Position Summary
This is a unique opportunity to lead cutting-edge, large-scale data center projects as our organization expands into a Prime Contractor role . You will help define how we deliver mission critical projects at scale-combining MEP expertise with full-scope GC leadership -while working on some of the most complex and high-impact builds in the industry.
We are seeking a Project Executive with deep General Contractor (GC) experience and a proven track record delivering large-scale, mission critical data center projects. This role will lead projects where our MEP organization is serving as the Prime Contractor, taking full accountability for end-to-end project delivery across all trades.
This individual must bring a builder-first mindset, strong technical fluency in MEP systems, and the ability to lead highly complex, fast-paced projects with zero tolerance for downtime, quality issues, or schedule slip.
Position Details
Full-Scope Project Leadership (Prime/GC Role)
Serve as the shared point of accountability for project delivery (safety, schedule, cost, quality)
Lead execution of hyperscale / mission critical data center projects ($100M-$1B+)
Oversee all scopes including civil, structural, architectural, and MEP trades
Drive alignment across design, procurement, construction, commissioning, and turnover
Mission Critical Execution
Ensure successful delivery of high-availability systems (power, cooling, redundancy, commissioning)
Lead teams in achieving strict uptime, redundancy (N/N+1/2N), and commissioning standards
Integrate phased turnovers, early energization, and critical path systems startup
Partner with commissioning teams to ensure seamless Level 1-5 commissioning processes
Preconstruction & Strategic Planning
Lead front-end planning including logistics, phasing, procurement strategy, and long-lead equipment alignment (switchgear, generators, chillers, etc.)
Drive constructability reviews and value engineering specific to mission critical environments
Build and manage aggressive, milestone-driven schedules with a focus on speed-to-market
Contract & Commercial Management
Own the prime contract and all subcontractor/vendor agreements
Manage large-scale project financials including forecasting, cost control, and margin protection
Lead change management in a high-volume, fast-paced environment
Proactively manage risk, claims, and dispute resolution
Client Leadership (Hyperscale/Enterprise Clients)
Serve as primary interface with sophisticated data center clients (hyperscalers, colocation providers)
Lead executive-level reporting, schedule reviews, and risk discussions
Build trust through transparency, urgency, and consistent delivery
Field & Team Leadership
Lead and align large, matrixed teams (Project Managers, Superintendents, Engineers, external trade partners)
Drive coordination between field operations and technical MEP teams
Develop and mentor next-generation leaders within the organization
Safety & Quality
Champion a zero-incident safety culture
Enforce strict QA/QC standards aligned with mission critical expectations
Ensure all installations meet design intent, commissioning requirements, and client standards
Qualifications
Required
7-10+ years of construction experience with significant tenure in a General Contractor role
Proven success delivering large-scale mission critical/data center projects ($100M+; hyperscale preferred)
Experience leading projects with responsibility for all trades as the Prime/GC
Deep understanding of MEP systems in mission critical environments (power distribution, backup systems, cooling infrastructure)
Strong expertise in CPM scheduling, cost control, contracts, and risk management
Demonstrated ability to operate in fast-track, high-pressure environments
Preferred
Experience with hyperscale clients (e.g., large cloud providers) or major colocation developers
Background in MEP contracting with transition into GC/Prime leadership
Familiarity with commissioning processes (Level 1-5) and integrated systems testing
Bachelor's degree in Construction Management, Engineering, or related field
PMP, CCM, or similar certification
Benefits
As a 100% employee-owned company, we offer a comprehensive benefits package for you and your family:
401(k) plan with 50% company match (no cap) and immediate 100% vesting
Medical, dental, and vision insurance (100% paid for employee)
Annual bonus program based upon performance, achievement, and company profitability
Term life, AD&D insurance, and voluntary life insurance
Disability income protection insurance
Pre-tax flexible spending plans (health and dependent care)
Paid parental leave
Paid holidays, vacation, and personal time
Training/professional development opportunities and company-paid memberships for professional associations and licenses
Wellness benefits
About Southland Industries
As one of the nation's largest MEP companies, Southland Industries is built on the foundation of great people. Since 1949, we have put our people first, enabling growth, professional achievement, and innovation. If you want to join a fast-paced environment where you're engaged, challenged, and valued, apply now to join our dynamic team.
To learn more about careers at Southland, explore our career opportunities (https://southlandind.foleon.com/experienced-professionals/brochure/) , follow us on social media (https://www.linkedin.com/company/22132/?trk=tyah) , and check out our website (https://southlandind.com/) .
Southland Industries and all its subsidiaries are an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. We are committed to the principle of equal employment opportunity for all employees and to providing our employees with a safe work environment free of discrimination and harassment. All employment decisions at Southland Industries are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion or belief, gender, national origin, ancestry, age, disability, medical condition, marital status, family care or medical leave status, veteran status, or any other status protected by the laws or regulations in the locations where we operate. Southland Industries will not tolerate discrimination or harassment based on any of these characteristics.
Contingent Employment: All employment offers are contingent upon successful drug tests, background checks, and professional reference checks. Roles that include driving as an essential job duty will be required to have a successful Motor Vehicle Record check (MVR). We are not able to offer sponsorship of employment at this time.
External Agency Announcement : Its Southland Industries' policy not to accept candidate submissions from recruiting agencies without an active and authorized work order. Candidate ownership can only be established after a bona fide work order is issued by a member of the Southland Industries Talent Acquisition team and the candidate is appropriately submitted through our Applicant Tracking System (ATS).
Required Skills
Required Experience
