Oversee all aspects of data center development from early-stage site prospecting through to ready for construction
Manage identification of optimal data center locations considering power availability, fiber access, environmental and regulatory requirements, and long-term strategic value
Coordinate land acquisition and negotiations with landowners, real estate agents, and legal teams
Lead efforts to secure discretionary, ministerial, and environmental permits from local, state, and federal authorities
Develop and present permit strategies, track permit efforts, and present at hearings as needed
Take ownership of development schedules and budgets, ensuring thorough planning and risk management to deliver projects efficiently, within scope and cost parameters
Conduct and coordinate site studies, environmental surveys, geotechnical investigations, and diligence reports to validate site viability and reduce project risk
Work closely with internal and external engineering teams to develop scalable, resilient, and sustainable data center designs
Collaborate with utility providers and interconnection specialists to secure robust power supply and redundant connectivity for each facility
Foster strong relationships with local officials, community leaders, customers, and other stakeholders
Oversee contract obligations in key project documents, ensuring terms are met and risks are addressed proactively
Lead project meetings with internal and external stakeholders, including engineering, permitting, legal, finance, construction, real estate, external consultants, and commercial teams
Support business development teams through diligent reporting and analysis of development pipeline and project status
Coordinate additional resources such as outside consultants and contractors, managing expenses and optimizing use of expertise throughout project development
Research emerging data center markets and support identification of new development prospects
Transition fully developed and permitted projects to the execution team for construction
Requirements
Minimum of 5 years’ project development experience in data centers, renewable energy, or large-scale infrastructure development
Strong knowledge of data center project development, permitting, contracting, utilities, and interconnection processes
Familiarity with fiber networks, electrical redundancy, and various forms of energy technologies is a plus
Bachelor’s degree in engineering, environmental science, business, finance, logistics, project/construction management, information technology, or a related field
Advanced degree (MS/MBA) is preferred but not required
Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail, and proven ability to meet tight deadlines
Understanding of the economic impact of project-related business decisions and general financial modeling principles
Exceptional oral and written communication skills, including public speaking and presentation abilities for executive management and public hearings
Demonstrated experience managing cross-functional teams and collaborating with peers, subordinates, management, unaffiliated third parties, and government agencies
Self-starter, highly self-reliant, and capable of operating with minimal supervision in a complex, fast-paced environment
Ability to manage multiple priorities and projects simultaneously, adapting to new challenges and changing environments
Strong analytical, problem-solving, decision-making, and time management skills
Experience with CRM systems and development of project metrics and reporting tools
Comfortable with travel requirements, averaging 20% but more as dictated by project needs.
Benefits
full range of medical, dental, vision, life, financial, and/or other benefits
401(k) eligibility
various paid time off benefits, such as vacation, sick time, and parental leave
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard skills
data center developmentpermittingcontractingutilities managementinterconnection processesenvironmental surveysgeotechnical investigationsfinancial modelingproject managementrisk management
Soft skills
organizational skillsattention to detailcommunication skillspublic speakingpresentation skillsteam managementcollaborationself-starterproblem-solvingtime management