Design Lead

Digital Realty

Design Lead overseeing data center development projects while implementing Digital Realty's design guidelines. Leading design teams and managing complex project requirements across multiple locations.

Posted 5/26/2026full-timeDallas • Kansas, Texas, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesSeniorWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Responsible for implementing Digital Realty Design & Engineering Guidelines & Standards.
Lead the design of multiple, concurrent projects including large-scale, multi-phase data center campus developments.
Direct and oversee architects, engineers, consultants, and equipment suppliers through the full design lifecycle.
Support large, multi-building campus deployments, ensuring design consistency, scalability, and phased expansion planning.
Lead end-to-end RFP processes for Architectural/Engineering consultants and Commissioning Agents.
Manage consultant performance, including invoice review/approval and tracking of Design & Engineering Guideline (DEG) deviations.
Apply and uphold Digital Realty Design & Engineering standards for alignment with industry best practices.
Partner with Delivery teams to develop and review project schedules, budgets, and forecasts.
Review OFCI equipment submittals and provide recommendations to Delivery and Procurement teams.
Lead design review sessions evaluating drawings, Basis of Design, Sequence of Operations, commissioning plans, and testing scripts.
Serve as the primary customer interface for large, hyperscale build-to-suit engagements.
Translate tenant-specific technical requirements into scalable, campus-aligned design solutions.
Prepare and deliver executive-level presentations and monthly project reports.
Build and manage vendor relationships; conduct site visits and contribute to internal design innovation.

Requirements

What you’ll need

7+ years of experience managing technically complex projects, including direct design experience, preferably within large-scale, multi-phase developments or mission-critical environments.
Experience supporting hyperscale or enterprise tenant-driven build-to-suit projects and/or campus-style deployments is strongly preferred.
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 across multiple concurrent projects or program phases.
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, particularly in high-availability data center environments.
Comprehensive knowledge of design and construction industry practices, terminology, and contract structures.
Familiarity with applicable building codes and regulatory requirements across various jurisdictions.
Financial acumen with the ability to review, analyze, and provide recommendations on budgets and estimates at both project and program levels.
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.

Benefits

Comp & perks

Highly competitive compensation package
Excellent benefits
Work with people from different business areas
Plenty of development opportunities
Supportive and inclusive environment
Opportunities to take on a variety of tasks and develop technical skills

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

design lifecycle managementproject managementdesign reviewbudget analysiscontract interpretationelectrical systemsmechanical systemssecurity systemsfire detection systemsbuilding codes

Soft Skills

leadershipteam collaborationcommunicationrelationship buildingself-motivationstakeholder managementvendor managementpresentation skillsanalytical skillsproblem-solving

Certifications

Bachelor's degreeProfessional License (AIA)Professional Engineer (PE/PEng)