Senior Data Center Design Manager (Atlanta)

Digital Realty; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 160,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

Digital Realty is seeking a Sr. Design Manager in Atlanta to drive design and engineering standards for data center development. You will oversee multiple concurrent projects, lead A/E consultants, manage budgets and schedules, and ensure adherence to DEG guidelines while delivering value engineering opportunities.

You will coordinate with Delivery teams, review submittals, and present executive-level updates, shaping design through all project phases from concept to commissioning.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience managing technically complex projects, including direct design and/or commissioning experience.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline; Professional License (AIA, PE/PEng) preferred.
• Ability to lead and manage internal teams, external partners, and project stakeholders.
• Strong ability to interpret design/construction drawings, specifications, contracts, schedules, and detailed budgets.
• Advanced understanding of electrical, mechanical, security/monitoring, and fire detection/suppression systems.
• Comprehensive knowledge of design and construction industry practices, terminology, and contract structures.
• Familiarity with applicable building codes and regulatory requirements.
• Financial acumen with the ability to review, analyze, and provide recommendations on budgets and estimates.
• Proficiency in MS Office and AutoCAD.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee architects, engineers, consultants, and equipment suppliers through the full design lifecycle for both new builds and renovation projects.
• Lead end-to-end RFP processes for Architectural/Engineering consultants and Commissioning Agents, including evaluation and vendor selection recommendations.
• Manage consultant performance, including invoice review/approval and tracking of DEG deviations across projects.
• Apply and uphold Digital Realty Design & Engineering standards to ensure alignment with best practices and business objectives, with a focus on value engineering.
• Partner with Delivery teams to develop and review project schedules, budgets, and forecasts for design and construction activities.
• Review OFCI equipment submittals and provide recommendations to Delivery and Procurement teams.
• Lead design review sessions (e.g., page turns), evaluating drawings, Basis of Design, Sequence of Operations, commissioning plans, and testing scripts.
• Serve as the primary customer interface for build-to-suit projects, leading consultant teams and developing work letters with Sales and Business Development.
• Prepare and deliver executive-level presentations and monthly project reports, ensuring alignment with gating processes and seamless transition to Delivery teams.
• Build and manage vendor relationships; conduct site visits and participate in commissioning activities (Levels 4 & 5); contribute to internal design innovation and continuous improvement efforts.

Skills

Team leadership

Budgeting & cost control

Interpreting drawings & specs

Vendor management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in related field

Professional license (AIA, PE/PEng) preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

MS Office

Job description

Digital Realty is seeking a Sr. Design Manager in Atlanta to drive design and engineering standards for data center development. You will oversee multiple concurrent projects, lead A/E consultants, manage budgets and schedules, and ensure adherence to DEG guidelines while delivering value engineering opportunities.

You will coordinate with Delivery teams, review submittals, and present executive-level updates, shaping design through all project phases from concept to commissioning.