Senior Project Development Manager (m/w/d)

Job Description

This critical Senior Project Development Manager role will be the first hire of this kind in our newly created Data Center vertical.

You will oversee the execution of behind-the-meter (BTM), or off-grid microgrids, gas-fired power plants, and solar storage systems for hyperscale and colocation data centers. This role combines a strong business acumen, stakeholder management, problem-solving, and a builder's mindset. You will drive the expansion of our data center power solutions, build trusted partnerships, and ensure Scale remains at the forefront of decarbonized, resilient, and scalable energy infrastructure for mission-critical facilities.

Ideally, this is a hybrid role based out of one of our offices in Ridgewood, NJ, NYC, or Oakland, CA. We can also consider a fully remote role for the right person.

Key Responsibilities

• Project design support: Engage during the design phase to ensure that execution details are integrated into project plans from the outset (e.g., provide insights into natural gas requirements, operational feasibility, vendor alignment, and other operational feasibility risks). Ensure that customer expectations, technical requirements, and regulatory considerations are on track to be fully addressed.
• Site regulation and infrastructure: Manage relationships with regulatory bodies, utilities, and local authorities to secure necessary approvals and ensure compliance. Execute any infrastructure updates required for the site, including natural gas pipeline connection and potential lateral builds.
• Construction oversight: Lead EPC oversight activities, ensuring all vendors and contractors deliver in alignment with the expectations and timelines of data center customers. Monitor construction progress against the agreed-upon schedule, proactively identifying and resolving delays or bottlenecks to maintain project momentum. Conduct regular site visits and progress reviews, ensuring adherence to quality standards, safety protocols, and contractual obligations. Serve as the primary point of contact for senior leadership during the construction phase, providing updates, addressing concerns, and ensuring satisfaction with project execution.
• Additional duties as required

The Ideal Candidate

• Extensive experience in EPC oversight for large-scale infrastructure projects: Proven ability to oversee EPC activities for complex projects, such as data center builds or powerplant installations. Requires a track record of delivering projects on time and within budget while maintaining high-quality standards. Has dealt with high-stakes environments with liquidated damages.
• Expertise in regulatory compliance and infrastructure development: Significant experience managing permitting processes, utility connections (e.g., natural gas pipelines), and other regulatory requirements for large-scale energy or data center projects. Familiarity with local, state, and federal regulations governing energy infrastructure is essential.
• Customer-focused project leadership: Demonstrated ability to engage with hyperscalers, colocation providers, or other large-scale customers, ensuring their needs are met throughout the project lifecycle. Given they will often be on site with the data center teams, a history of building trust and long-term relationships with customers through transparent communication and delivery excellence will be important.

This is a great opportunity to have a long-term impact on a fast-paced, private equity-backed growth business. Some of the core virtues embraced by Scales' employees include:

• Do the Right Thing
• Act Like an Owner
• Hustle
• Demand Results
• Go Together
• Evolve or Disappear

We offer a competitive compensation package and a comprehensive benefits program including medical benefits, paid vacation and holidays, and 401K matching.