Sr. Manager/Director, Data Centers

Company Overview: 

Copia Power is an energy transition company committed to developing, constructing and owning large-scale infrastructure assets in the U.S. to accelerate decarbonization in all areas of our economy. Copia Power is actively developing more than 15 GW of solar and energy storage projects in the US. Copia Power is backed by Carlyle, one of the world’s largest global investment firms. 

At Copia, we pride ourselves on a culture where sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We’re dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the environment, and we believe that achieving this goal requires not just hard work but also enjoying the journey. Our team thrives on connectivity, fostering strong relationships across all levels of the organization. We champion a healthy work-life balance and create an environment where having fun is a natural part of our day. Together, we combine passion and playfulness to drive progress and make a difference. 

Job Description: 

Copia is seeking an experienced Sr. Manager/Director, Data Centers with 8 years of expertise in real estate and energy development, with expertise in interconnection, energy markets, substation infrastructure, and project management. This role requires a versatile individual who, while not necessarily an expert in all areas, possesses sufficient knowledge to coordinate effectively and identify the right resources and contractors for various projects. The ideal candidate will excel in project management, ensuring that all projects stay on track and meet strategic goals. 

The Sr. Manager/Director, Data Centers will report to the Senior Director, Digital Infrastructure, working closely with Copia’s asset management, energy markets, legal, and finance teams in an individual contributor capacity.

Key Responsibilities: 

Project Management: 

·         Lead end-to-end management of data center development projects, including site selection, design, permitting, and utility coordination 

·         Develop project plans, budgets, and schedules, and ensure adherence to project timelines and financial targets. 

·         Coordinate with architects, engineers, contractors, and other external partners to ensure project requirements are met. 

Site Selection & Feasibility: 

·         Evaluate potential sites for new data center development, including conducting site visits, assessing infrastructure requirements, and analyzing risks. 

·         Collaborate with internal teams to assess site feasibility based on Copia’s generation resources, power availability, connectivity, environmental considerations, and regulatory requirements. 

Design & Engineering: 

·         Ensure that data center designs are optimized for integration with Copia’s generation assets and develop high voltage, medium voltage and master planning layouts for GW scale data centers. 

·         Work closely with design and engineering teams to develop facility layouts that meet the company’s technical specifications and operational standards. 

Permitting & Compliance: 

·         Manage the permitting process, including coordinating with local authorities, utilities, and environmental agencies to obtain necessary approvals. 

·         Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including environmental, safety, and building codes. 

Energy Supply Negotiation: 

·         Negotiate energy supply agreements, including pricing, contract terms, and service levels, to secure reliable and cost-effective power for data center operations. 

·         Collaborate with our energy markets team to build partnerships and relationships to accelerate load integration. 

·         Collaborate with energy providers and consultants to ensure sustainable and scalable energy solutions.  

·         Coordinate with utilities to ensure proper integration with data center requirements, including power capacity, infrastructure upgrades, and timelines.  

Minimum Qualifications: 

·         Minimum of 7 years in project management within the energy and infrastructure sectors. Proven experience in interconnection, energy markets, and substation infrastructure is required. 

·         Strong project management skills with a track record of successful project delivery. Ability to manage complex projects and coordinate cross-functional teams. 

·         Familiarity with interconnection processes, energy market dynamics, and substation infrastructure. Ability to leverage this knowledge to guide project execution and resource allocation. 

·         Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Ability to interact effectively with stakeholders at all levels. 

·         A bachelor’s degree in a related field is preferred but not mandatory. Extensive experience will be considered in lieu of formal education. 

·         Ability to work out of a Copia hub location a minimum of 3 days per week.  

·         Ability to travel up to 30%. 

·        Applicants must be authorized to work in the United States without employer sponsorship.

Our Benefits:  

We work hard to embrace diversity and inclusion and encourage everyone at Copia to bring their authentic selves to work every day. We offer flexible work hours and generous benefits to all of our employees that include:

- Medical, Dental & Vision coverage with no premiums

- Company contribution to 401(k) plans

- Annual bonus eligibility

- Unlimited Paid Time Off (PTO)

- Paid company holidays

- Wellness and cell phone credits

- Life and AD&D Insurance

- Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for community and support

- Opportunities for professional development to grow and thrive within the company

About Copia: Copia Power (“Copia”), is a wholly owned portfolio company of the global investment firm, The Carlyle Group. Copia’s platform is focused on developing, owning, and operating utility-scale sustainable infrastructure in the United States. We value diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. For more information, visit www.copiapower.com. 

At Copia, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment & do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by law, ordinance, or regulation.