Senior Manager, Data Center Construction

About the role

Lead and manage the construction of data centers by colocation providers, ensuring all projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards, with a focus on base building and MEP infrastructure. This role involves analyzing projects independently to evaluate risk profiles, addressing gaps in risk identification and mitigation, and informing the business of potential impacts. You will work closely throughout design, construction, and commissioning to coordinate and integrate tenant fit-out projects with base building projects. The position may require travel up to 50% for client-driven or company projects and may involve working at various unanticipated locations throughout the U.S. No relocation is required, and telecommuting may be permitted.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the end-to-end project lifecycle for large-scale, mission-critical data center campuses, including multi-building greenfield developments.
• Lead, mentor, and manage multidisciplinary teams—including MEP Engineers, Superintendents, Commissioning Engineers, VDC Managers, VDC Engineers, OFCI Engineers, and field personnel—fostering a collaborative, high-performance culture.
• Manage all aspects of Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, and Fire Protection (MEPF) procurement, including vendor selection, bid evaluations, and contract negotiations.
• Oversee the preparation, coordination, and review of submittals, shop drawings, and Requests for Information (RFIs) to ensure accuracy and compliance with project specifications.
• Lead design coordination efforts by facilitating collaboration among engineers, contractors, subcontractors, and vendors to resolve conflicts and integrate MEPF elements within the overall project scope.
• Direct site development, including precision grading, underground utilities, erosion and sediment control, stormwater management systems, roadway paving, and other civil works.
• Collaborate with engineers, contractors, local authorities, and stakeholders to ensure installations meet engineering requirements and regulatory compliance.
• Apply industry best practices in project controls, quality assurance, and risk management to ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Manage the full lifecycle of start-up, energization, integrated testing, and commissioning activities for Levels 1 through 5 on complex, large-scale projects with phased turnover requirements.
• Enforce strict separation between completed and under-construction areas, ensuring compliance with client MOPs, security protocols, and approved change procedures.
• Ensure installation quality, scope alignment, and code compliance for Owner Furnished Contractor Installed (OFCI) and Contractor Furnished Contractor Installed (CFCI) equipment.
• Lead end-to-end Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) implementation across all project phases, including planning, design coordination, trade modeling, clash detection, logistics, safety planning, and on-site installations.
• Maintain strong professional relationships with owner representatives, design teams, Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), local jurisdictions, and trade partners.
• Create and execute integrated Master Project Schedules, coordinating MEPF, civil, and commissioning milestones using advanced planning tools.
• Oversee project financials and risk management, including budgeting, forecasting, cost controls, performance analysis, and change order administration.
• Implement and oversee quality control processes to ensure construction activities meet design specifications and industry standards.
• Serve as the primary point of contact between the company and colocation providers, facilitating clear and effective communication.
• Identify potential risks and develop mitigation strategies to ensure project success.
• Ensure all construction activities comply with relevant regulations, codes, and standards.
• Provide ongoing colocation provider evaluation for continuous improvement.
• Conduct regular project visits to monitor schedule, coordination, and quality throughout the project lifecycle.
• Manage direct reports, providing coaching and leadership for professional growth.

Requirements

A Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Civil Engineering, or a related technical field, followed by 10 years of progressive, post-baccalaureate experience in construction management or a related occupation.

Pay

Hiring range in USD: $129,958 - $251,999 per year. May be eligible for bonus and/or equity.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance, including expert medical opinion.
• Short-term and long-term disability insurance.
• Life insurance and AD&D.
• Supplemental life insurance (Employee/Spouse/Child).
• Health care and dependent care Flexible Spending Accounts.
• Pre-tax commuter and parking benefits.
• 401(k) Savings and Investment Plan with company match.
• Flexible Vacation for salaried employees (13 days annually for the first three years, increasing to 18 days annually thereafter; prorated for part-time employees working 20-34 hours per week).
• 11 paid holidays.
• Paid sick leave: 72 hours upon hire, refreshing annually with a maximum carryover cap of 112 hours.
• Paid parental leave.
• Adoption assistance.
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan.
• Financial planning and group legal services.
• Voluntary benefits, including auto, homeowner, and pet insurance.