What are the responsibilities and job description for the Data Center Design Architect position at Metric DCX?
Role Summary
A senior in-house architectural leadership role responsible for driving architectural design across a global data center portfolio — from concept through construction documentation and site handover. The role owns design standards development, manages external AEC vendors, and serves as the primary escalation point for site localisation and code compliance across multiple concurrent programs.
Core Responsibilities
Design Leadership — Leading architectural design development for new builds and retrofits across the portfolio. Conducting internal and external design reviews covering code compliance, space planning, circulation, headcount modelling, and alignment with canonical design standards.
Standards Development — Rationalising requirements with internal operations and engineering teams to define and continuously improve next-generation data center design standards and basis of design documentation.
Site Localisation — Applying engineering judgement to adapt standard designs to local codes, site constraints, and operational feedback across international jurisdictions.
Cross-Functional Coordination — Integrating architectural scope with engineering, security, and construction teams. Ensuring fire/life safety, building code compliance, and operational performance at every design stage.
Vendor Management — Managing external AEC firms across design phases, enforcing quality, schedule adherence, and alignment with program requirements.
Documentation & Automation — Producing and coordinating design documentation in Revit, AutoCAD, and Autodesk Construction Cloud. Leveraging Python and Dynamo scripting to automate repetitive design tasks and improve team velocity.
Stakeholder Communication — Translating technical architectural decisions into clear communications for senior leadership, construction partners, and global stakeholders.
Key Requirements
- B.Sc. in Architecture or equivalent | 5 years industrial or data center AEC experience
- Proficiency in Revit, AutoCAD, Bluebeam, and Autodesk Construction Cloud
- Strong knowledge of building codes, fire and life safety requirements, and data center construction standards
- Proven ability to manage multiple concurrent design workstreams across internal and external teams under international deadlines
Preferred Background
- M.Sc. in Architecture, Civil, Structural, or Chartered Engineering
- Licensed Architect with NCARB certification | 3 years ownership of multi-phase mission critical projects
- Hyperscale or high-density data center AEC vendor management experience
- Python and Dynamo scripting for Revit design automation
- Exposure to AI infrastructure facilities and GPU compute density requirements