Sr. Project Development Manager

About Our Client

The organization operates in the data center infrastructure industry, focusing on providing sustainable, secure, and reliable solutions that support the scaling of digital operations with an emphasis on environmental and social responsibility. A partner company specializes in identifying and developing optimal data center sites, aiming to reduce lead times and risks by preparing sites for construction readiness. The team's culture values excellence, inclusivity, and core principles such as being nice, smart, honest, and passionate.

About the Opportunity

The Sr. Project Development Manager leads the development process for new and expanding data center campuses, managing projects from site acquisition through to delivery of construction-ready parcels. This role is critical in coordinating due diligence, entitlements, permits, incentives, and infrastructure delivery while managing budgets and schedules to reduce project risk. The position requires expertise in development and technical understanding to align approvals, utility readiness, and commercial requirements with project goals.

Responsibilities

• Lead land development planning and execution from site control to pad-ready parcels, managing scope, schedule, budget, and risk.
• Develop and implement development strategies including grading, stormwater management, access, utilities, and phased delivery.
• Manage commercial aspects, including contract negotiations with utilities, contractors, government officials, and stakeholders.
• Lead negotiations for economic development incentives and tax incentives with governmental entities.
• Oversee community and stakeholder engagement, addressing concerns and promoting project benefits via presentations and public forums.
• Support early-stage site due diligence and acquisition.
• Direct technical due diligence and translate findings into mitigation plans and project impacts.
• Manage entitlement and permitting processes by coordinating internal teams, external counsel, and consultants.
• Plan and oversee off-site and on-site infrastructure delivery including utilities and roadway improvements.
• Develop and manage budgets and schedules, procure and oversee consultants, and handle invoicing and change management.
• Career with utilities and agencies to secure capacity and align project timelines.
• Maintain development pro formas and cost models to support investment and operational decisions.
• Establish project governance, lead cross-functional meetings, and document key project information.
• Collaborate with multiple internal teams to align development with master planning and customer requirements.
• Manage community and agency relationships to secure approvals and ensure compliance.
• Handle incentive applications with state and local jurisdictions.
• Integrate environmental, health, safety, and sustainability objectives into development plans.

Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in land development, renewable energy or power generation development, or civil/infrastructure project delivery for industrial, mission-critical, or large-scale commercial projects; data center experience preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Real Estate, Planning, Business, or related field, or equivalent experience.
• Strong communication, contract drafting, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills with diverse groups including municipalities and utilities.
• Proven leadership of multi-disciplinary teams delivering entitled and permitted pad-ready sites.
• Working knowledge of utility infrastructure and delivery (power, water/wastewater, etc.).

Pay Range and Compensation Package

The pay range and compensation package for this role will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and other relevant factors.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Our client is an equal opportunity employer. They celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or national origin.