Director of Projects & Development (Data Centers)
🏗️ Director of Projects & Development - Data Center Hyperscale Campus (Chicago Region)
Location: Greater Chicago Area (Near Indiana Border)
Employment Type: Full-Time
About the Company
A cutting-edge developer of hyperscale and colocation facilities, committed to delivering high-performance digital infrastructure across strategic U.S. markets. With a focus on speed-to-market, sustainability, and operational excellence, the company empowers cloud providers and enterprise clients with scalable, future-ready data center solutions.
The organization is expanding its footprint in the Midwest with a flagship hyperscale campus near the Indiana border and is seeking a seasoned leader to drive its execution from concept to commissioning.
Role Overview
As Director of Projects & Development, you will be the driving force behind the successful delivery of a new hyperscale campus. This executive-level role requires a strategic thinker and hands-on executor who can lead multidisciplinary teams, manage complex stakeholder relationships, and ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards of quality and compliance.
You will report directly to the SVP of Development and work closely with internal leadership, external consultants, contractors, and local authorities.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee full-cycle development and construction of hyperscale data center projects, from entitlement through delivery.
- Lead site planning, permitting, and utility coordination in collaboration with local agencies and engineering teams.
- Manage project budgets, schedules, and risk mitigation strategies across multiple concurrent workstreams.
- Direct RFP processes, evaluate bids, and negotiate contracts with consultants, suppliers, and general contractors.
- Ensure compliance with environmental, zoning, and building regulations across jurisdictions.
- Implement sustainability strategies aligned with industry metrics (e.g., PUE, WUE, carbon reduction).
- Maintain transparent communication with internal stakeholders and external partners, providing regular updates on progress and performance.
- Champion safety, quality, and innovation throughout the construction lifecycle.
Qualifications
- 10+ years of experience in real estate development, construction management, or engineering, with a strong focus on mission-critical or hyperscale infrastructure.
- Proven track record of delivering large-scale data center projects in complex regulatory environments.
- Deep understanding of permitting, entitlement, and utility interconnection processes.
- Strong financial acumen with experience in pro forma modeling and capital planning.
- Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., Procore, Autodesk Construction Cloud) and Microsoft Office Suite.
- PMP, CCM, or equivalent certifications preferred.
- Bachelor's degree in construction management, engineering, architecture, or related field; advanced degrees a plus.
What We Offer
- Competitive compensation and performance-based incentives.
- Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, and disability coverage.
- Generous PTO and paid holidays.
- 401(k) with employer match.
- Professional development support and leadership training.
- A collaborative, high-growth environment with a mission to shape the future of digital infrastructure.
FAQs
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