Data Center Design Manager

About the role

The Data Center Design team is responsible for the architectural and infrastructure design standards across CoreWeave's global portfolio, ensuring facilities are highly scalable, efficient, and optimized to support next-generation, high-density compute workloads. The team drives the entire design lifecycle from early-stage site feasibility through final technology fit-out, establishing the foundation for seamless construction and long-term operational success.

Responsibilities

• Manage the design and coordination of multiple data center projects concurrently, from concept through detailed design, including Greenfield construction projects, tenant fitouts, build-to-suit projects in existing facilities, renovation projects, equipment upgrades, and end-of-life replacements.
• Oversee the work of Professional Consultants (Architects, Engineers) and Equipment Suppliers during the design process.
• Act as the primary point of contact for all design-related items for assigned projects, coordinating closely with Data Center Providers and their Contractors, Architects/Engineers (A/E firms), along with our internal stakeholders to ensure seamless communication and alignment throughout the design process.
• Coordinate with internal Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) across various disciplines, including electrical, mechanical, LV/IT, and BMS, to ensure project requirements, technical specifications, and solutions are properly aligned, integrating specialized expertise into the design process as needed.
• Apply CoreWeave Design & Engineering Guidelines and industry best practices to ensure alignment with company objectives and emphasize value-engineering for optimal cost and performance.
• Track and document any deviations from the Basis of Design throughout the project lifecycle, coordinating with internal teams and external consultants.
• Work with the Construction Management team to prepare, review, and monitor project schedules, budgets, and forecasts for design and construction expenditures.
• Review and evaluate OFCI (Owner-Furnished, Contractor-Installed) equipment submittals, providing recommendations to the Construction Management team and Procurement teams.
• Participate in page-turn meetings with consultants, providing feedback on designs, Sequence of Operations, Basis of Design documents, commissioning plans, and testing scripts.
• Assist with RFPs for A/E consultants and commissioning agents, evaluation of proposals, selection of vendors, and oversight on alignment with project budgets and schedules, while reviewing/approving consultant invoices.
• Prepare and deliver detailed project reports to both executive leadership and project teams, track project budgets, schedules, scope objectives, and progress, ensuring alignment with CoreWeave’s gating process and smooth handoff to the Construction Management team for ongoing management.
• Conduct site visits during construction to review design implementation, assess construction progress, and ensure adherence to design specifications, quality standards, and project requirements.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including Capacity, Network Engineering, Construction, Operations, Supply Chain and Technical Project Management to ensure alignment with business objectives and project deliverables. Serve as a liaison between internal teams and external consultants or vendors, ensuring clear and effective communication.
• Contribute to internal design team meetings, proposing and exploring new technologies or design concepts to enhance project outcomes. Stay up to date with industry trends and integrate innovative solutions into project designs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering (MEP discipline preferred).
• Professional Engineering (PE) license is a plus.
• 7+ years of experience in data center engineering or design with a proven track record of successfully completing data center design projects.
• Strong knowledge of data center infrastructure systems, including cooling systems (air-cooled chiller plants, water-cooled chiller plants, liquid cooling), power distribution, UPS systems, generators, familiarity with Building Management/Automation Systems (BMS), and an understanding of LV/IT design.
• Experience with large-scale, high-density data centers and cloud infrastructure, including familiarity with power, cooling, and other critical infrastructure systems.
• Prioritize and manage complex projects with strong project management and organizational skills, ensuring successful project delivery on time and within budget.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate technical concepts to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple projects and competing priorities while maintaining a high level of attention to detail.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with a focus on developing efficient, cost-effective solutions to complex design challenges.
• Professional certifications (e.g., Uptime Institute, BICSI, LEED, or similar) are a plus.