Discover how to become a data center design engineer in 2025. Learn key skills, career paths, certifications, and explore job opportunities at gbc engineers.
What Is a Data Center Design Engineer?
A Data Center Design Engineer is a specialized professional who plans, designs, and oversees the construction of data center facilities. These specialists are responsible for ensuring optimal performance, efficiency, and scalability while addressing the technical, environmental, and operational challenges of modern data infrastructure. They play a critical role in supporting cloud computing and digital transformation across industries.
Key Responsibilities:
Site Selection and Evaluation
Evaluate geographical and technical feasibility for new data center locations.
Assess key factors such as power availability, fiber connectivity, climate risks, and proximity to key users or networks, with a focus on operational safety and resilience.
Facility Layout and Design
Design physical layouts for server rooms, power distribution units (PDUs), cooling zones, and IT equipment racks.
Optimize airflow, redundancy, maintenance access, and scalability to support continuous operations and ensure a safe working environment for people on site.
Electrical and Mechanical Systems Engineering
Design electrical systems, including UPS, backup generators, and switchgear, to ensure critical power delivery.
Plan and implement mechanical infrastructure, such as CRAC units, chillers, and ventilation systems, vital for the uninterrupted functioning of cloud services.
Integration of Sustainability Measures
Incorporate energy-efficient systems, waste heat recovery, renewable energy sources, and water-saving strategies.
Align with international data center standards such as EN 50600 and ANSI/TIA-942 while maintaining a strong focus on environmental and people-centric impacts.
Security and Compliance
Implement physical security (access controls, surveillance) and ensure compliance with privacy policy frameworks and cybersecurity regulations to protect critical data assets.
Project & Construction Management
Manage project timelines, budgets, and stakeholder coordination, ensuring new designs meet evolving demands.
Oversee contractors and ensure all systems meet required certifications, safety standards, and performance targets for long-term operations.
How to Become a Data Center Design Engineer in 2025
Educational Pathway
Most Data Center Engineers begin with a bachelor’s degree in one of the following disciplines:
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Information Technology or Computer Science
- Architectural Engineering or Building Services
- Advanced degrees or post-graduate diplomas in sustainable design, MEP systems, or project management can enhance your career prospects, especially for senior roles.
Experience
Internships or entry-level roles in IT infrastructure or MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) design.
Exposure to data center operations, especially in monitoring, maintaining, or upgrading IT hardware and systems.
Skills You Need to Succeed in Data Center Design
Becoming a high-performing Data Center Engineer means developing a well-rounded skillset that combines technical knowledge, analytical thinking, and effective communication.
Technical Skills:
- HVAC and power distribution design
- CAD/BIM software (AutoCAD, Revit, Navisworks)
- Electrical load calculations
- Network infrastructure and structured cabling
- Redundancy planning and fault-tolerant system design
- Familiarity with codes and data center compliance frameworks (EN 50600, ISO/IEC 22237, Uptime Tiers)
- Understanding of sustainability metrics like PUE, WUE, and GHG emissions
Read More: Comprehensive Overview of Data Center Design Standards in 2025 - gbc engineers
Soft Skills:
- Project management and scheduling
- Communication across multidisciplinary teams
- Problem-solving and quick decision-making
- Documentation and report writing
- Adaptability to emerging technologies
Career Path & Opportunities
Many professionals begin as junior engineers, CAD designers, or technicians in infrastructure or IT teams. With experience, you can move into roles such as:
- Data Center Facility Engineer
- MEP Design Engineer
- Design Manager or Technical Lead
- Project Manager or Engineering Consultant
- Sustainability Coordinator (Data Centers)
As hyperscale facilities continue to grow globally, opportunities are increasing in regions like Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
Read More: Data Center Services: Types, Importance, and Trends in 2025 - gbc engineers
Explore Career Opportunities at gbc engineers
About us
gbc engineers is an owner-operated, multi-disciplinary German engineering firm of consultants and advising specialists. With a team of over 200 dedicated employees, we deliver top-tier engineering consultancy, design, and project management services worldwide.
At gbc engineers, we are building the next generation of high-performance data centers across Germany, Cambodia, and Singapore. We specialize in structural engineering, BIM coordination, and sustainability consulting for major industrial and data infrastructure projects. Our expertise spans across various sectors of the industry, ensuring that we provide cutting-edge solutions for each unique challenge.
Our team brings together professionals from various disciplines who are passionate about finding innovative solutions for construction projects around the world. With over 200 employees at five international locations - Poland, Germany (two locations), Vietnam and Cambodia - we promote a dynamic exchange of knowledge. This enables us to combine regional characteristics with global standards.
Our engineering team brings together professionals with diverse experience from a wide range of projects and industries. They have worked on a wide range of construction projects worldwide, from complex building construction projects and industrial plants to infrastructure measures such as bridges, roads and railroad stations.
Explore Our Segments: Segments - gbc engineers
Why Work at gbc engineers?
gbc engineers offers an inclusive, international work culture that values collaboration, innovation, and personal development. We believe in empowering our team members through:
International work: With us, you have the opportunity to work in international teams and contribute to projects all over the world. Our multicultural cooperation brings diverse perspectives and new challenges.
Innovative projects: Whether it’s sustainable construction, infrastructure projects, or special solutions – we offer you the opportunity.
Personal development: We support your professional and personal development through training, further education and individual career plans.
Collegial working environment: With us, you can expect flat hierarchies, open communication and a strong team spirit. Our employees are our most important asset - that's why we attach great importance to a pleasant and supportive working environment.
Employee Benefits
- Working in a young, dynamic, and friendly environment with supportive individuals
- Develop your knowledge and skills in an international working environment for your future career path
- Compulsory insurance: Social insurance – Health – Unemployment according to Labor Law
- Take part in company events (Team building, Year-End party, football, badminton, etc.).
- Enjoy fruit and snacks at work (e.g. fruit day)
- Special awards for outstanding performance (employee of the quarter, employee of the year, etc.)
- Enjoy fully covered team building trips with the company
- At least 14 days Annual leave + 1 Birthday leave
Open Positions at gbc engineers: Join Us in Shaping the Future
Are you ready to design the infrastructure of the digital age? Whether you're a recent graduate, an experienced MEP engineer, or a sustainability expert, we have exciting roles waiting for you.
We are currently hiring for:
- Division Manager
- Structural Engineer Infrastructure
- Senior Structural Engineer
- BIM Team Leader...
Take the next step in your career. Visit our careers page to apply: Job Opportunities - gbc engineers
Conclusion
The demand for data center infrastructure will only accelerate in 2025 and beyond. If you're passionate about engineering, sustainability, and technology, becoming a data center design engineer is a rewarding career choice with global opportunities.
At gbc engineers, we don’t just build facilities—we shape the future of digital connectivity. Join us and be part of something meaningful.