Project Manager

nLighten; Milton Keynes; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

High-growth environment

Impactful role

Strategic influence

Hybrid work flexibility

Job summary

A European edge data center firm is seeking a Project Manager to lead a major data centre program. The successful candidate will ensure that projects are safely delivered on time while maintaining operational continuity. This role requires experience in data centre projects, strong MEP background, and familiarity with BMS systems. The firm offers significant growth opportunities and flexibility to work across various regions.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in data centre projects, preferably in live environments.
• Excellent understanding of CDM regulations and UK construction standards.
• Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Represent the client’s interests ensuring quality and compliance.
• Oversee M&E major works in a live data centre environment.
• Manage relationships, ensuring alignment and successful delivery.

Skills

Experience in data centre projects

Strong MEP background

Familiarity with BMS, fire, and security systems

Communication and leadership skills

Ability to work under pressure

Tools

Autodesk Construction Cloud

SharePoint

Job description

Project Manager

Company Profile

nLighten is a European platform of distributed edge data centers, designed to meet the growing demand for AI, 5G, and hybrid cloud deployments. As a rapidly expanding provider, we offer scalable colocation hubs and best-in-class energy solutions across Europe. Our innovative and sustainable approach to digital infrastructure ensures reliability, efficiency, and future‑ready solutions for our clients. nLighten’s current footprint is 34 data centers in 7 European countries, with the ambition to grow to 100 sites during the next 3‑4 years.

About the Role

We are seeking a Project Manager to join our client‑side team and lead Stage 3 onwards of a major data centre programme. This phase involves launching a single‑stage competitive tender with at least two contractors for a mix of M&E major works, including BMS, fire, and security systems, in a live Tier 3 data centre environment. The successful candidate will ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, and to the highest standards while maintaining operational continuity.

Key Responsibilities

• Represent the client’s interests at all times, ensuring quality, compliance, and value for money.
• Prepare and launch Stage 3 tender processes with multiple contractors.
• Oversee M&E major works in a live data centre environment, maintaining SLA availability and Tier 3 compliance.
• Review and define project scope, demarcation, and responsibilities using MEP and civil/architectural drawings.
• Manage client relationships, internal teams, and external contractors to ensure alignment and successful delivery.
• Provide on‑site leadership, ensuring compliance with CDM regulations, temporary works plans, and UK construction standards.
• Identify gaps and opportunities to expedite programmes and optimise work packages.
• Use digital collaboration tools, including Autodesk Construction Cloud (ACC) and SharePoint, for document control, mark‑ups, and coordination with PMO teams.
• Produce weekly progress reports, track blockers, and provide actionable next steps and recommendations.
• Maintain a project risk register and trace all risks back to cost and time impacts.
• Ensure adherence to all safety standards, regulatory requirements, and best practice guidelines.
• Proactively solve challenges without compromising safety, timelines, or quality.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven experience in data centre projects, preferably in live environments.
• Strong MEP background with the ability to manage contractors and consultants.
• Familiarity with BMS, fire, and security systems.
• Excellent understanding of CDM regulations and UK construction standards.
• Proficiency in ACC, SharePoint, and other digital collaboration tools.
• Strong communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and deliver results within tight deadlines.

Why Join Us?

• High‑growth environment: Be part of an expanding team with opportunities to grow laterally and vertically.
• Impactful role: Play a key leadership role in shaping project execution for a rapidly scaling data centre portfolio.
• Strategic influence: Work closely with senior leadership, mentoring junior team members and driving operational improvements.
• Hybrid work flexibility: Work across offices in the UK, France, Germany, or Central Europe, with regular travel to project sites.

If you have the right experience and are excited about contributing to the next evolution of edge data centres, we’d love to hear from you!

Apply now and be part of our journey toward a more connected, efficient, and sustainable digital future.

All selected candidates will undergo a background check to ensure a safe workplace, protect company assets, and comply with regulations.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

nLighten is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, and we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Even if you do not meet every requirement listed, we welcome your application. We particularly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.