Senior Project Manager - MEP

Senior Project Manager Ground-Up Data Center Construction

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Project Manager to lead large-scale, ground-up data center construction projects in the South Chicago region. This role requires deep expertise in site development, structural construction, and mission-critical MEP systems, along with strong leadership in managing General Contractors (GCs) on complex, high-value builds. Candidates must be legally authorized to work in North America; visa sponsorship is not available.

Key Responsibilities

• Ground-Up Construction Leadership
• Oversee all phases of ground-up data center development, including site acquisition readiness, earthwork, utilities installation, foundations, steel erection, exterior envelope, and full build-out.
• Ensure seamless coordination from site preparation and civil work through structural completion and MEP integration.
• Drive fast-track schedules and maintain rigorous quality control across all construction phases.
• MEP & Mission-Critical Infrastructure Oversight
• Supervise installation of all mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, ensuring mission-critical reliability, performance, and redundancy.
• Manage high-voltage systems, switchgear, UPS, generators, CRAC/CRAH units, cooling towers, and chilled water systems.
• Validate full MEP coordination with structural and architectural elements, ensuring clear pathways, conflict-free routing, and system commissioning readiness.
• Oversee integrated testing, startup, and turnover of all mission-critical systems.
• GC & Subcontractor Management
• Lead daily coordination with General Contractors, trades, and specialty subcontractors to ensure alignment with scope, drawings, and specifications.
• Conduct regular site walks to verify progress, MEP quality, safety compliance, and installation accuracy.
• Hold GCs accountable for manpower planning, sequencing, logistics, and adherence to project milestones.
• Project Controls & Risk Management
• Manage and monitor budgets, schedules, procurement timelines, and change orders.
• Identify risks early, implement mitigation plans, and ensure minimal impact on cost or schedule.
• Maintain strict compliance with safety procedures, building codes, and quality standards throughout the build.

Client & Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the main point of contact for client updates, design coordination, and milestone reporting.
• Provide clear, consistent communication, both on-site and through structured project reporting.

Qualifications

• 710+ years of experience managing ground-up data center construction projects (required).
• Proven experience delivering large mission-critical facilities with heavy MEP scope and complex electrical/mechanical systems.
• Strong background directing General Contractors on high-value commercial or mission-critical builds.
• Ability to manage full project lifecycle: sitework, civil, structural, architectural, and full MEP integration.
• Deep knowledge of data center systems, including electrical distribution, HVAC/cooling, redundancy configurations, and commissioning processes.
• Strong leadership, communication, and client-facing skills with a hands-on, on-site management approach.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with multi-phase or hyperscale data center programs.
• Proficiency in construction management platforms (Procore, MS Project, Bluebeam, etc.).
• Background in both owner's representative and GC environments.