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.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

• 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

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

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

• 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

• 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, USD / Annual
• United States - Dallas Infomart Office DAI : 177, USD / Annual
• United States - Ashburn Office AEO : 195, USD / Annual

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.

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…