Data Center Architectural Design Lead

About the role

Worldwide Mission Critical is a global owner’s representation and project management company dedicated to the mission‑critical industry, helping companies deliver their data centers on time and under budget. Founded on the principle that the right team of experienced data center professionals will deliver great projects, our ability to provide oversight for all aspects of a project sets us apart.

As a Design team Architectural Lead, you will oversee the design and delivery of complex building projects within the data center sector, leading multiple design disciplines such as Civil, Structural, Landscape, and Architecture (CSLA). You will ensure the integration of functional, operational, and sustainable solutions, managing the design process from initial concept through to project completion. This role requires strong collaboration with cross‑functional teams, external partners, and consultants to ensure high‑quality, on‑time, and on‑budget delivery of innovative data center solutions.

Responsibilities

• Guide projects through every stage—from conceptual planning and schematic design to construction documents, administration, and final turnover—acting as the lead for CSLA disciplines.
• Collaborate with internal teams (Development, Procurement, Construction, Operations) and external stakeholders (AEoRs, contractors, regulatory bodies) to resolve challenges, mitigate risks, and ensure timely, cost‑effective delivery with a focus on safety, functionality, and sustainability.
• Research and develop innovative architectural solutions and emerging design trends to enhance scalability, sustainability, and operational efficiency of data center facilities.
• Oversee issuance of RFPs, evaluate vendor proposals, manage contract execution, and ensure design‑related documentation (change proposals, invoices, submittals, reports) aligns with project requirements.
• Ensure AEoR teams meet project milestones and quality standards, providing constructive feedback and fostering alignment across construction, operations, and other stakeholders during performance evaluations.
• Identify and address potential risks, proactively adjusting project schedules to meet evolving business demands.
• Participate in hands‑on testing, mock‑up reviews, and commissioning activities to ensure systems are installed and tested to the highest standards.
• Serve as a key point of contact between internal teams, consultants, and contractors, ensuring seamless communication and timely issue resolution across all project stages.
• Maintain comprehensive understanding of project status, decision‑making processes, and key milestones, ensuring accurate, up‑to‑date documentation is shared with stakeholders.
• Provide expert guidance on technical aspects of building systems design, ensuring compliance with industry standards and client specifications for mission‑critical environments.
• Evaluate existing facilities for feasibility of conversion to data center environments, understanding key drivers and non‑negotiables.
• Facilitate collaboration among technical disciplines to ensure integrated, cohesive system designs and alignment between architectural and other design teams.
• Lead onboarding and training of new design team members, fostering a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.
• Lead design, delivery, and quality meetings to resolve critical issues and drive successful project outcomes.
• Collaborate with the Construction Quality team, leading site reviews, system integration checks, issue resolution, and commissioning script review to ensure optimal system performance.
• Assist Facilities Engineering and Operations teams with technical guidance and knowledge transfer to ensure smooth system operation throughout the project lifecycle.

Requirements

• Licensed Architect with over 8 years of experience in the design, development, and operation of high‑performance, mission‑critical facilities.
• In‑depth knowledge of construction standards, building regulations, and safety protocols for large‑scale infrastructure projects.
• Strong experience in master planning data center campuses.
• Expertise in design tools such as Revit/BIM, Bluebeam, Autodesk, or similar software to deliver high‑quality design outcomes.
• Strong background in structural design for materials like steel, concrete, and mass timber, with deep understanding of architectural details and building systems.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to perform detailed analysis and troubleshooting across multiple design phases.
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and lead cross‑functional teams to successful completion.
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills, with ability to articulate design concepts, technical details, and project progress to diverse audiences, including stakeholders and leadership.