Senior Design Manager

Digital Realty

Sr. Design Manager leading complex design projects for Digital Realty's data center facilities.

Posted 7/20/2026full-timeDallas • Texas • 🇺🇸 United StatesSenior💰 $160,000 - $200,000 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

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.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Project ManagementDesign ReviewVendor ManagementBudget AnalysisTeam Leadership

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

Design InterpretationCommissioning ExperienceElectrical Systems KnowledgeMechanical Systems KnowledgeFire Detection Systems KnowledgeBuilding Codes FamiliarityFinancial AcumenConstruction Industry PracticesProposal EvaluationValue Engineering

Soft Skills

Team CollaborationCommunication SkillsRelationship BuildingSelf-MotivationIndependent Work

Tools & Technologies

MS OfficeAutoCAD

Certifications & Qualifications

Bachelor’s DegreeProfessional License (AIA, PE/PEng)

Industry Keywords

Design & Engineering GuidelinesRFP ProcessesOFCI EquipmentCommissioning ActivitiesConstruction DrawingsProject SchedulesBudget ForecastingConsultant Performance ManagementInternal Design InnovationContinuous Improvement

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

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

What you’ll need

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.

Benefits

Comp & perks

medical
dental
vision
life and AD&D insurance
401k match
disability benefits
wellness and education benefits
employee stock purchase plan
paid time off
holidays
more