Data Center Project Manager - White Space Fit Out

Align Communications; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company in technology infrastructure solutions is seeking a Data Center Project Manager in Chicago. This role involves overseeing construction projects related to data centers, ensuring quality and schedule compliance. The ideal candidate will have strong project management skills and relevant experience in mission-critical projects.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits

Paid time off

Paid training

Performance bonuses

Qualifications

• 6+ years of related construction management experience.
• 5+ years managing large, complex mission-critical projects.

Responsibilities

• Oversee project management and construction activities.
• Monitor project progress, updating schedules and managing client expectations.
• Resolve scope issues with subcontractors.

Skills

Project Management

Communication

Data Analysis

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering

Construction Management

Job description

Data Center Project Manager - White Space Fit Out

Chicago, IL

Join the Team!

Is technology your passion? Do you want to work with smart, forward-thinking individuals? Do you want to grow in a career you love?

At Align, our professionals are the key to our success. We don’t just hire talent; we invest in exceptional people who are forward-thinking, results-driven, and passionate about what they do. We’re a group of tech-savvy professionals motivated by making an impact. Our culture offers unbounded opportunities that celebrate the passions, skills, and ideas of our team—work hard, play hard, be smart!

We believe great communities lead to great companies. That’s why we offer a dynamic workplace where you feel inspired, engaged, and innovative. We provide opportunities to train in leading technologies, make an industry impact, and acquire valuable new skills, whether on client sites or in our regional offices.

Position Overview

Align specializes in data center white space services. We are a white space fit-out general contractor managing data center fit-outs nationwide. Our services include designing layouts, overhead support systems for cable pathways and electrical systems, power striping/redundancy planning from PDU’s to cabinet receptacles, conduit pathways, and low-voltage structured cabling infrastructure. As a Data Center Construction Project Manager, you will oversee the build of electrical and mechanical distribution from critical upstream equipment to compute, storage, and network infrastructures. You will interpret design intent and customer expectations and ensure successful implementation. You will be onsite daily, interacting with trades and subcontractors, managing schedule and quality control in the field.

• This is a full-time salaried position with competitive pay, comprehensive benefits, paid time off, paid training, and performance bonuses.
• The role is based in the greater Chicago area, focusing on local projects. Some travel outside Chicago (approximately 25%) may be required.

Key Job Responsibilities

The Data Center Construction Manager will oversee project management and construction activities related to new builds or capital projects, owning scope, quality, schedule, and budget. Typical daily tasks include:

• Interfacing with general contractors during bidding, award, execution, and closeout phases
• Monitoring project progress, updating schedules, communicating changes, and managing client expectations
• Managing construction projects aimed at increasing data center resiliency
• Resolving scope issues with subcontractors
• Managing construction documents, submittals, RFIs, change orders, and invoicing
• Reporting key construction metrics to team and management
• Driving troubleshooting and root-cause analysis for equipment failures

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering, Construction Management, or equivalent, or 6+ years of related construction management experience
• 5+ years managing large, complex mission-critical projects involving mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems; Data Center experience preferred
• Strong general contractor and vendor management skills (RFPs, bidding, change orders, quality control, RFIs)
• Excellent documentation, communication, and data analysis skills
• Ability to interpret construction specifications and drawings
• Knowledge of building codes and regulations (Life Safety, BOCA, NFPA, NEC, OSHA)
• Willingness to travel as needed (~25%)

Preferred Qualifications

• Understanding of electrical and mechanical principles related to data centers
• Experience with data center or critical infrastructure construction
• Value engineering skills to reduce costs without compromising quality
• Experience with power management and monitoring systems
• Certifications such as PE, LEED, or CCM are a plus

PM25

About Align

Align is a leading global provider of technology infrastructure solutions, designing and deploying from desktops to data centers, including managed IT services. Our professional services include consulting, design, project management, engineering, and support across various industries. We are a Microsoft Tier 1 CSP and Gold Partner, committed to delivering innovative solutions and building long-term client relationships.

To apply, submit your resume, cover letter, or relevant files (pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf). Please include your mailing address, LinkedIn profile, and how you heard about this position. Indicate your current location relative to the job site and whether you require sponsorship. Confirm your availability for travel (~20%). This role primarily focuses on projects in Northern Virginia but may require extensive travel.