Data Center Design Lead

About the role

The Design Manager will implement Digital Realty Design & Engineering Guidelines & Standards and lead the design of multiple, concurrent projects. This includes supporting large-scale, multi-phase data center campus developments and complex, tenant-driven build-to-suit programs.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee architects, engineers, consultants, and equipment suppliers through the full design lifecycle for both new builds and renovation/upgrade projects.
• Support large, multi-building campus deployments, ensuring design consistency, scalability, and phased expansion planning across long-term development programs.
• Lead end-to-end RFP processes for Architectural/Engineering consultants and Commissioning Agents, including proposal evaluation and vendor selection recommendations.
• Manage consultant performance, including invoice review/approval and tracking of Design & Engineering Guideline (DEG) deviations across projects.
• Apply and uphold Digital Realty Design & Engineering standards to ensure alignment with industry best practices and business objectives, with a focus on value engineering, repeatability, and speed-to-market.
• Partner with Delivery teams to develop and review project schedules, budgets, and forecasts for design and construction activities, with a focus on fast-track and phased campus delivery models.
• Review OFCI equipment submittals and provide recommendations to Delivery and Procurement teams, ensuring alignment with program-level standards and long-lead procurement strategies.
• Lead design review sessions (e.g., page turns), evaluating drawings, Basis of Design, Sequence of Operations, commissioning plans, and testing scripts across multiple concurrent builds.
• Serve as the primary customer interface for large, hyperscale build-to-suit engagements, leading consultant teams and developing detailed work letters (scope, budget, schedule) in partnership with Sales and Business Development.
• Translate tenant-specific technical requirements into scalable, campus-aligned design solutions while balancing standardization and customization.
• Prepare and deliver executive-level presentations and monthly project reports, ensuring alignment with gating processes and seamless transition to Delivery teams.
• Build and manage vendor relationships; conduct site visits and participate in commissioning activities (Levels 4 & 5); contribute to internal design innovation, standardization efforts, and continuous improvement across program delivery.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience managing technically complex projects, including direct design experience, preferably within large-scale, multi-phase developments or mission-critical environments.
• Experience supporting hyperscale or enterprise tenant-driven build-to-suit projects and/or campus-style deployments is strongly preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline; Professional License (AIA, PE/PEng) preferred.
• Ability to lead and manage internal teams, external partners, and project stakeholders across multiple concurrent projects or program phases.
• Strong ability to interpret design/construction drawings, specifications, contracts, schedules, and detailed budgets.
• Comprehensive knowledge of design and construction industry practices, terminology, and contract structures.
• Familiarity with applicable building codes and regulatory requirements across various jurisdictions.
• Financial acumen with the ability to review, analyze, and provide recommendations on budgets and estimates at both project and program levels.
• Proficiency in MS Office and AutoCAD.
• Strong team collaboration, communication, and relationship-building skills; self-motivated with the ability to work independently with minimal oversight; prior experience with Digital Realty projects and DEG knowledge preferred.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Civil, Structural, Architectural, Mechanical, Electrical, Public Health Engineering, or Construction Management - Ideally Chartered in a relevant discipline.
• Minimum 7-10 years’ data Center design experience, preferably in a multi-disciplinary or owner-operator context.
• Experience with large developments and multi-project delivery.
• Familiarity with change control, gating processes, and commercial/contractual obligations.

Skills

• Technical proficiency in electrical, mechanical, security/monitoring, and fire detection/suppression systems, particularly in high-availability data center environments.
• Advanced understanding of design and construction industry practices, terminology, and contract structures.
• Knowledge of applicable building codes and regulatory requirements across various jurisdictions.
• Financial acumen with the ability to review, analyze, and provide recommendations on budgets and estimates at both project and program levels.
• Proficiency in MS Office and AutoCAD.
• Strong team collaboration, communication, and relationship-building skills; self-motivated with the ability to work independently with minimal oversight; prior experience with Digital Realty projects and DEG knowledge preferred.

Benefits

Our rapidly evolving business sector offers the opportunity to be part of a courageous and passionate team who work together to understand and meet the changing needs of our global customers. Join us and you’ll be part of a supportive and inclusive environment where you can bring your whole self to work. As part of our team, you’ll get to work with people from different business areas, challenge the way we do things and put your ideas into action. We’ll also give you plenty of development opportunities so you can build a rewarding and successful career with us.

Pay

Our compensation philosophy is designed to reward our employees for achieving the values and objectives aligned to the company's overall goals and values. We offer a highly competitive compensation package, excellent benefits, and an environment that recognizes and rewards your contributions.

Schedule

We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your needs and preferences.