Design Manager for Data Center

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Design Manager for Data Center

Company: AECOM

Location: Bucharest, Romania

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Project & Design Management (Infrastructure/Data Centers)

Date Posted: 2026-04-27T07:23:36.594

Experience Level: 10+ Years (with specific degree and professional registration/certification requirements)

Remote Status: Hybrid (3 days in office minimum)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the end-to-end technical delivery and design process for hyperscale data center projects.

• Manage and coordinate multidisciplinary design teams to ensure high-quality project outcomes and adherence to international best practices.

• Drive business development initiatives, nurture client relationships, and secure new or repeat business within the data center sector.

• Champion digital transformation strategies and the adoption of new technologies within the design and project management functions.

• Ensure rigorous compliance with AECOM's Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is critical for AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities (EC) division, focusing on complex data center projects. The Design Manager will act as a key interface between local Romanian teams and global AECOM resources, emphasizing strategic project delivery and client engagement within a specialized infrastructure niche. The hybrid work model with a minimum of 3 days in office suggests a collaborative environment where team interaction and mentorship are valued.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Oversee the entire design lifecycle for hyperscale data center projects, from master planning and conceptualization through to detailed design and the production of construction documentation.

• Actively manage project teams, ensuring effective interdisciplinary coordination and collaboration among architects, engineers, and other specialists.

• Drive financial responsibility within projects, aiming for maximum profitability and ensuring alignment with AECOM's project delivery procedures and client scope agreements.

• Develop and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key senior client stakeholders, understanding their needs and proactively addressing queries.

• Lead business development efforts by participating in bid preparation, identifying market trends, and nurturing a client base to secure future work for the region.

• Provide expert advice on project and design management strategies to local management, ensuring adherence to corporate standards and best international practices.

• Conduct regular project audits and independent expert reviews of high-risk proposals and deliverables to ensure quality and prevent rework.

• Champion and implement digital transformation strategies within the discipline, embracing technological advancements to enhance project delivery.

• Maintain effective liaison with global practice leads to ensure optimal utilization of AECOM's global resources and expertise.

• Ensure all design and management activities comply with AECOM's HSE, QA, and QC requirements, promoting a culture of safety and quality.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus: deep technical oversight of data center design and robust project/client management. The emphasis on "technical excellence," "project/design management," and "client relationship management" indicates a senior role requiring a blend of subject matter expertise and strong commercial acumen. "Interdisciplinary Coordination" is a key functional requirement.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Honours degree in a built environment field (e.g., Architecture, Engineering, Planning, Quantity Surveying, Contracting) with a minimum of 19 years of relevant post-graduate experience.

• OR B-Tech degree in a built environment field with a minimum of 20 years of relevant post-graduate experience.

• OR National Higher Diploma in a built environment field with a minimum of 21 years of relevant post-graduate experience.

• OR National Diploma in a built environment field with a minimum of 22 years of relevant post-graduate experience.

Experience:

• Extensive post-graduate experience in managing complex infrastructure projects, specifically within the data center sector, is critical.

• Proven track record in leading multidisciplinary design teams and overseeing projects from inception to completion.

• Demonstrated experience in business development, client relationship management, and securing new projects.

Required Professional Registration/Certification:

• Registration as PrEng with ECSA (Engineering Council of South Africa), OR

• Registration as PrArch with SACAP (South African Council for the Architectural Profession), OR

• Registration as PrCPM with SACPCMP (South African Council for the Project and Construction Management Professions), OR

Required Skills:

• Advanced Design Management: Expertise in overseeing complex design processes for large-scale infrastructure, particularly data centers.

• Strategic Project Management: Proficiency in managing project scope, schedule, budget, and resources to ensure successful delivery.

• Data Center Sector Expertise: In-depth knowledge of hyperscale data center design principles, technologies, and construction requirements.

• Leadership & Team Management: Ability to lead, mentor, and coordinate multidisciplinary teams effectively.

• Business Development & Client Relations: Skills in client engagement, proposal development, and securing new business opportunities.

• Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of project profitability and financial management.

• Quality & Risk Management: Experience in implementing QA/QC processes and managing project risks.

• HSE Compliance: Thorough understanding and application of health, safety, and environmental regulations.

Preferred Skills:

• International Project Experience: Exposure to global project standards and diverse client requirements.

• Contract Negotiation: Experience in negotiating project contracts and scope agreements.

• Advanced Digital Tools: Proficiency in BIM, data analytics platforms, and project management software for enhanced visualization and control.

• Change Management Expertise: Ability to effectively manage scope changes and their impact on project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: The exceptionally high years of experience required (19-22+) combined with specific professional registration/certification requirements indicate this is a very senior leadership role. The specific registrations (ECSA, SACAP, SACPCMP, PMI) suggest a potential origin or alignment with South African professional standards, although the role is based in Romania. Candidates must possess at least one of these credentials.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrable examples of successful management of complex infrastructure or data center design projects, showcasing the full project lifecycle.

• Evidence of leading multidisciplinary teams, highlighting coordination strategies and conflict resolution.

• Case studies detailing the implementation of project management methodologies and their impact on project success (on-time, on-budget, quality).

• Documentation showcasing your approach to client relationship management and business development, including examples of secured projects or strategic client partnerships.

• Examples of quality assurance and control processes implemented on past projects, with measurable outcomes.

Process Documentation:

• Workflows demonstrating your approach to master planning and detailed design for large-scale facilities.

• Methodologies for interdisciplinary coordination and communication during the design phase.

• Protocols for change management, including scope definition, client agreement, and impact assessment.

• Examples of how you have driven digital transformation or integrated new technologies into design and project management processes.

• Frameworks for financial oversight and profitability management on complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates are expected to present a portfolio that not only lists past projects but also articulates their strategic approach to design management, team leadership, client engagement, and process optimization within the context of large-scale infrastructure and data center projects. Emphasis should be placed on demonstrating quantifiable results and adherence to best practices.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Design Manager with 19-22+ years of experience, holding professional certifications, and managing complex data center projects in Bucharest, Romania, the estimated annual gross salary range would be between €70,000 to €110,000. This estimate considers the seniority of the role, the specialized nature of data center design, AECOM's global standing as a major engineering consultancy, and the cost of living in Bucharest.

Benefits:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance: Comprehensive health coverage for employees and potentially dependents.

• Life Insurance and AD&D: Financial protection for beneficiaries.

• Disability Benefits: Income protection in case of long-term disability.

• Paid Time Off (PTO): Generous leave for vacation, personal days, and sick leave.

• Leaves of Absence: Policies for extended time off when needed.

• Voluntary Benefits: Options for additional insurance or services.

• Perks: Various employee discounts and lifestyle benefits.

• Flexible Work Options: Hybrid work model as described, balancing office and remote work.

• Well-being Resources: Programs and support for employee mental and physical health.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services.

• Business Travel Insurance: Coverage for work-related travel.

• Service Recognition Awards: Acknowledgment for long-term commitment.

• Retirement Savings Plan: A plan to help employees save for retirement.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week.

• The role operates within a hybrid model, requiring a minimum of three days per week in the Bucharest office, offering flexibility for the remaining workdays.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on research for senior engineering and project management roles in major international consultancies in Eastern European capitals, adjusted for the specialized data center sector. The benefits package listed is typical for large, multinational corporations like AECOM, providing a comprehensive safety net and support system.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting, Engineering, Architecture, Construction Management, and Program Management. AECOM operates globally across sectors like water, environment, energy, transportation, and buildings.

Company Size: Over 50,000 employees globally. This indicates a large, established organization with extensive resources, diverse expertise, and a structured hierarchy.

Founded: AECOM has a rich history, evolving through mergers and acquisitions, with its modern iteration dating back to the early 2000s but roots extending much further. This long-standing presence signifies stability and deep industry experience.

Team Structure:

• The role sits within AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities (EC) division, which functions as a global workshare and specialist service provider.

• The EC team comprises over 3,000 technical professionals across nine countries, supporting regional and Global Business Line project teams.

• The Design Manager will likely lead or be a key member of a project-specific team, reporting to a senior program or regional manager while coordinating with global practice leads.

Methodology:

• AECOM emphasizes a "Think and Act Globally" strategy, leveraging its worldwide talent pool for project delivery.

• A strong focus on digital adoption and transformation is evident in the EC division's mandate.

• The company adheres to rigorous international standards for Health, Safety, Environment (HSE), and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC).

• Project delivery is managed through established AECOM procedures, ensuring consistency and best practices across all projects.

• Data-driven decision-making and performance analysis are implicit in managing complex projects and client relationships.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture is built around delivering complex projects globally. The Enterprise Capabilities division specifically fosters a highly collaborative, cross-border environment. The "Freedom to Grow" philosophy suggests a supportive culture for career development and work-life balance, while the emphasis on hybrid work indicates a modern, adaptable approach to office presence.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: Senior Leadership / Principal Level. This role is positioned as a Design Manager for major data center projects, requiring extensive experience and professional accreditation. It implies significant responsibility for technical direction, team leadership, and client engagement.

Reporting Structure: The Design Manager will likely report to a Program Director, Regional Manager, or a senior leader within the Enterprise Capabilities division. They will also manage and coordinate assigned project teams, which may include other designers, project managers, and technical specialists. Close liaison with global practice leads is also a key reporting/collaboration element.

Operations Impact: The Design Manager's role is pivotal in ensuring the successful technical delivery of data center projects, directly impacting client satisfaction, project profitability, AECOM's reputation, and the company's ability to secure future work. They are instrumental in translating client requirements into executable designs that are safe, efficient, and compliant with standards.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in hyperscale data center design, emerging technologies, and sustainable design practices.

• Leadership Advancement: Progress to Program Director, Country Manager, or regional leadership roles within AECOM's Project Management Practice (PPM) or other business lines.

• Global Mobility: Opportunities to work on international projects or relocate to other AECOM offices worldwide.

• Business Development Leadership: Transition into a more senior business development or client relationship management role, focusing on strategic account growth.

• Mentorship & Training: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior staff and contributing to AECOM's internal training and development programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Design Manager at AECOM is geared towards senior leadership within project delivery and business development. The extensive experience requirement suggests that candidates are expected to bring a high level of established expertise, with growth opportunities focusing on expanding scope of responsibility, strategic influence, and leadership within the firm.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: AECOM operates modern office spaces designed to foster collaboration and innovation. The Bucharest office is part of their Enterprise Capabilities hub, suggesting a professional, well-equipped environment conducive to international project work.

Office Location(s): The primary location is Bucharest, Romania, specifically at 11-15 Tipografilor S. This location is part of AECOM’s established presence in the region, likely offering good accessibility and amenities.

Workspace Context:

• The hybrid work model encourages a blend of focused individual work at home and collaborative team sessions, client meetings, and strategic discussions in the office.

• AECOM likely provides access to advanced design and project management software, high-speed internet, and modern meeting facilities to support global project coordination.

• Opportunities for direct interaction with local and potentially global colleagues will be available during office days, fostering knowledge sharing and team cohesion.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week is complemented by the hybrid arrangement, allowing for some flexibility. However, given the nature of global project management and client demands, occasional work outside standard hours may be required to accommodate different time zones or critical project deadlines.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by a global, hybrid, and collaborative approach. The Bucharest office serves as a key hub for AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities, implying a professional setting with advanced technological support, emphasizing efficient project execution and cross-border teamwork.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

1. Initial Screening: HR or a recruiter will review applications to ensure minimum qualifications and professional registration/certification are met.

2. Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager focusing on your experience in data center design management, project leadership, and alignment with AECOM's values. Expect questions about your approach to complex projects and team management.

3. Technical/Team Interview: Interviews with senior technical leads or potential peers within the Enterprise Capabilities division. This stage will delve deeper into your technical expertise, project methodologies, and ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.

4. Portfolio Presentation / Case Study: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your most relevant projects from your portfolio, focusing on your contributions, challenges overcome, and quantifiable results. A specific case study related to data center design or project management might be presented.

5. Final Interview: Potentially with a senior director or executive, focusing on strategic fit, business development capabilities, and long-term vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Selectively: Choose 3-5 projects that best showcase your experience managing large-scale data center or complex infrastructure designs from inception to completion.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and the measurable outcomes (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, quality improvements, client satisfaction).

• Highlight Leadership: Emphasize your experience in leading and coordinating multidisciplinary teams, demonstrating your communication and problem-solving skills.

• Showcase Process: Detail your approach to master planning, detailed design, HSE compliance, QA/QC, and client management. Use diagrams or process flows if helpful.

• Address Business Acumen: Include examples of your involvement in business development, client relationship building, and financial management of projects.

• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical intricacies of data center design and construction, demonstrating your understanding of key systems and challenges.

Challenge Preparation:

• Data Center Design Scenario: Be prepared for a hypothetical scenario involving a complex data center project where you need to outline your initial approach to design management, team assembly, and risk assessment.

• Project Leadership Case Study: You might be given a problem related to a project that is facing delays, budget overruns, or interdisciplinary conflicts, and asked to propose solutions.

• Business Development Pitch: Practice articulating how you would approach securing new data center projects for AECOM in the Romanian market or a similar region.

• Digital Transformation Strategy: Be ready to discuss how you would leverage digital tools and technologies to improve design efficiency and project delivery for data centers.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to rigorously assess technical expertise, leadership capabilities, and business acumen. A strong, well-prepared portfolio that clearly articulates achievements and methodologies is crucial for success. Expect a multi-stage process involving various stakeholders.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Project Management Software: Proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com, or similar for project planning, scheduling, and tracking.

• Design Collaboration Platforms: Experience with platforms like Autodesk BIM 360, Revizto, or similar for managing collaborative BIM workflows and design reviews.

• Document Management Systems: Familiarity with systems for organizing, storing, and retrieving project documentation (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex).

• Data Center Design Software: While not explicitly stated, familiarity with specialized software used in data center design (e.g., for power distribution, cooling, structural analysis) would be beneficial.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BI Tools: Experience with Business Intelligence tools like Tableau, Power BI, or Qlik Sense for creating dashboards and reports on project performance, financial status, and key metrics.

• Reporting Frameworks: Ability to develop and present comprehensive project reports for senior management and clients.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Systems: Experience with CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce) for managing client relationships, tracking business development activities, and understanding client needs.

• Workflow Automation: Familiarity with tools or concepts for automating repetitive tasks in project management and design coordination processes.

• Integration Tools: Understanding of how different software systems can be integrated to streamline data flow and improve efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role demands proficiency in a range of digital tools essential for modern project and design management. While specific software names aren't listed, the emphasis on "digital transformation" suggests an expectation for candidates to be adaptable and experienced with current technologies used in large-scale project delivery and infrastructure design.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

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

• Collaboration: Fostering a team-oriented environment where diverse perspectives are valued and shared to achieve common goals.

• Excellence: Committing to the highest standards of technical quality, innovation, and client service in every project.

• Safety: Prioritizing the health and safety of employees, clients, and the public above all else.

• Inclusivity: Promoting a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels respected and has the opportunity to grow.

• Client Focus: Dedication to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building long-term partnerships.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: The role requires seamless collaboration across various engineering disciplines (structural, mechanical, electrical, civil), architecture, project controls, HSE, and commercial teams.

• Global Team Dynamics: Working effectively with remote teams across different time zones, cultures, and reporting structures.

• Proactive Communication: Emphasizing clear, consistent, and timely communication to ensure alignment and prevent misunderstandings.

• Mentorship and Knowledge Sharing: A culture that encourages senior staff to mentor junior team members and share best practices across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values emphasize global collaboration, technical excellence, and a strong commitment to safety and client satisfaction. The Enterprise Capabilities team likely embodies a fast-paced, solution-oriented culture where individuals are empowered to contribute to complex, international projects.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Global Teams: Coordinating diverse teams across different time zones, cultures, and regulatory environments presents significant logistical and communication challenges.

• Complexity of Data Center Design: Hyperscale data centers are incredibly complex, requiring deep technical knowledge and meticulous coordination of power, cooling, IT infrastructure, and building systems.

• Rapid Technological Evolution: The data center industry is constantly evolving with new technologies and efficiency standards, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

• Balancing Client Demands and Profitability: Meeting stringent client requirements for quality and schedule while ensuring project profitability requires strong negotiation and financial management skills.

• Implementing Digital Transformation: Driving adoption of new digital tools and processes within a large, established organization can face resistance and require significant change management effort.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Data Center Technologies: Access to training and projects focused on cutting-edge data center design, AI infrastructure, sustainable energy solutions, and advanced cooling technologies.

• Leadership Development Programs: AECOM offers extensive training for leadership roles, focusing on strategic management, client relations, and team building.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or maintaining advanced professional certifications relevant to project management, design, and data center specialization.

• Global Project Exposure: Opportunity to gain experience on high-profile, international data center projects, broadening your portfolio and global perspective.

• Mentorship & Networking: Access to a global network of experts and senior leaders within AECOM for mentorship and career guidance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to managing large-scale, technically complex, and globally distributed projects. The growth opportunities are substantial, leveraging AECOM's global reach and commitment to employee development, particularly in specialized fields like data center infrastructure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a complex data center design project you managed. What were the key technical challenges, how did you lead the multidisciplinary team to overcome them, and what was the final outcome?" (Focus on technical leadership, problem-solving, team coordination)

• "How would you approach building and managing client relationships for a major hyperscale data center project in a new market?" (Focus on client management, business development, strategic thinking)

• "AECOM is investing heavily in digital transformation. How would you champion and implement new digital tools and workflows within your design management team to improve efficiency and collaboration?" (Focus on innovation, change management, technology adoption)

• "Discuss your experience with Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) compliance and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) on large infrastructure projects. How do you ensure these are integrated into the design process?" (Focus on process rigor, risk management, compliance)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about AECOM and specifically our Enterprise Capabilities division and the data center sector?" (Demonstrate research and genuine interest)

• "How do you foster a collaborative and inclusive team environment, especially when working with globally dispersed teams?" (Align with AECOM's values)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, use a clear STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) or similar framework.

• Focus on Your Contribution: Clearly articulate your role, decisions, and impact, not just the project's overall success.

• Visualize Data: Use diagrams, charts, and key metrics to illustrate project scope, complexity, and performance. Show, don't just tell.

• Highlight Process & Methodology: Explain how you managed the design process, coordinated teams, and mitigated risks.

• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about technical aspects, decision-making rationale, and challenges encountered.

• Connect to AECOM: Briefly explain how your experience and approach align with AECOM's values and goals, particularly in data center development and global project delivery.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating a blend of deep technical understanding of data centers, strong project management fundamentals, proven leadership skills, and a strategic business mindset, all within the context of AECOM's global operations and values.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link provided on SmartRecruiters.

• Portfolio Customization: Prepare a digital portfolio that highlights 3-5 key data center or complex infrastructure design management projects. Ensure each project clearly details your specific role, technical contributions, team leadership, process application (design, HSE, QA/QC), and quantifiable results. Tailor the selection to emphasize hyperscale data center experience if possible.

• Resume Optimization: Update your resume to prominently feature your years of experience, professional registrations/certifications (PrEng, PrArch, PrCPM, PMP, etc.), and specific achievements in data center design management, project leadership, business development, and client relationship management. Use keywords from the job description naturally.

• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions. Prepare detailed responses to potential strategy and technical questions related to data center design, project management, team leadership, and digital transformation. Rehearse your portfolio presentation.

• Company Research: Thoroughly research AECOM's mission, values, recent projects (especially in the data center sector), and their Enterprise Capabilities division. Understand their global presence and commitment to innovation. Be ready to discuss how your skills and experience align with AECOM's strategic objectives and culture.

⚠️ 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.