Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced and analytical Principal Data Center Capacity Planner to lead strategic long-range capacity planning for our global data center footprint. This role requires a deep understanding of utility infrastructure constraints, capital planning, and customer demand forecasting to ensure reliable and cost-efficient deployment of IT and facility capacity.
The ideal candidate will blend quantitative modeling expertise with a strong business acumen and data center industry knowledge. This role will be the strategic architect of our datacenter footprint. Also responsible for the lifecycle of physical capacity, from long-range forecasting of space and power to the granular execution of rack-level deployments. The mission is to ensure we never run out of "white space" while maintaining maximum efficiency in power and cooling utilization.
We are considering candidates that reside in Seattle, WA, Denver, CO, Arlington, VA or Austin, TX
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Forecasting & Demand Modeling
- Develop multi-year capacity roadmaps by translating business growth and IT service demands into physical infrastructure requirements (Space, Power, Cooling, and Network ports).
- Build and maintain complex "What-If" scenarios to predict the impact of new hardware technologies (e.g., high-density AI/GPU clusters) on existing facility limits.
Rack-Level Planning & Layout Design
- Design and approve detailed rack elevations and floor maps, ensuring optimal airflow (Hot/Cold aisle containment) and weight distribution.
- Manage Stranded Capacity: Identify and remediate imbalances where power and cooling is available but space is restricted, or vice versa.
- Ensure that cabling, power placement, and network topologies align with engineering standards.
- Ensure liquid fill stations are managed for a pre-determined throughput per day and enough liquid buffer in place. Fill station capacity plan should be included in overall rack deployment planning.
- Plan for spare parts for all critical infrastructure
Infrastructure Management (DCIM)
- Act as the Subject Matter Expert for DCIM tools (e.g., Sunbird, Nlyte, etc), ensuring 100% data accuracy for all physical assets.
- Monitor real-time power consumption at the rack and electrical equipment levels to prevent circuit overloads and maintain redundancy.
Cross-Functional Leadership
- Partner with Finance and Procurement to manage CAPEX/OPEX budgets related to datacenter expansion and hardware refreshes.
- Collaborate with Site Operations and Facilities Engineering to coordinate maintenance windows and capacity handoffs.
Strategic Capacity Planning
- Develop and maintain long-term (2–10 year) data center capacity plans for all active and emerging regions.
- Align plans with utility availability, capital investment cycles, infrastructure deployment timelines, and customer demand profiles.
- Produce and update rolling multi-year capacity models and P90+ scenario analyses that support utility contract commitments and long-lead procurement.
Utility Engagement & Load Ramping
- Translate long-range plans into utility-specific load ramping forecasts and infrastructure phasing schedules.
- Partner with utility planning and real estate teams to support site acquisition and transmission interconnect negotiations.
- Support contract st