Design Manager (Data Centers)

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager (Data Centers)

Company: AECOM

Location: Bogota, Colombia

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Engineering / Design Management

Date Posted: March 02, 2026

Experience Level: 8+ Years (Mid to Senior Level)

Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the design and execution of complex data center projects, encompassing colocation and hyper-scale facilities, from initial site evaluation through construction administration.

• Manage multidisciplinary design teams, ensuring adherence to project budgets, schedules, and stringent quality standards for all engineering and architectural deliverables.

• Drive the development and implementation of repeatable project management plans for multi-site data center portfolios, focusing on efficiency and client satisfaction.

• Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment, promoting continuous improvement and professional development within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities group.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a mid-to-senior level, requiring significant experience in data center design and project management. The emphasis on "Enterprise Capabilities" suggests a focus on standardized, scalable solutions across multiple client sites. The "On-site" work arrangement in Bogota implies a need for local market understanding and direct client engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the complete design lifecycle for data center projects, including civil, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), security, and fire protection systems for both greenfield developments and existing facility upgrades.

• Conduct and lead site due diligence assessments to evaluate project feasibility and identify potential design challenges.

• Develop, implement, and enforce robust multi-site project and program management plans, ensuring consistency and quality across diverse projects.

• Administer and execute peer review processes and quality assurance checks, aligning with both client-specific and AECOM's corporate standards.

• Manage and maintain the project's Basis of Design (BOD) and oversee the localization process for design elements to meet regional requirements.

• Establish and manage a system for detecting, tracking, and resolving scope changes, design errors, and inconsistencies throughout the design and construction phases.

• Facilitate and lead meetings with clients, external stakeholders, and internal design teams to ensure clear communication and alignment.

• Manage and cultivate AECOM's data center design team, fostering a culture of camaraderie, collective ownership, and effective collaboration.

• Proactively manage and communicate project changes, risks, and issues to both internal teams and external clients.

• Develop and present comprehensive technical and financial proposals for new data center design projects and ongoing client support.

• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with key client stakeholders.

• Oversee the preparation and management of all project administration documentation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design oversight, project management rigor, and team leadership. The focus on "repeatable quality" and "multi-site project and program management plans" points towards a need for process standardization and scalability, crucial for enterprise-level data center clients.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Mechanical Engineering, or Electrical Engineering.

Experience:

• A minimum of eight (8) years of progressive experience in data center design and/or project management, or demonstrated equivalent experience and education.

• A minimum of eight (8) years specifically in colocation and/or hyper-scale data center design management and engineering is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proficiency in Data Center Design Management, covering all project phases from concept to construction.

• Expertise in Site Due Diligence and Campus Planning for critical infrastructure facilities.

• Strong understanding of Conceptual, Schematic, and Detailed Design principles for MEP, structural, architectural, security, and fire protection systems.

• Proven ability in Construction Documents preparation and Construction Administration.

• Exceptional Project Management skills, including budget, schedule, and resource allocation.

• Excellent Stakeholder Management and client relationship-building capabilities.

Preferred Skills:

• PMP (Project Management Professional) Certification.

• Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Professional certification.

• Experience with Mission-Critical facility design and operations.

• Familiarity with Colocation and Hyper-scale data center typologies.

• Active leadership role or recent engagement within relevant trade organizations for data centers and mission-critical facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required experience level and specific certifications (PMP, Uptime Institute) indicate a need for seasoned professionals who can immediately contribute to high-profile projects. The dual language requirement is critical for operating effectively in Colombia and interacting with international clients or teams.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a track record of successfully managing complex, multi-discipline data center projects from inception to completion, showcasing the ability to drive design processes and achieve project milestones.

• Provide examples of how you have implemented process improvements or standardized methodologies across multiple projects to enhance efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness in data center design.

• Showcase experience with various data center design typologies (e.g., colocation, hyper-scale, enterprise) and the unique design considerations for each.

Process Documentation:

• Evidence of developing and implementing detailed design process workflows, including clear roles, responsibilities, and quality control gates.

• Examples of creating and utilizing project management plans, basis of design documents, and construction administration protocols specific to data center projects.

• Demonstration of how you measure and report on design performance, team efficiency, and project outcomes using key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to the data center industry.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to present a portfolio that not only lists projects but also details the processes and systems they employed to achieve success, particularly in managing complex, multi-stakeholder data center environments. This includes demonstrating an understanding of quality assurance and a systematic approach to problem-solving.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans.

• Life insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage.

• Disability benefits to provide income protection.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) and various leaves of absence.

• Access to voluntary benefits, including additional insurance options and employee perks.

• Flexible work options and well-being resources to support work-life balance.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Business travel insurance for work-related travel.

• Service recognition awards for employee loyalty and contributions.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time work hours are expected, likely around 40 hours per week, with flexibility available as project demands dictate. The role is on-site, requiring regular presence in the Bogota office.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on publicly available data for engineering and project management roles in Bogota, adjusted for the specialized skills and experience required for data center design management. AECOM's comprehensive benefits package is a significant component of the total compensation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. AECOM operates globally, providing a wide range of professional services for infrastructure projects, including transportation, water, environment, energy, and buildings. The Data Centers business line is a key growth area.

Company Size: Over 50,000 employees globally. This indicates a large, established organization with extensive resources, established processes, and diverse career opportunities.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1910, signifying a long history of expertise and stability in the industry.

Team Structure:

• The Design Manager will be part of the Enterprise Capabilities group, which likely focuses on delivering standardized, high-quality design solutions across a portfolio of projects.

• The role involves managing a team of design professionals (architects, engineers) and collaborating closely with project managers, construction teams, and client representatives.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a data-driven approach to problem-solving and project execution, leveraging deep technical expertise.

• The company promotes collaboration and innovation to tackle complex infrastructure challenges.

• Emphasis is placed on delivering projects that create a positive and tangible impact, aligning with their mission to "deliver a better world."

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's scale and history suggest a structured environment with established best practices. The "Enterprise Capabilities" designation implies a focus on scalable, repeatable solutions, which is highly relevant for clients with multiple data center deployments.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the design and engineering function, specifically for data centers. It requires not only technical proficiency but also strong leadership, project oversight, and client-facing skills. It bridges the gap between pure technical design and broader program management for critical infrastructure.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Director or Vice President within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities or Data Center Business Unit. They will, in turn, manage a team of design engineers and architects. Cross-functional collaboration with Project Managers, Construction Managers, and client teams is essential.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct impact on AECOM's ability to secure and successfully deliver high-value data center projects. Effective design management ensures client satisfaction, repeat business, and adherence to financial targets, directly contributing to the company's revenue and reputation in the critical facilities sector.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization: Deepen expertise in hyper-scale or colocation data center design, potentially becoming a Subject Matter Expert (SME) for specific systems or technologies.

• Leadership: Advance into higher-level program management roles, overseeing larger, more complex data center portfolios or expanding into regional leadership positions.

• Business Development: Transition into roles focused on technical sales, proposal development, and client relationship management for new data center projects.

• Global Mobility: Leverage experience within AECOM's global network to work on international projects or transfer to different regions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role offers a clear path for career progression within the specialized and growing data center sector, moving from design leadership to broader program and business management responsibilities.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The position is designated as "On-Site," requiring the individual to work from AECOM's Bogota office. This typically means a professional office environment designed for collaboration, client meetings, and focused work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Bogota, Colombia. Specific details about the office address are provided in the job posting.

Workspace Context:

• The office environment is expected to facilitate collaboration among design teams, project managers, and other engineering disciplines.

• Access to AECOM's standard suite of design software, project management tools, and communication platforms will be available.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with colleagues and leadership to foster teamwork and knowledge sharing.

Work Schedule: A standard 40-hour work week is typical, but the demanding nature of data center projects may require flexibility and occasional extended hours to meet critical deadlines. The on-site requirement ensures direct engagement with project teams and stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Bogota suggests opportunities for direct mentorship from local leadership and active participation in the local engineering community. It also emphasizes the need for strong in-person communication and collaboration skills.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess minimum qualifications and relevant experience in data center design and management.

• Technical Interview: Expect in-depth questions regarding data center design principles, MEP systems, structural considerations, project management methodologies, and your experience with specific project types (colocation, hyper-scale). Be prepared to discuss your approach to quality control and risk management.

• Portfolio Review Session: A dedicated segment where you will present selected projects from your portfolio. Focus on complexity, your specific role, design challenges overcome, and the quantifiable outcomes (e.g., schedule adherence, cost savings, quality improvements).

• Behavioral/Situational Interview: Questions assessing your leadership style, team management approach, conflict resolution skills, and ability to work in a fast-paced, client-focused environment.

• Final Interview: May involve senior leadership to discuss strategic fit, long-term career aspirations, and cultural alignment with AECOM.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 3-5 projects that best showcase your data center design management expertise, highlighting variety in project type, scale, and complexity.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly define the scope, your role, key challenges, innovative solutions implemented, and measurable results (e.g., % budget adherence, schedule savings, energy efficiency improvements, client satisfaction metrics).

• Process Focus: Detail the design process, project management methodologies, team collaboration strategies, and quality assurance steps you employed.

• Visual Aids: Use clear diagrams, schematics, and renderings where appropriate to illustrate design concepts and project scope.

• Language Proficiency: Be prepared to present sections of your portfolio or answer questions in both Spanish and English, demonstrating your bilingual capabilities.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be ready for potential case studies or scenario-based questions. For example, you might be asked to outline your approach to managing a project facing significant delays, a major scope change, or a critical design conflict between disciplines.

• Prepare to articulate your understanding of AECOM's methodologies and how your experience aligns with their approach to delivering complex infrastructure projects.

• Familiarize yourself with current trends in data center design, such as sustainability, modular construction, and advanced cooling technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on a portfolio review and specific interview stages highlights the need for candidates to meticulously prepare their project examples, focusing on demonstrable results and process-oriented solutions relevant to data center infrastructure. Bilingual proficiency will likely be assessed throughout the process.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD & BIM Software: Proficiency with industry-standard tools such as AutoCAD, Revit, and potentially Navisworks for design, modeling, and clash detection.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with platforms like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar tools for scheduling, resource allocation, and project tracking.

• Collaboration Platforms: Experience with tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, or similar for team communication and document sharing.

• Data Center Design Tools: Knowledge of specialized software for power distribution analysis, cooling load calculations, or site planning may be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Proficiency in generating and interpreting reports from project management and design software.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how design projects integrate with client relationship management and sales pipelines is advantageous. Experience with proposal generation tools or document management systems is relevant.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, a strong foundation in standard engineering and project management software is assumed. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their familiarity with tools that support collaborative design processes and complex project execution in the data center sector.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all dealings with clients, colleagues, and project stakeholders.

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and collective problem-solving is encouraged.

• Innovation: Continuously seeking new and improved approaches to design and project delivery to meet evolving client needs and industry challenges.

• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality, reliable, and efficient solutions that exceed client expectations and contribute to AECOM's reputation.

• Sustainability: Integrating environmentally responsible design practices and solutions into data center projects.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive and transparent communication with all stakeholders is key.

• Emphasis on cross-functional teamwork, bridging gaps between design, project management, and construction.

• A culture of mutual respect and open feedback to continuously improve processes and project outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values emphasize a professional, collaborative, and results-oriented culture. Candidates should demonstrate alignment with these values through their communication and approach to teamwork, particularly in a client-facing role.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Diverse Stakeholders: Balancing the needs and expectations of clients, internal teams, regulatory bodies, and suppliers in complex data center projects.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with advancements in data center technology (cooling, power, IT infrastructure) to ensure designs are forward-thinking and efficient.

• Global Standards vs. Local Regulations: Navigating the complexities of applying international design standards while adhering to specific local building codes, environmental regulations, and labor laws in Colombia.

• Talent Acquisition and Retention: Building and maintaining a high-performing design team in a competitive market.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Access to AECOM's extensive internal training programs and professional development resources.

• Opportunities to pursue certifications such as PMP, Uptime Institute accreditations, or specialized engineering credentials.

• Mentorship from experienced senior leaders within AECOM's global data center practice.

• Exposure to a wide range of challenging and impactful data center projects, fostering continuous learning and skill expansion.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges presented are typical for senior roles in global engineering firms, requiring adaptability, continuous learning, and strong interpersonal skills. AECOM's commitment to employee development offers significant opportunities for professional growth.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex data center project you managed from concept to construction. What were the key design challenges, and how did you ensure successful delivery within budget and schedule?" (Focus on your process, problem-solving, and quantifiable results.)

• "How do you approach building and leading a multidisciplinary design team for critical infrastructure projects, especially when managing resources across different locations or disciplines?" (Highlight your leadership style, team-building strategies, and communication approach.)

• "Walk us through your process for conducting site due diligence for a new data center campus. What are the critical factors you assess?" (Demonstrate your systematic approach and technical understanding.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about AECOM's work in the data center sector, and why are you interested in joining our Enterprise Capabilities team?" (Research AECOM's recent projects and their approach to standardized design solutions.)

• "How do you foster a culture of collaboration and quality within your design teams?" (Align your answer with AECOM's stated values.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Prepare concise, impactful narratives for each selected project, emphasizing your specific contributions and the project's outcomes.

• Be ready to present in both Spanish and English, tailoring your language to the interviewer's preference if possible.

• Clearly articulate the design decisions, trade-offs considered, and the rationale behind your recommendations.

• Have supporting documentation or visuals ready, but focus on high-level explanations unless prompted for deeper detail.

• Be prepared to answer detailed technical questions about any aspect of your presented projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on showcasing a blend of technical expertise, project management acumen, leadership capabilities, and strong communication skills, with specific examples drawn from data center projects. Bilingual proficiency is a key differentiator.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Design Manager (Data Centers) position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided SmartRecruiters link.

• Tailor your resume: Highlight your experience in data center design management, project leadership, MEP/structural/architectural systems, and bilingual proficiency (Spanish/English). Quantify achievements wherever possible.

• Prepare your portfolio: Select projects that best demonstrate your capabilities in managing complex data center designs, emphasizing your process, problem-solving skills, and successful outcomes. Be ready to present this virtually or in-person.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's global infrastructure projects, their data center capabilities, and their company culture and values. Understand the significance of "Enterprise Capabilities."

• Practice interview responses: Prepare for technical, behavioral, and situational questions, focusing on data center-specific scenarios and your leadership approach. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

⚠️ 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.