What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Data Center Development | Digitial Infrastructure position at Sourcechange?
Director of Data Center Development - Digital Infrastructure
Location: United States (Hybrid) - Austin (TX), San Francisco (CA), or Washington DC (DC)
Employment Type: Full-time, Permanent
About
Our partner is a well-funded, fast-growing innovator in the renewable energy and digital infrastructure sector, with a strong focus on accelerating decarbonization. Currently developing several GW of utility-scale energy storage projects (BESS) throughout the United States, they are backed by a leading multinational bank and global investment firm with extensive experience in infrastructure. Their culture emphasizes sustainability, connectivity, and team camaraderie, believing that the best way to achieve meaningful environmental impact is through collaborative, enjoyable work.
Position Overview
Seeking a Director of Data Center Development to oversee the end-to-end delivery of data center facilities that seamlessly integrate with renewable energy assets. Reporting to the Chief Development Officer, this role partners with cross-functional teams in development, asset management, energy markets, legal, and finance to achieve strategic, operational, and environmental goals. Ideal candidates bring 5 years of experience in real estate or energy/industrial project development (including markets, substation infrastructure), a background in Data Development, and, ideally, interconnection exposure in ERCOT, WECC, or CAISO. You should thrive in a fast-paced environment and excel at managing complex projects.
Key Responsibilities
Project Management
- Oversee the entire lifecycle of data center development, from site selection to permitting and utility coordination.
- Create and manage project plans, budgets, and schedules for timely, cost-effective completion.
- Maintain strong relationships with architects, engineers, and contractors.
Site Selection & Feasibility
- Conduct feasibility studies and on-site evaluations to identify infrastructure needs, risks, and regulatory considerations.
- Align site assessments with power availability and internal development strategies.
Design & Engineering
- Guide data center design to ensure alignment with energy assets, focusing on high-/medium-voltage and master planning.
- Collaborate with technical teams to uphold operational and environmental standards.
Permitting & Compliance
- Manage local, state, and federal permits, ensuring full regulatory compliance.
- Serve as the key liaison with government agencies, utilities, and environmental stakeholders.
Energy Supply Negotiation
- Work closely with energy market teams to secure reliable, cost-effective power for data centers.
- Negotiate utility contracts and oversee capacity planning, infrastructure upgrades, and timelines.
Key Qualifications
- 5 years in real estate or data center/renewable energy project development, including exposure to interconnection, energy markets, and substation infrastructure.
- Proven record of delivering complex projects on schedule and within budget.
- Familiarity with grid interconnection, power availability, and regulatory frameworks.
- Strong communication skills to engage diverse stakeholders.
- Bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience; advanced credentials are a plus.
- Hybrid work model (2-3 days/week in office) with up to 25% travel.
- Must have legal authorization to work in the United States.
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive Base Salary (commensurate with experience)
- Performance-Based Bonus
- Full health, dental, and vision coverage
- 401(k) plan with company match
- Unlimited Paid Time Off
- Wellness credits and life/disability insurance
We look forward to receiving your application and scheduling an opportunity to discuss further. To apply, please attach an updated resume on the advertisement link, and connect with me on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-onn/
