Design Manager

📋 Description

• • Poolside AI is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Design Manager to spearhead the internal design coordination and management of engineering deliverables for our cutting-edge data center projects. This pivotal role will serve as the central hub for all design-related activities, ensuring seamless integration between client requirements, engineering expertise, and the practicalities of construction execution. You will be instrumental in shaping the future of our data center infrastructure, driving efficiency, and upholding the highest standards of quality and technical accuracy.
• • As the Design Manager, you will own the complete lifecycle of architectural and engineering drawings, specifications, and all associated design deliverables. This encompasses meticulous review, diligent tracking, and timely, accurate responses to client Requests for Information (RFIs), design change requests, and requests for proposals or clarifications. Your ability to translate complex technical information into clear, actionable documentation will be paramount.
• • A core responsibility will be the coordination of design updates, revisions, and redlines across all critical disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, plumbing (MEP), structural, and architectural. You will foster a collaborative environment, leading internal design review meetings and proactively facilitating the resolution of any design conflicts or discrepancies that may arise. Your leadership will ensure that all design elements are harmonized and aligned with project objectives.
• • You will act as a key liaison, collaborating closely with external architecture and engineering firms, our valued clients, and the construction teams on the ground. This ensures that client requirements are not only clearly understood but also meticulously translated into design specifications and ultimately met during the construction phase. Maintaining open lines of communication and fostering strong working relationships will be essential for project success.
• • Maintaining rigorous version control of all drawings and documentation is a critical aspect of this role. You will ensure strict compliance with client-specific standards, all applicable building codes, and prevailing industry best practices. This commitment to documentation integrity safeguards project integrity and minimizes potential risks.
• • Proactively identifying potential design risks is a key function. You will develop and propose effective mitigation strategies, escalating issues to project leadership as necessary to ensure timely and effective resolution. Your foresight will contribute significantly to the smooth progression of projects.
• • Developing and maintaining comprehensive design schedules is crucial. You will meticulously track progress against these schedules and provide clear, concise reports on deliverable status to all relevant stakeholders. This transparency ensures alignment and accountability across the project team.
• • As the design function evolves within Poolside AI, you will have the opportunity to mentor and manage a growing team of design coordinators, drafters, or junior engineers. Your leadership will be instrumental in developing talent and fostering a high-performing design department.
• • You will be directly responsible for managing engineering costs and championing value engineering exercises to optimize the overall cost of the program without compromising on quality or performance. This requires a keen understanding of cost drivers and innovative solutions.
• • This role demands a deep understanding of data center systems, including MEP infrastructure, power distribution, cooling systems, and structural requirements. Familiarity with key design standards such as Uptime Institute, ASHRAE, and the International Building Code (IBC), as well as a solid grasp of permitting processes, is essential for success.
• • Exceptional organizational and project management abilities are a must, enabling you to juggle multiple complex tasks and deadlines effectively. Strong communication skills are vital for clear client interactions, precise RFI responses, and seamless cross-functional coordination.
• • Proven leadership experience in managing teams and driving accountability in fast-paced, dynamic environments will be a significant asset. Experience across power and utility environments, including the ability to accommodate different RAM Analysis and costs for battery and capacitor ramp-up, is also highly desirable.
• • Occasional travel will be required to attend client meetings, conduct site walks, participate in design workshops, and review project progress, ensuring a hands-on approach to project oversight.