growth and operational excellence.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture and values are interpreted through an operations lens, highlighting principles like integrity, accountability, continuous improvement, and collaborative efficiency, which are core tenets for successful operations teams.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complex Data Center Requirements: Navigating the intricate technical specifications, high-density power, cooling demands, and stringent uptime requirements of data center facilities presents a significant design challenge.
• Interdisciplinary Coordination: Effectively coordinating between various engineering disciplines (MEP, structural, IT), architectural teams, and construction partners to ensure seamless integration and avoid design conflicts requires robust operational oversight.
• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in data center technology, energy efficiency solutions, and digital design tools necessitates continuous learning and adaptation.
• Client Expectation Management: Balancing client needs, budget constraints, and aggressive project timelines while maintaining design integrity and quality requires strong negotiation and operational planning skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Design Certifications: Pursuing specialized certifications (e.g., Uptime Institute, LEED AP for Data Centers) to deepen expertise and enhance professional credibility.
• Industry Conferences & Seminars: Attending events focused on data center design, construction, and technology to stay abreast of emerging trends and best practices.
• Mentorship Programs: Participating in or leading mentorship initiatives within Gray AES to share knowledge and develop leadership skills.
• Cross-functional Training: Gaining exposure to Gray's other service lines (e.g., construction management, digital solutions) to develop a more holistic understanding of project operations.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section proactively identifies potential operational challenges within the role and links them to specific learning and development opportunities that enhance an operations professional's skillset and career trajectory.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Design Process & Management: "Describe your approach to managing the architectural design process for a large-scale data center project. How do you ensure quality control and adherence to schedule throughout the design phases?" (Focus on structured workflows, QA/QC protocols, risk mitigation).
• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How have you effectively collaborated with engineering teams, clients, and construction partners on complex projects? Provide an example of a time you resolved a significant interdisciplinary design conflict." (Highlight communication strategies, conflict resolution techniques, and stakeholder engagement).
• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Walk me through a situation where you identified an inefficiency in a design process and implemented a solution. What was the impact on project outcomes?" (Prepare a concise case study demonstrating analytical skills and process optimization).

Company & Culture Questions:

• Research Gray's portfolio, particularly their data center projects, and understand their integrated service model. Be prepared to discuss how your skills align with their mission and values.
• Consider how your collaborative style fits within a family-owned company that emphasizes long-term relationships and a positive work environment.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Concise Storytelling: Present each project case study within 5-7 minutes, focusing on the problem, your operational approach, key decisions, and measurable results.
• Visual Aids: Use high-quality visuals (renderings, key drawings, process flowcharts) sparingly to illustrate your points effectively.
• Process Emphasis: Clearly articulate the design processes you managed, your role in QA/QC, and how you ensured operational efficiency and cost control.
• Interactive Discussion: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your contributions, decision-making rationale, and how you would handle specific operational challenges at Gray.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides targeted interview preparation advice, focusing on the types of questions operations candidates can expect, emphasizing process, efficiency, and impact, and offering strategies for portfolio presentation that highlight operational competencies.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations-focused Architecture Design Manager position:

• Submit Your Application: Complete the online application through the provided link (grayae-gray.icims.com).
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight operational management experience, process optimization skills, QA/QC implementation, and specific achievements in architectural design, particularly within mission-critical or data center environments.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your experience with project management methodologies, budget control, team leadership, and proficiency in relevant design and collaboration software (Revit, AutoCAD, project management tools). Use keywords relevant to operations and design management.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Prepare specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage design processes, control costs, ensure quality, and lead teams effectively.
• Company Research: Thoroughly research Gray Architects & Engineers, LLC, understanding their company culture, values, project history, and their specific approach to the data center market. This will enable you to tailor your responses and showcase your fit within their operational framework.

⚠️ 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.