Design Manager

About the role

The Datacenter Design Manager will lead the internal design coordination, management of engineering deliverables, and client-facing technical documentation for data center projects. This role is responsible for overseeing design changes, responding to Requests for Information (RFIs), managing drawing updates, and ensuring alignment between client requirements, engineering teams, and construction execution. Strong experience in data center or mission-critical facility design, along with proven leadership in coordinating multidisciplinary teams, is essential.

Responsibilities

• Manage the full lifecycle of architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and design deliverables for data center projects

• Review, track, and respond to client RFIs, design change requests, and requests for proposals or clarifications in a timely and accurate manner

• Coordinate design updates, revisions, and redlines across mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), structural, and architectural disciplines

• Lead internal design review meetings and facilitate resolution of design conflicts or discrepancies.

• Collaborate closely with external architecture/engineering firms, clients, and construction teams to ensure requirements are clearly communicated and met

• Maintain version control of drawings and documentation; ensure compliance with client standards, building codes, and industry best practices

• Identify potential design risks, propose mitigation strategies, and escalate issues as needed to project leadership

• Develop and maintain design schedules, track progress, and report on deliverables to stakeholders

• Mentor and manage a team of design coordinators, drafters, or junior engineers as the function grows

• Be directly responsible for engineering costs and value engineering exercises for overall cost of the program

Skills & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Architecture, Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, or Civil), or related field; Master’s degree or Professional Engineer (PE) license preferred

• 0+ years in architectural/engineering design management, with at least 5 years in data centers, mission-critical facilities, or large-scale hyperscale projects

• Proficiency in design and documentation tools (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, BIM 360, Bluebeam Revu)

• Deep knowledge of data center systems (MEP infrastructure, power distribution, cooling systems, structural requirements)

• Familiarity with design standards (Uptime Institute, ASHRAE, IBC) and permitting processes

• Exceptional organizational and project management abilities

• Strong communication skills for client interactions, RFI responses, and cross-functional coordination

• Proven leadership in managing teams and driving accountability in fast-paced environments

• Experience across power / utility environments to accommodate different RAM Analysis and costs for battery / capacitor ramp

• Occasional travel required for client meetings, site walks, design workshops, and project reviews

Process

• Intro call w/Molly Anderson, Sr Manager TA & People Ops

• Interview w/Lance Smith, VP of Datacenters

• Interview w/Mike McBrayer, Construction Manager

• Interview w/Bill Gauthier, Director of Critical Facilities

• Interview w/Margarida Garcia, COO