Mission-Critical Data Center Program Lead

GBA Team; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 120,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, vision insurance

401(k) with company match

Paid company holidays and flexible PTO

Job summary

GBA is seeking a Data Center Owner’s Representative to lead mission-critical projects from site acquisition through turnover. You will act as the Owner’s trusted partner, coordinating with architects, engineers, contractors, and operations to ensure on-time delivery, budget discipline, and top-quality performance.

The role demands deep MEP/civil/structural knowledge, strong financial acumen, and proven leadership on fast-track data center initiatives with regional/national travel.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in CM/Engineering/Architecture or related field required.
• 7–10+ years managing large-scale construction projects, data center experience preferred.
• Oversight of projects $100M+ with fast-track delivery experience.
• Strong communication and stakeholder-management abilities required.

Responsibilities

• Serve as primary Owner advocate across design, construction, commissioning and turnover.
• Lead Owner-side meetings, steering committees, and milestone reviews with clear direction.
• Align execution with Owner objectives, standards, and risk policies.
• Oversee contractor coordination, submittals, RFIs, and change orders.
• Monitor schedule, budget, and QAQC; escalate issues with recommendations.
• Ensure safety, environmental, and compliance requirements on site.

Skills

Communication skills

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or Architecture

Certifications: PE, PMP, CxA, LEED AP (or equivalent)

Tools

Procore

Bluebeam

MS Project

Primavera P6

Job description

GBA is seeking a Data Center Owner’s Representative to lead mission-critical projects from site acquisition through turnover. You will act as the Owner’s trusted partner, coordinating with architects, engineers, contractors, and operations to ensure on-time delivery, budget discipline, and top-quality performance.

The role demands deep MEP/civil/structural knowledge, strong financial acumen, and proven leadership on fast-track data center initiatives with regional/national travel.