Senior Project Manager - Data Center Construction - Various U.S. Locations

Russell Co.; Leawood (KS); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Russell Co. is hiring a Data Center Senior Project Manager to lead complex data center projects from concept through commissioning. You will drive execution, align stakeholders, and deliver high-quality outcomes for mission-critical infrastructure.

You will manage plans, schedules, budgets, risk mitigation, and procurement while mentoring project teams and supporting business development. This role is onsite in the Midwest with a strong emphasis on safety and client relations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• Substantial experience in commercial construction, design, finance and management.
• 8+ years of project management experience with a focus on data center or mission-critical infrastructure.
• Proven track record of delivering large scale construction projects on time and within budget.
• Strong understanding of data center systems: power, cooling, and network infrastructure.
• Experience with PM tools such as MS Project, Primavera or similar.
• Ability to lead in fast-paced, complex environments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Financial and business acumen within construction industry.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end delivery of data center projects, including new builds, expansions, and retrofits.
• Develop and manage project plans, schedules, budgets, and risk mitigation strategies.
• Oversee construction execution with field leadership to meet time, budget, and quality targets.
• Manage client and stakeholder relationships as the primary company representative.
• Support business development through client presentations, contract negotiations, and interviews.
• Oversee procurement, contractor performance, and contract financials.
• Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and industry standards.
• Lead and mentor project teams including Project Managers and Project Engineers.
• Drive continuous improvement in delivery processes and tools.
• Manage commissioning and handover to operations.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder management

Communication

Problem solving

Team mentoring

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent

Tools

MS Project

Primavera

Job description

Brief Description

Russell is a professional services firm providing construction and development services across the Midwest. Since its inception in 1983, Russell’s culture promotes a collaborative work environment that strives to exceed our clients’ expectations and provide life-time career opportunities for our professionals.

Headquartered in Davenport, Iowa, with offices in St. Louis and Springfield, Missouri and Leawood, Kansas, Russell has delivered more than $7 billion in projects across 34 states. We remain a market leader in our core markets, including new construction and complex additions and renovations.

At Russell, we are creating more than a project - we are building great people, relationships, and communities.

Life at Russell

The number one response we receive when we ask our team members what they like about Russell is the culture. Russell team members describe working here as being more flexible than any place they’ve ever worked. They feel supported and support each other. They have fun. They are empowered to get their work done how they see fit. And most of all, they know they can continue their careers here because of the rich development tools available to them. Life at Russell is full of opportunities.

How You’ll Contribute

As a Data Center Senior Project Manager, you will lead the successful delivery of complex data center projects while supporting strategic growth through strong client relationships and new business development. You’ll own projects from concept through commissioning—driving execution, aligning stakeholders, and ensuring high-quality outcomes across mission-critical infrastructure.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities

• * Lead end-to-end delivery of data center projects, including new builds, expansions, and retrofits
• * Develop and manage project plans, schedules, budgets, and risk mitigation strategies
• * Oversee construction execution in partnership with field leadership to ensure projects are delivered on time, on budget and to quality standards
• * Manage client and stakeholder relationships, serving as the primary point of contact and company representative
• * Support business development efforts, including client presentations, contract negotiations, and project interviews
• * Oversee procurement, contractor performance, and contract financials to protect company interests
• * Ensure compliance with safety, regulatory, and industry standards
• * Lead and mentor project teams, including Project Managers and Project Engineers
• * Drive continuous improvement in project delivery processes and tools
• * Manage commissioning and ensure successful project handover to operations

Requirements

Education and experience requirements include:

• * Bachelor’s degree in Construction Engineering, Construction Management, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
• * Substantial experience in commercial construction, design, finance and management required.
• * 8 + years experience of project management experience with a strong focus on data center or mission-critical infrastructure.
• * Proven track record of delivering large scale construction projects on time and within budget.
• * Strong understanding of data center systems, including power, cooling, and network infrastructure
• * Strong leadership and stakeholder management skills across technical and non-technical teams.
• * Experience with project management tools such as MS Project, Primavera or similar
• * Ability to lead in fast-paced, complex and ambiguous environments
• * Must be able to apply innovative and effective management techniques to maximize team performance.
• * Superior communication and interpersonal (tact, diplomacy, influence, etc.) skills are essential.
• * Persuasive speaking and ability to represent the company in a professional manner.
• * Advanced problem solving and negotiation capabilities.
• * Financial and business acumen within construction industry.
• * Proficiency in Microsoft Suite and industry specific software.
• * Must possess and maintain a valid Driver's License in good standing.