Senior Interface Design Manager – Hyperscale Data Centre

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Interface Design Manager – Hyperscale Data Centre
Company: Parsons Corporation
Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Job Type: Full-Time
Category: Operations Management / Project Management / Design Coordination
Date Posted: October 29, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ Years
Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Oversees and drives the critical interface management processes for a large-scale hyperscale data center project, ensuring seamless integration of complex design elements.
• Leads cross-functional design coordination efforts, bridging the gap between engineering consultants, construction contractors, and client stakeholders.
• Facilitates proactive issue resolution through structured workshops and clash detection, minimizing project risks and delays.
• Develops and implements robust interface matrices and coordination schedules to maintain project momentum and deliver on aggressive timelines.
• Leverages Building Information Modeling (BIM) and advanced coordination tools to enhance design visualization and streamline communication.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Senior Interface Design Manager," the core responsibilities and required skills align with a specialized project management or operations management role focused on design integration within a large-scale, technical construction project. The emphasis on "interface management" and "design coordination" positions this as a critical operational function within the project lifecycle, directly impacting project delivery timelines and quality.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the comprehensive management of design interfaces across all project phases, from conceptualization through to construction completion for a 100-150MW hyperscale data center.
• Develop, implement, and meticulously maintain detailed interface matrices, coordination plans, and schedules to ensure all design disciplines and stakeholder inputs are aligned.
• Proactively organize and lead regular design integration workshops, clash detection sessions, and resolution meetings, fostering a collaborative environment for issue identification and problem-solving.
• Ensure the timely and effective resolution of all interface-related issues, discrepancies, and conflicts that could impact design integrity, construction sequencing, or project delivery timelines.
• Collaborate closely with BIM specialists and teams to integrate model-based coordination workflows, enhancing visualization, clash detection accuracy, and communication clarity.
• Serve as the primary liaison with utility providers, local permitting authorities, and other external stakeholders to ensure all external interface requirements are met and integrated into the project design.
• Support and actively participate in the change management process, ensuring all design modifications are properly documented, assessed for impact, and communicated across relevant interfaces.
• Contribute to design assurance processes by verifying that all design interfaces meet project specifications, regulatory requirements, and operational performance standards.
• Provide clear and concise reporting on interface management status, risks, and mitigation strategies to project leadership and key stakeholders.
• Ensure adherence to all relevant regional design codes, standards, and permitting processes throughout the design and construction lifecycle.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strong emphasis on proactive risk management and process adherence, common in large-scale engineering and construction operations. The role demands a structured approach to managing complex interdependencies, typical of operations management in high-stakes projects.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Architecture, Engineering (e.g., Mechanical, Electrical, Civil), or a closely related technical field.
• Chartered status or equivalent professional accreditation is highly preferred, signifying a high level of expertise and commitment to professional standards in engineering or construction management.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in design coordination, interface management, or a similar project management capacity.
• Demonstrated experience within the data center industry, industrial facilities, or other large-scale, complex infrastructure projects is essential for understanding the unique challenges and requirements.
• Proven track record of successfully managing multidisciplinary design processes and coordinating complex engineering and architectural elements.

Required Skills:

• Design Coordination & Interface Management: Expertise in developing and executing comprehensive interface management plans, matrices, and coordination schedules for large, complex projects.
• BIM Proficiency: Strong understanding and practical experience with BIM tools such as Autodesk Revit and Navisworks for model aggregation, clash detection, and design visualization.
• Stakeholder Engagement & Communication: Exceptional ability to effectively communicate with diverse stakeholders, including consultants, contractors, clients, and regulatory bodies, fostering strong working relationships.
• Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills: Proven capacity to identify, analyze, and resolve complex technical and logistical issues in a fast-paced environment, with a focus on data-driven decision-making.
• Multidisciplinary Design Processes: In-depth knowledge of architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) design principles and their interdependencies.
• Utility Integration: Understanding of utility requirements, connections, and integration challenges specific to high-demand facilities like hyperscale data centers.
• Fast-Track Delivery: Experience managing design and construction processes within aggressive project timelines, requiring agility and efficient workflow management.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience managing interfaces across multiple concurrent contractor and consultant packages on a single project.
• Demonstrated ability to thrive and deliver results in high-pressure, rapidly evolving work environments.
• Familiarity with regional design codes, permitting processes, and regulatory landscapes in Saudi Arabia or similar GCC markets.
• Experience with specialized Interface Management Systems (IMS) software.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) or equivalent certification.

📝 Enhancement Note: The distinction between required and preferred skills emphasizes the need for practical, hands-on experience in highly technical and demanding project environments. The preference for regional knowledge and specific software points to a need for domain expertise beyond general project management.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Interface Management Case Studies: Documented examples of successfully managed complex design interfaces on previous large-scale projects, showcasing the process, challenges, and outcomes. This should include examples of interface matrices developed and utilized.
• Coordination Workflow Demonstrations: Evidence of structured coordination processes, including workshop facilitation, clash detection reports, and resolution tracking. Visual aids like BIM model screenshots or walkthroughs demonstrating clash resolution are highly beneficial.
• System Integration Examples: Documentation or detailed descriptions of how different design systems (e.g., MEP, IT infrastructure, structural) were integrated and coordinated to ensure functional compatibility and operational efficiency.
• Problem-Solving Scenarios: Case studies illustrating how significant interface issues were identified, analyzed, and resolved, demonstrating analytical capabilities and strategic problem-solving.

Process Documentation:

• Workflow Design & Optimization: Examples of established workflows for managing design interfaces, including clear steps for identification, documentation, communication, tracking, and resolution.
• Implementation & Automation: Evidence of implementing and utilizing BIM and other relevant technologies to support and automate coordination processes, improving efficiency and accuracy.
• Measurement & Performance Analysis: Methods used to measure the effectiveness of interface management processes, track resolution times, and identify areas for continuous improvement.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on interface management and design coordination, a portfolio demonstrating practical application of processes and tools is crucial. It should highlight the candidate's ability to manage complexity, drive collaboration, and achieve tangible results in a project operations context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:
Given the Senior level, specialized nature of the role (Hyperscale Data Centre), and location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, a competitive salary range is estimated between SAR 400,000 - SAR 650,000 per annum (approximately USD $106,000 - $173,000). This range is based on industry benchmarks for senior engineering and project management roles in major infrastructure projects within the GCC region, considering the high demand for specialized data center expertise.

Benefits:

• Comprehensive Health Insurance: Full medical, dental, and vision coverage for the employee and eligible dependents.
• Relocation Assistance: Support for international relocation, including visa processing, flights, temporary accommodation, and shipping allowances for qualified candidates.
• Annual Flights: Return airfare allowance for international employees to their home country.
• Accommodation Allowance: A housing allowance or company-provided accommodation to offset living costs in Riyadh.
• Performance Bonuses: Potential for annual performance-based bonuses tied to project milestones and company profitability.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for advanced training, certifications, and attendance at industry conferences to foster continuous learning and skill enhancement.
• Retirement Savings Plan: Contribution to a provident fund or similar retirement savings scheme.
• Paid Time Off: Generous annual leave allowance, public holidays, and sick leave.

Working Hours:
The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, from Sunday to Thursday, with flexibility often available due to the demanding nature of large-scale projects. Overtime may be required during critical project phases, with compensation or time-off-in-lieu provided as per company policy and local labor laws.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, requires consideration of the local cost of living, demand for specialized skills in the booming data center sector, and typical expatriate compensation packages in the region. Benefits are tailored to attract international talent for such a significant project.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Engineering & Construction, with a strong focus on Technology and Infrastructure development. Parsons is a major player in designing and building complex infrastructure, including smart cities, transportation systems, and defense facilities. Their involvement in hyperscale data centers signifies a strategic expansion into critical digital infrastructure.
Company Size: Parsons Corporation is a large, publicly traded company with over 16,000 employees globally. This size indicates a well-established corporate structure, robust processes, and significant resources, offering stability and opportunities for career advancement.
Founded: Parsons was founded in 1944. This long history signifies a deep-rooted expertise, a proven track record, and a stable organizational foundation, suggesting a culture that values experience and long-term vision.

Team Structure:

• The project team will likely be structured around key functions, with the Senior Interface Design Manager reporting into a Project Director or Senior Project Manager.
• The interface management function will operate as a critical hub, coordinating with dedicated design management teams, engineering disciplines, BIM specialists, and construction leads.
• Close collaboration with client representatives, data center operations teams, and external consultants will be a daily operational requirement.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data from BIM models, coordination reports, and project metrics to inform interface management strategies and problem-solving.
• Agile Project Execution: Embracing agility in project delivery, particularly in managing the fast-track nature of hyperscale data center construction, adapting to changes and optimizing workflows.
• Collaborative Workflow Practices: Fostering a team-oriented approach where open communication, knowledge sharing, and proactive collaboration are paramount to achieving seamless design integration.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: Parsons' established presence and focus on large-scale infrastructure projects suggest a corporate culture that values professionalism, technical excellence, and structured project execution. The emphasis on agility and innovation within this framework is key for a fast-track data center project.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior-level position within the project operations and management hierarchy. It sits above typical design engineers or BIM coordinators, focusing on the strategic coordination and integration of all design-related activities. The "Manager" title signifies leadership responsibilities for the interface management function.
Reporting Structure: The Senior Interface Design Manager will likely report to a Project Director, Program Manager, or a Senior Construction Manager, depending on the overall project organizational structure. They will, in turn, lead and mentor a team of interface coordinators or BIM specialists.
Operations Impact: This role has a direct and substantial impact on the operational success of the hyperscale data center project. Effective interface management is crucial for preventing costly design clashes, ensuring constructability, meeting utility demands, and ultimately delivering a functional, high-performance data center on time and within budget. The quality of design integration directly influences the long-term operational efficiency and reliability of the facility.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Progression to Project Director, Program Manager, or Head of Design Management for future large-scale projects within Parsons' portfolio.
• Specialization Deepening: Becoming a recognized expert in hyperscale data center design and construction, potentially leading to consulting roles or advisory positions.
• Cross-Disciplinary Expertise: Gaining broader exposure to construction operations, commissioning, and handover processes, leading to a more holistic project management skillset.
• International Mobility: Opportunities to work on similar mega-projects in other regions where Parsons operates.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role is positioned as a critical leadership function within project operations, offering significant growth potential in a rapidly expanding sector. The emphasis on impact and strategic importance highlights the value of this specialized operational role.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is primarily based on-site at the project location in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, within a dedicated project office environment. This is essential for close coordination with construction teams, consultants, and stakeholders.
Office Location(s): The primary work location is Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, specifically at the Tamkeen Tower, with regular site visits to the hyperscale data center construction location.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Project Hub: The project office will serve as a central hub for all project stakeholders, fostering a dynamic and collaborative environment where designers, engineers, construction managers, and client representatives work in close proximity.
• Technology-Rich Environment: Access to advanced BIM software, coordination platforms, high-performance computing for model processing, and robust communication tools will be standard.
• Interdisciplinary Interaction: Frequent opportunities for direct interaction and knowledge exchange with a diverse range of technical professionals, including electrical engineers, mechanical engineers, structural engineers, IT specialists, and construction foremen.

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, with standard business hours. However, due to the fast-track nature of hyperscale data center projects, extended hours, weekend work, and potentially shift work may be required during critical construction phases to maintain project momentum and meet deadlines. This requires a flexible approach to managing one's time and workload.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site, project-driven nature of the work environment dictates a hands-on, collaborative, and often demanding schedule. This context is vital for candidates to understand the operational realities of managing large construction projects in a specific geographic location.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application to assess alignment with the core experience and qualifications.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions focusing on your experience with interface management, BIM coordination, data center design, and handling complex multidisciplinary projects. Expect scenario-based questions.
• Case Study/Presentation: You may be asked to present a portfolio of your previous work, focusing on a specific complex interface management or design coordination challenge you successfully resolved. This is where your portfolio's strength will be tested.
• Behavioral & Cultural Fit Interview: Assessment of your communication style, problem-solving approach, leadership potential, and how you align with Parsons' values and the project team's collaborative ethos.
• Final Interview: Potentially with senior project leadership or hiring managers to discuss overall fit and strategic contribution.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Highlight Impact: For each case study, clearly articulate the challenge, your specific role and actions, the tools/processes used, and the quantifiable positive outcomes (e.g., avoided clashes, time saved, cost efficiencies).
• Showcase Process: Detail your systematic approach to interface management. This includes your methods for developing interface matrices, conducting workshops, managing RFIs related to interfaces, and resolving clashes.
• Visual Evidence: Incorporate relevant visuals such as screenshots of BIM models showing clashes, diagrams of interface matrices, or project timelines where interface coordination was critical.
• Tailor to Data Centers: If possible, include examples specific to data center projects, highlighting your understanding of critical systems like power, cooling, and network infrastructure.
• Conciseness: Present your portfolio in a well-organized and digestible format. Focus on quality over quantity, selecting the most impactful and relevant examples.

Challenge Preparation:

• Interface Matrix Design: Be prepared to discuss how you would structure an interface matrix for a specific scenario (e.g., coordinating power distribution between multiple vendors).
• Clash Resolution Scenarios: Anticipate questions about how you would handle conflicting design requirements from different disciplines or contractors.
• Stakeholder Negotiation: Prepare to discuss strategies for managing disagreements or conflicting priorities among various project stakeholders.
• BIM Coordination Strategy: Be ready to explain your approach to using BIM for coordination on a large-scale project.

📝 Enhancement Note: The emphasis on portfolio presentation and case studies is critical for this role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate their practical experience and problem-solving capabilities through concrete examples that highlight their operational expertise in design coordination.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Autodesk Revit: For architectural and engineering design modeling.
• Autodesk Navisworks: Essential for model aggregation, clash detection, 4D scheduling, and visualization across multiple disciplines.
• Interface Management Systems (IMS): Potentially specialized software for tracking, managing, and reporting on design interfaces and their status. Examples might include tools like CEMAR, Aconex, or custom-built solutions.
• Project Management Software: Tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, or similar for developing and managing overall project schedules, including interface milestones.

Analytics & Reporting:

• BIM 360/Autodesk Construction Cloud: For cloud-based collaboration, document management, and BIM model coordination.
• Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets: For creating and managing interface matrices, tracking logs, and basic data analysis.
• Data Visualization Tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI): Potentially used for creating dashboards to report on interface status, clash metrics, and resolution progress.

CRM & Automation:

• Collaboration Platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack): For real-time communication and team collaboration.
• Document Management Systems (e.g., SharePoint, Aconex): For managing project documentation, drawings, and specifications.
• Email Clients (e.g., Outlook): For formal communication and record-keeping.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency with BIM tools, particularly Revit and Navisworks, is non-negotiable. Experience with dedicated interface management systems and robust project management/collaboration platforms is highly advantageous for this operational role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all coordination efforts and stakeholder interactions, ensuring transparent and honest communication.
• Excellence: A commitment to delivering high-quality design integration and coordination, striving for accuracy, efficiency, and the successful completion of project objectives.
• Innovation: Encouraging the adoption of new technologies and methodologies, such as advanced BIM workflows, to improve design coordination processes and outcomes.
• Collaboration: Fostering a spirit of teamwork and mutual respect, where open communication and shared responsibility are key to overcoming complex challenges.
• Safety: Prioritizing safety in all design considerations and coordination efforts, ensuring that the final facility is safe to construct, operate, and maintain.

Collaboration Style:

• Proactive & Engaged: Actively seeking out potential interface issues and engaging with relevant parties early in the design process.
• Data-Centric: Relying on BIM data and project metrics to drive discussions and resolutions, ensuring objectivity.
• Solution-Oriented: Focusing on collaborative problem-solving rather than assigning blame, working towards practical and effective solutions.
• Cross-Functional: Regularly interacting with diverse teams across engineering disciplines, construction, procurement, and client operations to ensure holistic project alignment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's stated values and the inherent demands of a large-scale project suggest a culture that prioritizes technical rigor, teamwork, and a results-driven approach. Candidates should demonstrate how their personal values and collaboration style align with these expectations.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Complexity: The sheer scale and multidisciplinary nature of a 100-150MW hyperscale data center project present inherent complexity in coordinating numerous design interfaces.
• Fast-Track Environment: Balancing the need for rigorous coordination with aggressive project timelines requires exceptional organizational skills and the ability to make timely decisions.
• Stakeholder Alignment: Ensuring all stakeholders (clients, multiple consultants, various contractors, utility providers) are aligned and responsive can be a significant challenge.
• Technical Integration: Coordinating highly specialized systems (e.g., high-density power distribution, advanced cooling systems, intricate network cabling) requires deep technical understanding.
• Geographic & Cultural Nuances: Working in a new region may present challenges related to local practices, communication styles, and regulatory frameworks.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced BIM & Coordination Techniques: Deepen expertise in cutting-edge BIM workflows, clash detection strategies, and potentially VR/AR applications for design review.
• Data Center Specialization: Gain in-depth knowledge of hyperscale data center design principles, operational requirements, and emerging technologies.
• Project Leadership: Develop strategic project management and leadership skills through managing a critical function on a mega-project.
• International Project Experience: Acquire valuable experience working on large-scale international projects, enhancing global career prospects.
• Professional Certifications: Opportunities to pursue advanced certifications in project management, BIM, or data center design.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the potential challenges and recognizing the significant growth opportunities is crucial for candidates to assess their suitability and career trajectory with this role and company. The role offers a steep learning curve with substantial rewards.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and managing an interface matrix for a complex hyperscale data center project. What are the key elements you would include?" (Focus on process, detail, and stakeholder input.)
• "How would you facilitate a clash resolution meeting between conflicting design proposals from an electrical consultant and a mechanical contractor, ensuring a timely and satisfactory outcome?" (Emphasize facilitation skills, problem-solving, and compromise.)
• "What are the critical design interfaces in a hyperscale data center, and what specific challenges do you anticipate in coordinating them?" (Demonstrate domain knowledge and foresight.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What do you know about Parsons Corporation and our involvement in large-scale infrastructure projects?" (Research Parsons' recent projects, values, and strategic direction.)
• "How do you foster collaboration and ensure effective communication among diverse teams and stakeholders on a high-pressure project?" (Align your response with Parsons' collaborative values.)
• "How do you measure the success of your interface management efforts, and what KPIs would you track for this project?" (Focus on quantifiable results and operational efficiency.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, clearly define the "Situation," "Task," "Action," and "Result" (STAR method).
• Quantify Impact: Wherever possible, use numbers to demonstrate the value of your work (e.g., "Reduced design clashes by X%", "Saved Y weeks in construction schedule," "Minimized risk of Z cost overrun").
• Showcase Process Flow: Use diagrams or flowcharts to illustrate your systematic approach to interface management and coordination.
• Technical Depth: Be prepared to discuss the technical aspects of the interfaces you managed, especially concerning power, cooling, and IT infrastructure for data centers.
• Engage Your Audience: Make your presentation interactive. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your process, decisions, and outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating not just theoretical knowledge but practical, hands-on experience in managing complex operational challenges within large projects. The portfolio presentation is a key opportunity to showcase this expertise.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the Parsons Corporation careers portal via the provided link.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight specific experience in interface management, design coordination, BIM, and large-scale project execution, using keywords from the job description such as "hyperscale data centre," "interface management," "BIM," "Revit," "Navisworks," and "fast-track delivery." Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most relevant work samples, focusing on case studies that demonstrate your ability to manage complex design interfaces, resolve clashes, and improve project delivery through effective coordination. Ensure it's well-organized and ready for presentation.
• Research Parsons: Understand the company's mission, values, recent projects (especially in infrastructure and technology), and their approach to project management and innovation.
• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your experience using the STAR method for behavioral questions and be ready to discuss technical scenarios related to design coordination and interface management in data centers.

⚠️ 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.

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