Company Profile
nLighten is a European platform of distributed edge data centers, designed to meet the growing demand for AI, 5G, and hybrid cloud deployments. As a rapidly expanding provider, we offer scalable colocation hubs and best-in-class energy solutions across Europe. Our innovative and sustainable approach to digital infrastructure ensures reliability, efficient, future-ready solutions for our clients. nLighten’s current footprint is 34 data centers in 7 European countries, with the ambition to grow to 100 sites during the next 3-4 years.
Learn more about us: www.nlighten.com
About the Role
We are seeking a Master Planner to manage the inception of capital projects across Europe. This is an architectural engineering role that is critical in defining and optimizing the expansion strategy for our facilities. The principal responsibilities include developing preliminary designs, supporting the continuous enhancement of reference designs, and leading engineering procurement and design activities. The candidate will ensure cost-effective scalability and integrate standardized modular designs into new data center developments. You will work closely with internal stakeholders, design consultants, and local advisors to deliver high-quality masterplans that drive operational efficiency and commercial success.
Key Responsibilities
Master Planning & Project Inception
* Manage the inception of capital projects, ensuring optimal unit costs per kW for expanding and stabilizing the data center portfolio.
* Oversee the two-stage master planning process and provide specialist technical support across nLighten’s data center portfolio.
Short-Form Masterplans (RIBA Stage 1 - Preparation & Briefing)
* Provide initial concept reports integrating technical due diligence, utility capacity, and expansion potential.
* Support investment decisions, M&A activities, and inform long-lead procurement, construction programming, and sales inventory planning, including flexibility for retail, cloud, and AI deployments.
Long-Form Masterplans (RIBA Stage 2 - Concept Design)
* Develop detailed spatial and design plans integrating existing assets into expansion strategies.
* Refine project briefs, establish key design principles, and ensure standardization around modular, prefabricated components to improve efficiency, drive cost savings, and reduce lead times.
Consultant Management & Stakeholder Coordination
* Manage external design consultants and technical advisors to ensure timely and cost-effective master planning execution.
* Collect and incorporate feedback from internal stakeholders to align the project brief with wider business objectives.
* Support business case development and the delivery of utility services, statutory approvals, design, construction, and other pre-sales activities.
Design Standardization & Optimization
* Standardize design elements across regions to enable efficient procurement, operational consistency, and streamlined certification processes.
* Integrate high-density and modular design solutions to optimize space utilization, energy efficiency, and scalability for retail, AI, and cloud workloads.
* Coordinate with energy and sustainability teams to incorporate energy procurement forecasts, heat recovery, and sector coupling solutions.
Continuous Improvement & Reporting
* Drive continuous improvement and automation in the master planning process using 3D modeling and standardized design tools.
* Present masterplans to leadership, commercial, and operations teams, aligning stakeholders on cost, scale, and phasing decisions.
Performance Metrics
* Cost per kW and spatial efficiency benchmarks
* Target PUE, WUE, and energy efficiency metrics
* Standardization of plant designs and procurement efficiencies
* Timely delivery of masterplans aligned with commercial expansion goals
What We’re Looking For
* Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Engineering, Architecture, or related fields.
* 4–8 years of experience in MEP or multi-disciplinary design, master planning, or infrastructure development, including experience within the data center industry.
* Understanding of European permitting and construction processes.
* Technical expertise in data center infrastructure, including electrical, HVAC, cooling systems, or Civil, Structural, and Architectural construction systems.
* Experience with design and modeling applications, ideally with interests in automation and prefabrication.
* Excellent communication skills, with the ability to understand and convey complex engineering problems to diverse stakeholders.
Why Join Us?
* Work with a pioneering company driving the future of digital infrastructure and edge data centers.
* Pioneer a sustainable AI ecosystem. Enable an AI transition that is compatible with net-zero.
* Drive a circular digital economy. Develop data centers that re-use existing buildings. Integrate digital infrastructure into our communities and energy systems.
* Develop design-driven solutions that shape expansion strategies across Europe.
* Collaborate in a fast-growing, diverse, and innovative environment.
* Be part of a company that values sustainability, efficiency, and cutting-edge solutions.
If you’re excited about efficiency, believe in the value of great design and have expertise in master planning and data center infrastructure, we’d love to hear from you.
Some travel is required.
Apply now and be part of our journey toward a more connected, efficient, and sustainable digital future.
Background Check & Screening
All selected candidates will undergo a background check to ensure a safe workplace, protect company assets, and comply with regulations.
Diversity & Inclusion Statement
nLighten is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace, and we encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds. Even if you do not meet every requirement listed, we welcome your application. We particularly encourage women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.