The Design Manager (DM) is responsible for overseeing a diverse portfolio of data center design projects for new builds, expansions, and sustainability-driven upgrades across all countries in which NorthC operates. The role reports directly to the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and plays a key role in ensuring that all designs align with NorthC’s technical standards, strategic objectives, and sustainability ambitions.
Key responsibilities
- Data Center Design Delivery
Lead the delivery of data center designs in close collaboration with the NorthC Project Manager. Manage and coordinate external design consultants across all technical disciplines, ensuring full compliance with regulations, local building codes, and the NorthC Data Center Blueprint. The DM is accountable for progressing designs through all phases, including concept and initial design, permitting, detailed design, and preparation of tender documentation. Where the PM is responsible for the overall planning and budget, the DM will conduct comprehensive design reviews and provide technical guidance throughout the project lifecycle. - Tender Support and Evaluation
Contribute to procurement and tender processes by preparing technical tender documentation and evaluating submitted proposals. Provide clear, well-founded technical advice and recommendations to the CTO to support decision-making. - Testing, Commissioning, and Validation
Support the project during testing and commissioning phases following construction. Collaborate with NorthC’s Operations and Facilities departments on sound testing and commissioning procedures. This includes contributing to the development of test scripts and documentation, and evaluating and validating test results in collaboration with relevant NorthC stakeholders. - Blueprint Development
Maintain, develop, and continuously improve the NorthC Data Center Blueprint. Proactively establish and refine best practices, templates, policies, and tools across all disciplines, including Civil/Structural/Architectural (CSA), Mechanical, Electrical, XMS, Safety, and Security. Stay informed of market trends, emerging technologies, and innovations within the data center industry. - Technical Advisory
Act as the internal point of contact for data center technology-related matters. Participate in site selection due diligence with the Mergers & Acquisitions team and lead or support feasibility studies for optimization of technical systems.
- Sustainability Leadership
In support of NorthC’s ambitious sustainability objectives, provide technical studies, analyses, and recommendations to management. This includes proactively developing high-level designs and technical roadmaps to achieve sustainability targets, as well as supporting facilities and operations teams in improving the sustainability performance of existing data centers.
Location and Travel
The Design Manager will work across multiple project teams and be based in Oude Meer, the Netherlands. Willingness to travel occasionally to NorthC locations across Europe is essential for this role.
Capabilities
- Holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering
- Has over 10 years of experience managing multidisciplinary design, engineering, and construction projects in data centers
- Up-to-date knowledge of data center market developments
- Familiar with design methodologies, e.g. RIBA, BSRIA, HOAI Leistungsphasen
- Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset; can-do mentality and adaptability
- Effective communication skills for interacting with technical and managerial stakeholders
- Professional-level presentation skills and ability to represent NorthC with integrity
- Ability to maintain professionalism and influence decisions with persuasive arguments
- Proficiency in English (written and spoken) is required; German proficiency is a plus