Crane Data Centers Inc. (“Crane”) is seeking a Director, Data Center Design to lead the design and delivery of its data center portfolio. This role will set and implement design standards, oversee all design-related activities across new builds and retrofits, and manage relationships with key partners and vendors.
Responsibilities
- Lead the full design lifecycle across Crane’s data center portfolio, delivering design projects on time, on budget, and to high standards of quality and sustainability.
- Develop and implement design policies, tools, and KPIs that reinforce Crane’s reputation as a premier developer and drive innovation across our design efforts.
- Oversee all aspects of construction design: create and manage design schedules and budgets, supervise internal and external design stakeholders, and ensure consistent adherence to project KPIs.
- Manage design RFQs/RFPs, negotiate consultant contracts, and support GC selection and GMP negotiations.
- Refine Crane’s Owner Performance Requirements/Basis of Design and apply them across projects.
- Benchmark cost, quality, and performance of architecture, engineering, and structural partners in collaboration with procurement.
- Ensure the built environment reflects design intent and adherence to Crane’s technical, sustainability, and operational goals.
Executive Leadership
- Report directly to the Chief Technical Officer and lead the development of Crane’s design organization.
- Provide strategic leadership, represent design across Crane teams, and uphold professionalism and transparency in all reporting and decisions.
- Promote Crane as an industry leader in design, construction, and sustainability.
Qualifications
- 10+ years leading hyperscale or major colocation data center designs across greenfield, ground-up, and retrofit developments.
- Bachelor’s degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, or related field.
- Expertise in mission-critical systems, design budgeting, and certifications (e.g. ISO, LEED, Uptime).
- Deep knowledge of design codes, health and safety standards, and permitting processes.
- Proven experience managing large teams and diverse consultant groups, with strong consultant, vendor, and GC relationships.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering and/or PE, AIA, LEED AP, or PMP certification.
- Experience building a design team from the ground up.
- Patent or IP experience in data center design is a plus.
- Strong background in equipment procurement, contract negotiation, and design fast-tracking with AHJs.
- Familiarity with Primavera P6, Procore, BIM/Revit, Bluebeam, and network/cabling design.
Travel
- Potential to travel up to 25-50% with flexibility to travel on short notice.
Why Crane?
This is an exciting time to join our growing company. As part of Crane’s core team, you’ll get to work cross-functionally, challenge the way we do things, and put your ideas into action.
Crane offers a competitive compensation package, benefits, and an environment that recognizes and rewards your contributions.
Crane prides itself on helping team members thrive in their work and life. As a result, we believe that each member of the team is a valuable part of the organization and offers a comprehensive compensation package that reflects this value. As an employee of Crane, you will enjoy: unlimited time off, paid holidays, parental leave, and competitive equity options that ensure a meaningful stake in Crane’s future success.
Crane is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veterans status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
About Us
Headquartered in San Francisco, Crane was founded after recognizing the need for a new, more sustainable approach to developing and operating data centers. As both hyperscale data center developers and former buyers of capacity, our team has a unique perspective on innovation and design. We put our clients first and offer flexible, sustainable, data center capacity when and where they need it most.
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. Crane is not responsible for any fees related to unsolicited referrals.