Design Manager

JDL Recruitment are delighted to be partnering with a leading AI focused Data Centre Developer as they expand their design team in the UK with a Design Manager.

This is a remote role with approximately 20% travel to sites across Europe and on a UK employment contract.

Responsibilities

• Lead the full lifecycle of data centre and infrastructure design, from concept development through construction drawings ensuring solution supports dense AI compute, low-latency workloads, and high-efficiency operations.
• Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders (Construction, Cost, Engineering, In-Country Teams) and external consultants (Architects, MEP, CSA) to align design with business objectives and needs.
• Oversee and manage permitting processes across multiple European jurisdictions; coordinate with local consultants and public authorities to secure approvals.
• Design and adapt facilities to accommodate advanced compute clusters, high-power electrical infrastructure, and liquid cooling solutions (e.g., immersion and direct-to-chip). Familiarity with modern AI compute architecture is a strong advantage.
• Manage internal alignment and external consultant teams, ensuring cohesive, accurate, and high-quality design deliverables that meet technical and operational standards.
• Review design packages for code compliance, constructability, and performance. Identify risks early and implement design changes to maintain project trajectory.
• Maintain project schedules, deliverable tracking, and clear documentation workflows using BIM and cloud-based collaboration tools.

Requirements

• 5+ years in design or design management, preferably in data centre, mission-critical, or high-performance computing projects.
• Proven experience delivering permits across European jurisdictions.
• Deep knowledge of MEP systems, high-density power, and infrastructure suited for AI compute.
• Comfortable working across teams and time zones, including remote and hybrid models.
• Fluency in English is required; other European languages are an advantage.
• Proficient with Revit, Navisworks, and BIM-based workflows.