Preconstruction Director (Data Centers)

About the role

At Jacobs, we’re challenging today to reinvent tomorrow by solving the world’s most critical problems for thriving cities, resilient environments, mission-critical outcomes, operational advancement, scientific discovery, and cutting-edge manufacturing, turning abstract ideas into realities that transform the world for good. Our People & Places Solutions business reinforces our drive to improve the lives of people everywhere and epitomizes the "why" of what we do—the tremendous positive impact and value our solutions bring to communities and society.

We’re looking for an experienced and collaborative Preconstruction Director to drive growth and provide leadership for our global Data Center market, supporting our Greenville, South Carolina office. As a passionate leader, you’ll leverage your people management skills to help team members discover what inspires them, nurturing their purpose and guiding them forward. Your role keeps our company connected, and we’ll support you with what you need to be successful.

Responsibilities

• Lead, direct, develop, communicate, and implement strategic goals for the Data Center business unit.
• Reshape and create a construction operations team capable of executing EPCM and CM projects, with the goal of expanding an engineering-centric model to full project delivery.
• Set the safety performance standard for the business unit.
• Lead, guide, direct, and evaluate the work of the Construction leadership team.
• Identify market trends and applications for existing and new technologies.
• Monitor and support the pursuit of viable business opportunities for profitable growth.
• Support Business Development with new and prospective pursuits.
• Represent and lead in design-build pursuits that may involve construction partners to deliver with Jacobs as AE services provider.
• Drive growth in gross margin as a percentage of revenue.
• Supply resources and training necessary to assess, screen, and develop business opportunities and optimize utilization of resources.
• Develop strong relationships with internal and external clients, and with engineering and matrix counterparts.
• Act as a key participant in contract discussions.
• Oversee financial performance of projects and performance against the established business plan.
• Collaborate across lines of business and participate in various meetings and forums as necessary.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science in an Engineering discipline, Construction Management, or in lieu of a degree, at least 10+ years’ additional experience in positions with progressive accountability.
• 20 years’ construction delivery experience (Design Build, CM, PMCM, EPCM, lump-sum EPC work, etc.).
• Working knowledge of the sales process, including client presentations.
• Breadth of experience in multiple markets including Electronics, Battery, Data Centers, EV Giga Factory, and Manufacturing.
• International experience (desired but not required).
• Willingness to travel extensively as needed.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and basic life insurance.
• 401(k) plan with company stock purchase options at a discount.
• Eligible employees may enroll in a deferred compensation plan or the Executive Deferral Plan.
• Unlimited U.S. Personalized Paid Time Off (PPTO) policy for full-time salaried/exempt employees.
• Seven paid holidays and caregiver leave.
• Certain roles may be eligible for additional rewards, including merit increases, performance discretionary bonus, and stock.

Pay

The base salary range for this position is $179,100.00 to $235,125.00. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training.

Job posted on September 14, 2025. Onsite employees are expected to attend a Jacobs Workplace on a full-time basis, as required by the nature of their role.