Data Center Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Data Center Design Manager Company: AECOM Location: Arlington, Virginia, United States Job Type: Full-time Category: Engineering & Design Operations Date Posted: 2026-01-12 Experience Level: 10+ Years Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Spearhead the design and execution of complex colocation and hyper-scale data center projects, ensuring alignment with client objectives and industry best practices.
• Manage integrated design teams across multiple disciplines, including architecture, structural, MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing), security, and IT infrastructure.
• Drive project success through rigorous oversight of due diligence, campus planning, conceptual design, detailed design, and construction administration phases.
• Serve as a primary point of contact for clients and stakeholders, fostering strong relationships and facilitating clear, proactive communication throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior-level management position within AECOM's Data Center consulting practice, focusing on the critical design phase of hyper-scale and colocation facilities. The emphasis on "delivering a better world" and "trusted infrastructure consulting firm" suggests a company culture that values impactful, long-term solutions and client partnership, which will be important for candidates to understand. The role demands strong technical acumen in data center design, coupled with exceptional project and stakeholder management capabilities.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead and manage multi-disciplinary design teams throughout the entire project lifecycle, from initial site selection and due diligence through detailed design and construction administration.
• Develop and implement comprehensive project and program management plans for multi-site data center initiatives, ensuring adherence to scope, schedule, budget, and quality standards.
• Conduct and oversee site due diligence activities, including feasibility studies, risk assessments, and regulatory compliance checks for new data center locations.
• Facilitate and lead technical and financial proposal development for data center design projects, articulating AECOM's capabilities and value proposition.
• Proactively identify, assess, and resolve design-related issues and challenges, developing creative and efficient solutions to mitigate risks and maintain project momentum.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, trusting relationships with clients, understanding their evolving needs and providing strategic guidance and support.
• Effectively communicate project status, risks, and changes to internal AECOM teams and external clients, ensuring all stakeholders are informed and aligned.
• Ensure design deliverables across architecture, civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, fire protection, ICT, and BMS/EPMS systems meet client requirements and AECOM's quality benchmarks.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical leadership and client-facing project management. The emphasis on "multi-site project and program management plans" and "colocation and hyper-scale data center projects" indicates a need for experience in managing large-scale, complex, and potentially geographically dispersed initiatives. The requirement to develop "technical and financial proposals" suggests a business development component to the role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• A minimum of eight (8) years of relevant experience in data center design, engineering, or project management is required. Demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education will be considered.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in managing the design of colocation and/or hyper-scale data centers.
• Strong background in either electrical engineering or mechanical engineering principles as applied to critical facilities.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical information clearly and concisely.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multi-disciplinary design teams effectively.
• Proficiency in developing and managing multi-site project and program management plans.
• Experience in conducting site due diligence and campus planning for critical infrastructure projects.
• Strong problem-solving capabilities with a track record of developing creative and practical solutions.
• Client-facing experience with a focus on building and maintaining strong stakeholder relationships.

Preferred Skills:

• Master's degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.
• Possession of a Professional Engineer (P.E.) or Architecture License.
• A minimum of ten (10) years of combined design and/or project management experience in the data center sector.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification, demonstrating a commitment to process improvement and operational efficiency.
• Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Professional certification.
• Active or recent leadership involvement in data center and mission-critical industry trade organizations.
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously in dynamic, time-sensitive environments with minimal supervision.
• Exceptional interpersonal and presentation skills, capable of engaging diverse audiences.

📝 Enhancement Note: The preferred qualifications, particularly the P.E. or Architecture License, Lean Six Sigma, and Uptime Institute accreditation, signal a high standard of technical expertise and industry recognition expected for this role. The emphasis on "minimal oversight" and "dynamic, time-sensitive situations" points to a need for self-starters with proven resilience and adaptability in fast-paced environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies demonstrating successful management of complex data center design projects from inception through construction administration, highlighting scope, budget, and schedule adherence.
• Examples of developed multi-site project and program management plans, showcasing strategic planning and execution capabilities.
• Documentation of site due diligence processes and outcomes for critical facilities, illustrating thoroughness and risk identification.
• Evidence of client management and stakeholder engagement, with examples of building trust and resolving complex issues.
• Demonstration of technical problem-solving skills through detailed explanations of challenges faced and solutions implemented in past projects.

Process Documentation:

• Showcase experience in designing and implementing efficient workflows for integrated design teams, ensuring seamless collaboration across architectural, engineering, and specialty disciplines.
• Provide examples of process optimization initiatives undertaken, particularly those that improved project delivery timelines, cost-effectiveness, or quality outcomes in data center projects.
• Illustrate familiarity with industry-standard project management methodologies and tools used for tracking project progress, managing change orders, and ensuring design compliance.
• Demonstrate a structured approach to quality assurance and control within the design process, including peer reviews, constructability reviews, and value engineering exercises.

📝 Enhancement Note: Given the role's focus on design management and client delivery, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of project management principles, integrated design processes, and successful client outcomes in the data center sector will be crucial. The emphasis on "multi-site" and "hyper-scale" projects suggests a need for portfolio pieces that reflect experience in managing programs of significant scale and complexity.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• The estimated annual salary range for this position is USD $190,000 - $240,000. This range is based on the provided data and reflects the experience level, critical nature of data center design management, and location within the US market.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.
• Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.
• Disability benefits (short-term and long-term).
• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and various leaves of absence.
• Access to voluntary benefits, perks, and well-being resources.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.
• Business travel insurance.
• Service recognition awards for long-term contributions.
• Retirement Savings Plan and Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Flexible work options contributing to work-life balance.

Working Hours:

• This is a full-time position. Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, given the dynamic nature of data center projects and client demands, occasional extended hours or weekend work may be required to meet project deadlines. The "Hybrid" work arrangement suggests a flexible approach, balancing in-office collaboration with remote work capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range provided ($190,000 - $240,000 annually) is a strong indicator of the seniority and specialized expertise required for this Data Center Design Manager role in the US market. This range aligns with industry benchmarks for experienced engineering and project management professionals in critical infrastructure sectors, especially in high-cost-of-living areas like Arlington, VA. The extensive list of benefits provided by AECOM suggests a robust total compensation package designed to attract and retain top talent.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Consulting services industry, with a significant specialization in infrastructure development. Their focus on "delivering a better world" and "solving the world’s most complex challenges" indicates a mission-driven culture that prioritizes impactful and sustainable projects. Company Size: AECOM is a large, global firm, indicated by its Fortune 500 status and revenue of $16.1 billion in FY2024, employing over 50,000 professionals worldwide. This scale offers extensive resources, diverse project opportunities, and a broad professional network. Founded: While the founding date is not explicitly stated in the provided text, AECOM's long-standing presence and Fortune 500 status suggest a mature, established organization with a deep history in infrastructure consulting.

Team Structure:

• The Data Center Design Manager will likely be part of AECOM's Buildings & Places (B&P) business line, specifically within the DCS (Design, Consulting Services) group, focusing on critical facilities.
• The role involves leading cross-functional design teams comprising architects, civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing, security, fire protection, and ICT engineers.
• Collaboration extends to program managers, construction managers, and client representatives, requiring strong stakeholder management skills.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a client-centric approach, partnering with clients to solve complex infrastructure challenges.
• The company likely employs robust project management methodologies, integrating deep technical expertise with digital innovation.
• A focus on sustainability and resilience is a core aspect of their project delivery approach, reflecting global trends in infrastructure development.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company description positions AECOM as a global leader in infrastructure consulting with a strong commitment to societal impact ("delivering a better world"). This suggests that candidates who are motivated by contributing to significant, long-term projects and who value a collaborative, innovative environment will find AECOM a good fit. The "global team" aspect implies opportunities for diverse project exposure and international collaboration.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is a senior management position, requiring extensive experience in data center design and project leadership. It sits at a crucial intersection of technical expertise and strategic oversight, managing complex design processes and client relationships. Reporting Structure: The Data Center Design Manager will likely report to a senior director or vice president within AECOM's Data Center or Buildings & Places division, potentially overseeing a portfolio of projects rather than a direct team of permanent employees, managing external design consultants. Operations Impact: The role has a direct and significant impact on the successful delivery of critical data center infrastructure. Effective design management ensures projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, directly influencing client satisfaction, AECOM's reputation, and future business opportunities.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Expansion: Potential to move into program management for larger, multi-site data center portfolios, or leadership roles within AECOM's global data center practice.
• Specialization & Expertise: Opportunity to deepen expertise in specific areas like hyper-scale efficiency, advanced cooling technologies, or sustainable data center design through ongoing projects and professional development.
• Client Relationship Management: Develop into a key client executive role, managing strategic accounts and driving significant business development within the data center sector.
• Mentorship & Training: Act as a mentor to junior engineers and designers, contributing to AECOM's talent development pipeline and potentially leading training initiatives.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Data Center Design Manager at a firm like AECOM typically involves progressive responsibility, moving from managing individual projects to overseeing entire programs or business units. The emphasis on "upward career mobility" and "championing your growth and career ambitions" suggests that AECOM actively supports professional development and internal advancement for its senior staff.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM offers a "Hybrid" work location model. This indicates a blend of in-office presence for collaborative activities and remote work flexibility. The specific office location in Arlington, VA, suggests a professional, corporate environment typical of major engineering and consulting firms. Office Location(s): The primary location is listed as US - Arlington, VA - 3101 Wilson Blvd. AECOM is a global firm with numerous offices, so this role may also involve interaction or collaboration with teams in other AECOM locations globally.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid model fosters a flexible work environment, allowing for focused individual work at home and collaborative problem-solving, client meetings, and team synergy in the office.
• Employees have access to AECOM's extensive digital tools, design software, and collaboration platforms to support their work on complex data center projects.
• The environment likely encourages cross-functional collaboration, with opportunities to engage with experts from various engineering and design disciplines.

Work Schedule: While a standard 40-hour work week is typical, the demands of large-scale data center projects, especially in the fast-paced colocation and hyper-scale markets, may necessitate flexibility. The hybrid arrangement allows for optimization of personal and professional time, but project deadlines will drive the ultimate schedule.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Hybrid" work arrangement is a key feature, offering flexibility. Candidates should be prepared for a combination of remote work and in-office collaboration, likely requiring them to be present in the Arlington, VA office for key meetings, team sessions, and client interactions, while allowing for focused remote work for design tasks and documentation.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the minimum and preferred qualifications, with a focus on data center design management experience.
• Technical Interview: Likely involves in-depth discussions about your experience with data center design principles, project management methodologies, and specific technical challenges you've overcome. Be prepared to discuss your engineering or architectural background.
• Portfolio Review: A dedicated session to present and discuss your portfolio, focusing on key data center projects, your role in them, and quantifiable achievements. This is where you'll demonstrate your ability to manage design teams and deliver complex projects.
• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Assesses your leadership style, problem-solving approach, client management skills, and ability to thrive in a hybrid, dynamic environment. Questions may focus on how you handle conflict, manage change, and motivate teams.
• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and cultural alignment with AECOM's values.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Select Projects: Choose 3-4 of your most impactful data center design management projects that best represent your experience with colocation and hyper-scale facilities.
• Quantify Achievements: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the project's scope, budget, timeline, and any specific challenges you addressed. Use metrics to demonstrate success (e.g., % cost savings, % schedule improvement, specific technical innovations).
• Highlight Team Leadership: Showcase your ability to manage diverse design teams, coordinate disciplines, and foster effective collaboration.
• Demonstrate Problem-Solving: Detail a specific complex technical or project management challenge you encountered and how you developed and implemented a solution.
• Client Focus: Include examples of how you managed client expectations, communicated effectively, and built strong relationships.
• Process & Tools: Be ready to discuss the design processes and project management tools you utilized.

Challenge Preparation:

• Prepare to discuss how you would approach a typical scenario, such as managing a design change mid-project, resolving a conflict between engineering disciplines, or conducting due diligence for a new site.
• Practice articulating your thought process and problem-solving approach concisely.
• Be ready to discuss your understanding of AECOM's approach to data center design and sustainability.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely rigorous given the seniority and specialized nature of the role. A strong portfolio is essential, not just as a record of past work, but as a tool to demonstrate practical application of skills and strategic thinking in data center design management. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their technical background (MEP/Architecture) and leadership capabilities in detail.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency with leading project management platforms (e.g., Microsoft Project, Asana, Monday.com, Primavera P6) for planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and progress tracking of multi-site projects.
• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools facilitating collaboration on BIM (Building Information Modeling) models and design documents (e.g., Autodesk BIM 360, Revizto, Bentley ProjectWise).
• Data Analysis & Reporting Tools: Familiarity with tools for analyzing project performance data and generating reports (e.g., Microsoft Excel for advanced analysis, Tableau, Power BI for dashboard creation).

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM Software: While not a direct design role, understanding and leveraging BIM platforms (e.g., Autodesk Revit, AutoCAD) is crucial for managing design deliverables and coordinating disciplines.
• Data Visualization Tools: Ability to interpret and present data using tools like Tableau or Power BI to communicate project status, risks, and performance to stakeholders.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) for managing client relationships, tracking proposal development, and understanding client needs.
• Document Management Systems: Experience with robust document control systems (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex) for managing vast amounts of project documentation, ensuring version control and accessibility.
• Collaboration Suites: Proficient use of Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace for communication, document sharing, and team collaboration.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the core of the role is management, a strong understanding of the technology stack used in data center design and project management is vital. This includes proficiency in project management software, BIM-related collaboration tools, and data analysis platforms to effectively lead design teams and communicate with stakeholders.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Excellence in Delivery: A commitment to high-quality design and project execution, ensuring client satisfaction and adherence to AECOM's reputation as a trusted infrastructure advisor.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: Fostering a supportive environment where diverse teams can work together effectively to solve complex problems and achieve shared goals.
• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Encouraging creative thinking and the development of novel solutions to overcome technical and logistical challenges in data center design.
• Integrity & Ethics: Upholding the highest standards of professional conduct in all interactions with clients, colleagues, and partners.
• Sustainability & Impact: A focus on designing resilient and environmentally responsible infrastructure that contributes positively to communities and the future.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasizing seamless collaboration between architecture, engineering disciplines, and project management to ensure holistic project development.
• Client-Centric Partnership: Working closely with clients to understand their strategic objectives and translating them into effective design solutions.
• Open Communication & Feedback: Encouraging transparent communication channels and a culture where constructive feedback is valued to drive continuous improvement.
• Proactive Stakeholder Management: Engaging proactively with all internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment, manage expectations, and resolve issues swiftly.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values of "delivering a better world" and "trusted infrastructure consulting firm" suggest a culture that values long-term impact, client partnership, and professional excellence. Candidates should align with these values, demonstrating a commitment to quality, collaboration, and ethical conduct.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Pace of Innovation: The data center industry evolves rapidly; staying abreast of new technologies, cooling methods, and power efficiencies is a continuous challenge.
• Client Demands: Hyper-scale and colocation clients often have aggressive timelines and specific, sometimes evolving, requirements that demand high agility and responsiveness.
• Global Coordination: Managing design teams and client expectations across different geographies and time zones presents logistical and communication complexities.
• Integration of Disciplines: Ensuring seamless coordination and integration of diverse engineering and architectural disciplines on complex projects requires strong leadership and communication.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Industry Certifications: Opportunities to pursue advanced certifications like P.E., Uptime Institute accreditations, or Lean Six Sigma.
• Specialized Training: Access to AECOM's extensive training programs focused on data center design, project management best practices, and emerging technologies.
• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working on a variety of data center projects allows for exposure to different design approaches, client needs, and technical solutions.
• Leadership Development: Potential to take on program management roles, lead larger teams, and develop strategic client relationship management skills.
• Mentorship: Opportunities to mentor junior staff and learn from experienced senior leaders within AECOM's global network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are inherent to the high-stakes data center industry. Candidates should view these not as obstacles, but as opportunities to apply their problem-solving skills and leverage AECOM's resources for continuous learning and professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you managed a complex multi-site data center design project. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful integration across sites?" (Focus on your program management and coordination skills.)
• "How do you approach balancing client demands for speed with the need for rigorous design quality and risk mitigation in critical facilities?" (Highlight your decision-making process and client negotiation skills.)
• "Walk us through a challenging technical problem you encountered during the design phase of a data center. What was your approach to solving it, and what was the outcome?" (Demonstrate your technical acumen and problem-solving methodology.)
• "How do you foster collaboration and resolve conflicts among diverse engineering and design disciplines within a project team?" (Showcase your team leadership and interpersonal skills.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding of AECOM, how do you see this role contributing to the company's mission of 'delivering a better world'?" (Research AECOM's sustainability initiatives and major projects.)
• "Describe your preferred team environment and how you contribute to a positive and productive work culture, especially in a hybrid setting." (Align with AECOM's values of collaboration and excellence.)
• "How do you stay current with the latest trends and technologies in the data center industry?" (Show your commitment to continuous learning.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio projects as narratives, clearly outlining the problem, your solution, and the impact.
• Visuals: Use diagrams, schematics, or representative images (if permissible) to illustrate project complexity and design solutions.
• Metrics-Driven: Quantify achievements wherever possible (e.g., "reduced design iteration by 15%," "delivered project 2 weeks ahead of schedule," "achieved X% energy efficiency").
• Focus on Leadership: Emphasize your role in leading teams, managing stakeholders, and driving project success, rather than just individual technical contributions.
• Client Interaction: Be prepared to discuss how you managed client expectations and communication throughout the project lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of deep technical understanding of data center design, robust project management capabilities, and strong client-facing skills. Candidates should be ready to articulate their experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and tailor their responses to AECOM's stated values and industry focus.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Data Center Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal (jobs.smartrecruiters.com).
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight specific experience in colocation and hyper-scale data center design management, emphasizing your leadership in multi-site projects and your engineering/architectural background.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Select 3-4 key projects that showcase your most relevant skills and achievements. Be ready to discuss them in detail, focusing on quantifiable results and your role in overcoming challenges.
• Research AECOM: Understand AECOM's mission, values, and recent projects, particularly in the data center sector. Prepare to articulate how your experience aligns with their goals, such as "delivering a better world."
• Practice Interview Scenarios: Rehearse answers to common interview questions, focusing on leadership, problem-solving, client management, and technical expertise in data center design. Be ready to discuss your approach to hybrid work and team collaboration.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details, especially regarding specific interview stages and portfolio expectations, should be verified directly with the hiring organization or recruiter before making application decisions.