Critical Operations Manager

Rowan Digital Infrastructure is redefining how data centers are delivered faster, smarter, and at scale. We partner with hyperscale customers to provide tailored, high-performance infrastructure with a focus on sustainability, efficiency, and flexibility.

Our experienced, end-to-end team delivers custom solutions across a growing portfolio of strategic sites in key markets across the United States. Backed by Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners, Rowan is committed to enabling the next generation of digital infrastructure and building a more sustainable future in the process.

Ready to help transform how the world’s most important technologies are powered? Join us.

Role Summary

As a Manager, Critical Operations, you will be responsible for the property's overall condition and operational integrity, ensuring the reliability, maintenance, and compliance of all landlord-owned infrastructure. This includes substations, electrical distribution systems, roofing, stormwater management, exterior lighting, roadways, and all infrastructure extending to the facility's exterior. You will oversee maintenance programs, vendor management, and risk mitigation strategies, ensuring the infrastructure remains operationally sound, compliant with regulatory standards, and aligned with tenant needs.

This role requires strong technical expertise in critical infrastructure management, a proactive approach to asset maintenance, and the ability to coordinate with vendors, internal teams, and regulatory agencies. You will play a key role in minimizing disruptions, optimizing infrastructure performance, and maintaining the safety and efficiency of all landlord-maintained assets.

Travel: Ability to travel up to (20%) for company gatherings

Location: Frederick, MD

Compensation: $130-$165K - Offers Bonus

Essential Responsibilities

Governance and Compliance Management

• Ensure regulatory and safety compliance You will oversee maintenance activities and vendor operations to ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations, including OSHA, environmental laws, and building codes. You will maintain documentation of inspections, permits, and compliance reports to ensure audit readiness

• Manage contract adherence You will verify that vendor contracts align with company policies and regulatory requirements. This includes tracking service level agreements (SLAs), monitoring contract performance, and documenting deviations or corrective actions

• Support internal and external audits You will participate in scheduled compliance reviews and audits, ensuring that operational and safety standards are consistently met. Any identified risks or non-compliance issues will be escalated for resolution in collaboration with senior leadership

Maintenance & Technical Operations

• Develop and implement maintenance programs You will execute a structured maintenance program, integrating preventive, corrective, and predictive maintenance strategies to enhance asset longevity and operational reliability

• Oversee critical infrastructure performance You will manage the operation and maintenance of electrical, HVAC, plumbing, and structural systems on the exteriors of the buildings. This includes conducting condition assessments, troubleshooting performance issues, and coordinating necessary repairs or upgrades

• Utilize maintenance tracking systems You will leverage a Computerized Maintenance Management System (CMMS) to track work orders, manage service requests, and analyze maintenance trends. This ensures efficient operations and data-driven decision-making

Vendor & Financial Management

• Oversee vendor relationships and performance You will coordinate vendor selection, ensuring contractors meet technical qualifications, safety standards, and performance expectations. You will track vendor work quality, enforce service agreements, and provide performance feedback

• Manage operational budgets You will monitor maintenance and operational budgets, ensuring expenses align with financial planning objectives. You will identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining infrastructure integrity and service quality

• Support capital expenditure planning You will contribute to the planning and execution of capital projects by assessing infrastructure conditions, reviewing vendor proposals, and coordinating project timelines and deliverables

Risk Management & Emergency Preparedness

• Conduct proactive risk assessments You will regularly assess infrastructure vulnerabilities and develop mitigation strategies to prevent disruptions in critical environments. You will analyze maintenance data, vendor reports, and past incidents to identify trends that require attention

• Implement emergency response protocols You will ensure all emergency response procedures align with business continuity and safety requirements. This includes coordinating drills, scenario planning, and on-site incident management

• Serve as an on-site emergency lead You will act as the first point of contact for infrastructure-related emergencies, ensuring swift coordination with internal teams, emergency responders, and regulatory agencies

Stakeholder & Tenant Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary tenant liaison You will communicate with tenants regarding maintenance activities, service disruptions, and infrastructure updates, ensuring clear expectations and minimal operational impact

• Conduct regular tenant engagement meetings You will schedule routine check-ins with tenants to gather feedback, address concerns, and proactively manage infrastructure dependencies

• Ensure transparency in service delivery You will provide timely updates on service requests, project timelines, and escalation pathways, ensuring tenants remain informed and confident in operational processes

Stakeholder Collaboration & Communication

• Coordinate with internal and external teams You will work closely with procurement, legal, security, and sustainability teams to align operational priorities with business objectives

• Ensure clear and proactive communication You will establish structured communication channels, ensuring all stakeholders remain informed about ongoing activities, planned maintenance, and potential service impacts

• Support leadership in strategic initiatives You will provide data driven insights and operational updates to senior leadership, contributing to infrastructure planning and organizational improvements

Education, Skills, and Experience

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in facilities operations, critical environments, or industrial infrastructure management

• At least 3 years in a leadership role overseeing maintenance teams or vendor operations

• Strong technical knowledge of electrical, mechanical, and structural systems in critical environments

• Experience managing vendor contracts, budgets, and compliance processes

• Proficiency in CMMS platforms and data driven maintenance tracking

• Knowledge of regulatory standards, risk management, and emergency response protocols

• Strong communication and leadership skills, with the ability to manage cross-functional teams and tenant relationships

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rowan Digital is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome and celebrate diversity in all aspects of our workforce. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other legally protected status. We strive to create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.