Real Estate Development Director - Data Center Industry

Who are we?

Equinix is the world’s digital infrastructure company®, shortening the path to connectivity to enable the innovations that enrich our work, life and planet.

A place where bold ideas are welcomed, human connection is valued, and everyone has the opportunity to shape their future.

A career at Equinix means being at the center of shaping what comes next and amplifying customer value through innovation and impact. You’ll work across teams, influence key decisions, and help shape the path forward. You’ll find belonging, purpose, and a team that welcomes you—because when you feel valued, you’re empowered to do your best work.

Job Summary

The Real Estate Development Director will lead the strategic planning and execution of data center development projects, driving key milestones to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery. This role requires collaboration with internal teams, external stakeholders, and local planning departments to secure approvals, manage entitlements, and oversee the development lifecycle of large-scale data center facilities.

Responsibilities

Project Management

• Drive critical milestones for long-term data center development projects, ensuring alignment with organizational goals, budgets, and timelines

Entitlements, Subdivision Consent and Permitting

• Collaborate with local, state, and federal planning departments to secure necessary permits, zoning approvals, and environmental clearances. Navigate regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance

Stakeholder Coordination

• Work with architects, engineers, contractors, and utility providers to align project specifications with technical and operational requirements

Community Engagement

• Represent the company in public hearings and community meetings, addressing concerns and building positive relationships with local stakeholders

Budget and Schedule Oversight

• Develop and manage project budgets, timelines, and risk mitigation strategies to deliver projects on scope and within financial targets

Reporting and Communication

• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on project progress, risks, and key decisions. Maintain clear documentation for all development activities. Provide JV reporting and communication as needed

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Real Estate, Urban Planning, Civil Engineering, Business Administration, or a related field. Master’s degree or MBA preferred

Experience

• 10+ years of experience in real estate development, with at least proven years in the data center or technology infrastructure sector

Skills

• Strong knowledge of zoning, land use regulations, and permitting processes

• Proven ability to manage complex, multi-year development projects with

• budgets exceeding $50M

• Excellent negotiation and interpersonal skills to manage diverse stakeholders

• Familiarity with data center infrastructure requirements, including power, cooling, and connectivity

• Proficiency in project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Primavera) and financial modeling

• Certifications: PMP, LEED AP, or CCIM certification is a plus

• Attributes: Strategic thinker, detail-oriented, and adept at problem-solving under pressure

Work Environment

• Travel: Up to 30% travel to project sites, planning offices, and stakeholder meetings

The targeted pay range for this position in the following location is / locations are:

United States - Redwood City Office GHQ : 213,000 - 319,000 USD / Annual

United States - Dallas Infomart Office DAI : 177,000 - 265,000 USD / Annual

United States - Ashburn Office AEO : 195,000 - 293,000 USD / Annual

Our pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and location. The pay range shown is based on our compensation structure in place at the time of posting and may be updated periodically based on business needs. Individual pay is based on additional factors including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training.

The targeted pay range listed reflects the base pay only and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Employees are eligible for bonus, and equity may be offered depending on the position.

Equinix Benefits

As an employee, you become important to Equinix’s success. We ensure all your benefits are in line with our core values: competitive, inclusive, sustainable, connected and efficient. We keep them competitive within the current marketplace to ensure we’re providing you with the best package possible. So, wherever you are in your career and life, you’ll be able to enhance your experience and bring your whole self to work.

Employee Assistance Program : An Employee Assistance program is available to all employees.

US Benefits: - Insurance: You may enroll in health, life, disability and voluntary plans that are designed for you and your eligible family members. - Retirement: You and Equinix may contribute to a retirement plan to help you plan for your financial future. - Paid Time Off (PTO) and Paid Holidays: You will receive an accrued amount of PTO each pay period along with various paid holidays for you to rest and recharge. Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific plan or program terms.

Equinix is committed to ensuring that our employment process is open to all individuals, including those with a disability. If you are a qualified candidate and need assistance or an accommodation, please let us know by completing this form .

Equinix is an Equal Employment Opportunity and, in the U.S., an Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to unlawful consideration of race, color, religion, creed, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, place of birth, citizenship, sex, pregnancy / childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or domestic partnership status, age, veteran or military status, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, political / organizational affiliation, status as a victim or family member of a victim of crime or abuse, or any other status protected by applicable law.

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