Associate Director - Structural Engineering, Data Centers

Job Description

AECOM's Enterprise Capabilities is seeking an Associate Director – Structural Engineering (Data Centers) at the senior level to join our office in Medellin, Colombia. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in structural engineering for mission-critical facilities, with deep expertise in the demands for scale, resilience, and speed in data center operations. This position focuses on project engineering management and technical leadership within the structural discipline.

Responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to:

• Structural Design for Data Centers: Lead and develop structural system designs tailored to data center operations, including concrete and steel systems, high-load demands, vibration criteria, redundancy, and constructability requirements. Ensure designs prioritize reliability, scalability, and efficiency in mission-critical environments.
• Structural Analysis and Capacity Planning: Conduct structural analysis and calculations for building and foundation systems, factoring in seismic, wind, and vibration loads. Plan for future scalability and operational flexibility.
• Structural Equipment and Material Selection: Specify structural materials and systems such as steel frames, reinforced concrete, foundation types (shallow, deep, mat, piles), and vibration mitigation solutions. Ensure selections meet operational requirements and adhere to safety standards.
• Supervise the development of design documentation for tilt-up concrete panels, precast structures, steel framing systems, and deep and shallow foundations.
• Coordination with Other Disciplines: Collaborate with mechanical, electrical, architectural, and geotechnical teams to integrate structural systems efficiently and avoid clashes.
• Ensure Compliance with Industry Standards: Adhere to industry-specific standards, such as ASCE, ACI, AISC, IBC, Eurocodes, and local regulations, ensuring all designs meet regulatory and operational guidelines.
• Review design documentation and specifications: Verify technical drawings, calculation reports, specifications, and related documentation for completeness and accuracy.
• Communicate design plans effectively with clients, architects, contractors, and project stakeholders.
• Stay Informed on Data Center Trends: Keep updated on advancements, best practices, and emerging technologies in structural engineering for data centers, such as modular construction and advanced materials.
• Mentor and Develop Team: Support the development and mentorship of structural engineers, promoting professional growth and technical excellence within the team.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering with a strong focus on structural engineering.
• 8+ years of professional experience in structural engineering, with a strong focus on data center or mission-critical infrastructure.
• Proficient in structural design for concrete and steel systems, including high-load, redundancy, and vibration criteria.
• Extensive knowledge of international structural codes and standards (ASCE, ACI, AISC, IBC) and local regulations.
• Experience with structural analysis and modeling tools such as SAP2000, ETABS, SAFE, RAM, Tekla, Revit, etc.
• Experience preparing and reviewing calculation reports, technical drawings, and specifications.
• Proven ability to review and respond to contractor submittals, including shop drawings, submittals, and RFIs.
• Knowledge of sustainability strategies and innovative structural solutions for data centers.
• Experience working closely with multidisciplinary teams to integrate structural systems efficiently.
• Prior experience in structural design consultancy or involvement in large-scale data center projects is highly desirable.
• Advanced level of English, written and spoken.

Preferred Requirements:

• Master’s degree or advanced coursework in structural engineering.
• Experience with data center facilities and familiarity with data center specific design standards and structural resiliency requirements.

Additional Information

Relocation assistance is not available for this position.

Sponsorship for Colombia work authorization is not available for this position, now or in the future.

At AECOM, we are committed to maintaining a secure and trustworthy recruitment process and take any fraudulent hiring activity seriously. To support this commitment, all newly hired employees are required to attend an in-person Day 1 onboarding at an AECOM office location as a condition of employment.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2025. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community - where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.