Data Center Project Manager

TypeContractExperience-1SalaryUp to $60 / hourNesco Data Center is seeking a Data Center Project Manager in the Greater Austin TX area.Data Center Project ManagerPosition SummaryWe are seeking an experienced Data Center Project Manager to lead complex infrastructure projects from planning through execution. This is an ideal opportunity for a project manager who has built their career within the data center industry and understands the technical aspects of critical infrastructure while excelling at customer communication, project coordination, scheduling, and execution.The ideal candidate has previous hands-on experience supporting data center deployments (such as rack and stack, structured cabling, hardware installations, or smart hands services) and has successfully transitioned into project management. This individual will serve as the primary point of contact for customers, vendors, subcontractors, and internal teams to ensure projects are delivered safely, on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.This position requires strong leadership, exceptional organizational skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in mission-critical environments.Key ResponsibilitiesProject ManagementLead multiple data center infrastructure projects from kickoff through final customer acceptance.Develop and maintain detailed project schedules, milestones, and resource plans.Manage project scope, timelines, budgets, risks, and deliverables.Coordinate internal technical teams, subcontractors, and third-party vendors.Facilitate project kickoff meetings, status meetings, and customer reviews.Track project progress and proactively address schedule or resource constraints.Identify project risks and implement mitigation strategies.Ensure projects meet quality standards, contractual requirements, and customer expectations.Prepare project documentation, reports, change requests, and closeout documentation.Customer Relationship ManagementServe as the primary point of contact for customers throughout the project lifecycle.Build strong relationships through clear communication, transparency, and responsiveness.Manage customer expectations regarding schedules, deliverables, and project changes.Provide regular project updates, executive summaries, and status reports.Coordinate customer approvals, maintenance windows, and project milestones.Data Center Infrastructure CoordinationManage projects involving:Rack and stack deploymentsServer, storage, and network hardware installationsStructured cabling projects (fiber and copper)Data center expansions and consolidationsData center migrations and relocationsSmart Hands servicesHardware refresh initiativesEquipment decommissioning and asset dispositionNetwork infrastructure deploymentsCross-connect installationsCage and suite buildoutsRaised floor and cabinet installationsCritical Facilities & Construction CoordinationCoordinate projects involving:Electrical fit-outs and infrastructure upgradesUPS systemsPower distribution units (PDUs)Busway installationsGenerator integrationCooling infrastructureCRAH/CRAC systemsCDU and liquid cooling implementationsCommissioning activitiesMechanical and electrical contractorsLow-voltage contractorsSecurity and access control systemsBuilding management systems (Client)Fire detection and suppression systemsVendor & Contractor ManagementCoordinate schedules between customers, vendors, field technicians, and subcontractors.Manage hardware manufacturers, logistics providers, and commissioning partners.Ensure vendor deliverables align with overall project schedules.Review statements of work, change orders, and project documentation.Escalate issues when necessary to maintain project momentum.Resource & Schedule ManagementBuild realistic project schedules using industry-standard project management methodologies.Coordinate labor requirements and technician assignments.Manage project dependencies and critical path activities.Track project budgets, labor utilization, and forecasting.Ensure resources are available to meet customer deadlines.Documentation & ComplianceMaintain complete project documentation throughout the project lifecycle.Ensure adherence to customer standards, safety procedures, and site requirements.Manage change control documentation.Coordinate site access, badging, and project logistics.Support commissioning documentation and turnover packages.Ensure compliance with all applicable safety and operational policies.Required Qualifications5+ years of project management experience within the data center industry.Previous hands-on experience in data center operations, deployments, or infrastructure installations.Strong understanding of rack and stack methodologies and best practices.Experience managing multiple concurrent infrastructure projects.Proven ability to build and manage detailed project schedules.Experience leading customer-facing projects from planning through completion.Strong understanding of mission-critical environments and data center operations.Excellent communication, presentation, and organizational skills.Ability to prioritize competing deadlines in a fast-paced environment.Proficiency with Microsoft Project, Smartsheet, Monday.com, Asana, or similar project management platforms.Strong knowledge of Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook.Preferred QualificationsExperience managing projects involving:Enterprise data centersColocation facilitiesHyperscale environmentsFinancial services data centersHealthcare infrastructureGovernment or secure facilitiesCommissioning projectsElectrical and mechanical infrastructure upgradesNetwork infrastructure deploymentsStructured cabling installationsHardware lifecycle managementSecurity and access control systemsProfessional certifications such as PMP, CAPM, PMI-ACP, Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), CDCP, CDCS, or other relevant project management or data center certifications are preferred but not required.Core CompetenciesProject leadershipCustomer relationship managementRisk managementSchedule developmentBudget managementVendor managementExecutive communicationNegotiationProblem solvingTeam leadershipDecision makingCritical thinkingOrganization and planningTime managementAttention to detailConflict resolutionPhysical RequirementsAbility to work within active data center environments.Ability to wear required personal protective equipment (PPE) while onsite.TravelThis position is primarily intended for candidates local to the supported market to minimize routine travel. Limited travel to customer locations may be required for project kickoffs, site assessments, implementation oversight, and future engagements. Candidates should be willing to travel occasionally as business needs dictate.Nesco Resource offers a comprehensive benefits package for our associates, which includes a MEC (Minimum Essential Coverage) plan that encompasses Medical, Vision, Dental, 401K, and EAP (Employee Assistance Program) services. Nesco Resource provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.