Associate Director - Architecture (Data Centers)

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AECOM Enterprise Capabilities is seeking an Associate Director - Architecture (Data Centers) with experience and/or interest in data centers to work in our Medellin, Colombia office.

Interested candidates, please share projects portfolio.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to

• Serve as the organization’s professional specialist in data center design and delivery, applying advanced theories, concepts, and principles to address the unique challenges of hyperscale, colocation, and edge data center projects.

• Act as a recognized leader and authority in data center architecture, driving innovation in areas such as energy efficiency (PUE optimization), modular design, renewable energy integration, and sustainability.

• Lead the development and implementation of advanced design methodologies and best practices for data center projects, ensuring alignment with AECOM’s Sustainable Legacies strategy.

• Manage architectural programs for data centers, including hyperscale campuses and multi-story colocation facilities, ensuring seamless coordination of all project phases from concept through commissioning.

• Plan and oversee detailed phases of major data center programs, ensuring technical deliverables meet client requirements, project schedules, and budget constraints.

• Provide leadership and guidance to multidisciplinary teams, including architects, MEP engineers, structural engineers, and commissioning agents, fostering collaboration and achieving technical objectives.

• Mentor junior architects and design staff in data center-specific design principles, digital delivery workflows, and technical standards, promoting professional growth and knowledge sharing.

• Act as a key expert in business development pursuits for data center projects, contributing technical insights, design narratives, and strategic recommendations to secure new opportunities.

• Collaborate with senior leadership to craft compelling proposals, presentations, and design solutions tailored to the unique needs of data center clients, including hyperscale providers, colocation operators, and enterprise clients.

• Serve as a key liaison across teams, ensuring seamless communication and coordination between clients, stakeholders, and internal teams to deliver high-value data center solutions.

• Ensure all data center designs meet or exceed industry benchmarks for reliability, scalability, and sustainability, while addressing future-proofing needs for emerging technologies like AI and edge computing.

Minimum requirements

• Professional degree in Architecture (required) and 8+ years dedicated to large-scale data-center design and delivery

• Expert-level proficiency in design software such as Revit, AutoCAD, SketchUp, Adobe Suite, and BIM tools.

• Extended experience coordinating interdisciplinary teams and contributing to large-scale projects, and collaborating with other departments.

• Demonstrated ability to lead global, multidisciplinary teams and deliver high-scale projects.

• Deep knowledge of data center codes/standards: IBC, NFPA 75 & 76, ASHRAE Thermal Guidelines, Uptime Tier Topology, IEC / IEEE redundancy classifications.

• Ability to perform technical quality reviews and ensure deliverables meet established standards.

Preferred requirements

• Master’s degree in Architecture or a related field.

• 12+ years of progressive architectural practice.