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Equinix

Real Estate Development Director - Data Center Industry

Equinix, Ashburn, Virginia, United States, 22011

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Real Estate Development Director - Data Center Industry

at Equinix 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

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, navigating 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 and 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 proven experience 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.

Pay Range

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

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 target 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.

We use artificial intelligence in our hiring process. Learn more here.

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