Senior Architect

Fleet Data Centers designs, builds and operates mega-scale data center campuses. Fleet provides its customers flexibility and predictability to meet their upside demand forecasts, addressing a key need in the market as traditional leased models are struggling to keep pace with the demand for new Cloud and AI infrastructure. Fleet is led by a team of industry veterans that have already made a lasting imprint on the evolution of global digital infrastructure and are committed and uniquely capable of upleveling data center development scale and operations in the face of rising demand. Fleet is well positioned to bring in-house design, engineering and operational capabilities to collaborate with customers on tailored solutions for campuses of 500MW+. This unique model enables Fleet to provide the world’s largest and most sophisticated customers a seamless extension of their own data center fleets with constant access to design innovation. Fleet is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, with satellite offices in Seattle, WA and Arlington, VA.

Position Overview:
The Principal Architect of Data Center Engineering will be responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of cutting-edge efficient, scalable, and sustainable data centers. This role involves working with cross-functional teams to ensure best-in-class systems that support massive cloud operations across multiple regions.

Candidate must be a technical expert in architecture, while being experienced in civil and structural engineering disciplines with a deep understanding of data center operations, sustainability initiatives and local codes. Subject matter expertise will be required and continually improved as it relates to new and innovative architectural technologies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Create site campus masterplans and building plans.
• Review due diligence and drive responsibility according to project requirements.
• Lead the design and development of architecture for large-scale data centers.
• Provide architectural design oversight throughout the project lifecycle.
• Create and track metrics related to cost and quality.
• Drive sustainability initiatives.
• Manage large-scale, multi-site projects across global regions, ensuring the on-time delivery of architecture.
• Collaborate with electrical, mechanical, structural engineering, network, controls, and operations teams to integrate architecture with other data center components.
• Work closely with vendors and contractors to ensure all architectural systems meet quality, safety, and operational standards, as well as company specifications.
• Act as the main point of contact for all architectural systems-related decisions and collaborate with senior leadership and stakeholders.
• Ensure all designs and systems comply with local, state, and federal regulations, building codes, and environmental requirements.
• Develop and refine design standards and guidelines to ensure consistency across all data centers.

Required Qualifications:

• Education:  Bachelor’s degree in Architecture or a related field (master’s or Ph.D. preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in Architecture, with at least 8 years focused on data center design and operations.
• Proven track record of delivering large-scale data center projects.
• Extensive experience with software (e.g., AutoCAD, Revit, etc.).
• Expertise in sustainability, energy efficiency, and cost-saving measures related to data centers.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills, with the ability to translate complex technical concepts into clear, actionable strategies for both technical and non-technical audiences.
• Stakeholder Management: Strong ability to influence and manage key stakeholders across engineering, product, and operations teams.
• Analytical Skills: Demonstrated success in analyzing program data, defining KPIs, and reporting on success metrics.

Preferred Qualifications:

• License:Professional Architectural license.
• Experience working in global data center projects, navigating region-specific regulations and environmental conditions.
• Hyperscaler:Familiarity with(AWS, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, Oracle Cloud, and Meta) cloud providers’ data center requirements.
• Cloud Certifications: Relevant cloud certifications (e.g., AWS Certified Solutions Architect, Azure Fundamentals, etc.).
• Global Experience: Experience leading product launches in global markets, including knowledge of international land, energy and/or data center regulations and compliance.
• Technical Background: A strong technical understanding of cloud services, networking, and software development lifecycles.

Key Competencies:

• Integrity and Ethical Standards: Build trust, ensure fairness, and foster long-term, transparent relationships with suppliers.
• Effective Communication: The ability to clearly convey expectations and requirements to suppliers and negotiation parties, while understanding their needs and concerns. Comfortable delivering written and verbal presentations to internal leadership teams.
• Emotional Intelligence (EQ):  Ability to understand the emotions, cultural nuances, and motivations of others, while effectively managing one's own emotions during high-pressure negotiations.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to think big picture while also managing granular details.
• Adaptability: Proven track record of managing change and ambiguity in a fast-paced environment.
• Leadership:  Ability to manage cross-functional teams and external vendors.
• Experience with complex, multi-site projects: Manage multiple projects under tight deadlines and deliver exceptional results.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills:  Capable of interfacing with senior leadership and diverse stakeholders.
• Creative problem-solver:  Ability to troubleshoot and optimize system performance effectively.

Working Conditions:

• This role requires occasional travel to data center sites across multiple regions (up to 25% travel).
• Ability to work in both office environments and active construction sites, adhering to all safety protocols.

Expected Salary Range:  $160,000 - $200,000 Salary + Discretionary Bonus

Location: Seattle, WA, with considerations for candidates in Denver, CO.

Fleet Data Centers Employment:

Fleet Data Center employees enjoy competitive compensation and comprehensive benefits, including 100% employer-covered medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401K program, standard paid holidays, and unlimited PTO.

NOTE: This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive. Employees may perform other related duties as assigned to meet the organization’s ongoing needs.

Fleet Data Centers is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants are considered for employment regardless of age, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.

If you need assistance applying for any of our open positions, please contact us at info@fleetdatacenters.com.