Senior Design Manager

Jobtailor; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Digital Realty is seeking an experienced Project Manager to lead design and construction efforts for data center builds and upgrades. You will guide architects, engineers, and vendors through the full lifecycle, ensuring cost control and schedule adherence.

The role requires deep knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems, strong client communication, and the ability to present executive-level updates to stakeholders.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience managing technically complex projects including design and/or commissioning.
• Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline; Professional License (AIA, PE/PEng) preferred.
• Ability to lead 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.
• Collaborative, self-motivated, able to work with minimal oversight; prior Digital Realty DEG experience preferred.

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee architects, engineers, consultants, and equipment suppliers through the full design lifecycle for both new builds and renovations.
• 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 value engineering focus.
• 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 (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; contribute to internal design innovation and continuous improvement efforts.

Skills

Team leadership

Vendor management

Budget analysis

Stakeholder management

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline

Professional License (AIA, PE/PEng) preferred

Tools

AutoCAD

MS Office

Job description

Responsibilities

• Direct and oversee architects, engineers, consultants, and equipment suppliers through the full design lifecycle for both new builds (greenfield, powered shell/core, data centers) and renovation/upgrade projects.
• Lead end-to-end RFP processes for Architectural/Engineering consultants and Commissioning Agents, including proposal evaluation and vendor selection recommendations.
• Manage consultant performance, including invoice review/approval and tracking of Design & Engineering Guideline (DEG) deviations across projects.
• Apply and uphold Digital Realty Design & Engineering standards to ensure alignment with industry 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 (scope, budget, schedule) in partnership 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.

Requirements

• 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.
• Strong team collaboration, communication, and relationship-building skills; self-motivated with the ability to work independently with minimal oversight; prior experience with Digital Realty projects and DEG knowledge preferred.

Core Competencies

Demonstrates expertise in managing complex design and construction projects, with a strong focus on vendor management, budget analysis, and adherence to industry standards. Proficient in leading cross-functional teams and delivering executive-level presentations while ensuring alignment with project objectives.