Senior Operations Director, Data Centers

JLL

Minneapolis, MN

Full Time

Posted August 25, 2026

$141k - $205k

Power Generation

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Listing evidence and provenance

Source: Workday View original listing
Freshness: Open in the current public read path; this is not an employer guarantee.Last observed October 5, 2026
Classification: Modern power-system classification not yet published for this listing.Legacy source industry field: Power Generation
Pay provenance: Employer-provided pay

Job Description

The Senior Operations Director is a key leadership role responsible for overseeing the operations and performance of data centers.

Key Responsibilities

Develop and implement strategic initiatives and operational plans to drive efficiency, scalability, and resilience across the data center operations. Align operational strategies with overall business objectives and industry best practices.
Provide leadership and direction to a team of Facility Managers, Regional Facility Managers, and other operational staff across multiple data center sites. Foster a high-performance culture, promote collaboration, and ensure effective resource allocation and capacity planning.
Monitor and evaluate the performance of data center operations, ensuring adherence to service level agreements, key performance indicators, and operational metrics. Mitigate risks through regular assessments, implement improvements, and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
Drive continuous improvement initiatives across the data center operations to enhance efficiency, reduce downtime, and minimize risks. Implement best practices, develop standardized processes, and leverage automation technologies to optimize operations.
Oversee the financial aspects of data center operations, including budget planning, forecasting, and cost control. Monitor expenses, identify cost-saving opportunities, and ensure financial objectives are met while maintaining operational integrity.
Act as a primary point of contact for senior management, clients, partners, and vendors. Ensure effective communication, manage expectations, and build strong relationships to facilitate collaboration and drive operational success.
Manage relationships with strategic vendors and contractors, ensuring service level agreements are met, contracts negotiated, and services delivered as per agreed terms. Conduct performance reviews and drive continuous improvements in vendor performance.
Stay informed about emerging technologies and industry trends related to data center operations. Evaluate and implement innovative solutions to enhance efficiency, scalability, security, and sustainability within the data center operations.
Ensure adherence to all applicable regulatory requirements, industry standards, and internal policies. Stay updated on changes in regulations, implement necessary measures, and manage audits and compliance assessments effectively.
Develop and maintain robust business continuity plans for data center operations, including disaster recovery procedures, incident management, and crisis response. Ensure data center operations can quickly recover and resume normal operations during disruptive events.
Perform additional job duties as required.

Requirements

Directly supervise the Regional Facility Managers. Responsible for all onsite employees.
Directly supervise the CE Program Teams on the account.
Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the policies enumerated with Jones Lang LaSalle and applicable laws.
Responsibilities include interviewing, hiring, and training employees.
Planning, assigning, and directing work.
Appraising performance.
Rewarding and disciplining employees.
Addressing complaints and resolving problems.
Systems, emergency generators, and switchgears.
High School diploma or GED equivalent
10+ years work experience in data centers.
Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.
Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures, or governmental regulations and codes.
Ability to write routine reports and correspondence.
Ability to speak effectively before leadership groups, tenants or employees.
Ability to use drawings, specifications, shop math and various measuring or testing instruments.
Working knowledge or the capability of developing proficient knowledge of Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel, Outlook and Microsoft Access and any other software packages recommended.
Demonstration of leadership ability, presentation capabilities and organization skills.
Ability to travel to locations throughout the United States.
Traversing large, campus-like settings.
Frequent walking, climbing, bending, kneeling, lifting, stooping, and working/extending overhead.
Ability to read and interpret technical diagrams, equipment labels, and facility documentation. Strong visual acuity is necessary for accurately assessing equipment conditions, identifying potential issues, and ensuring compliance with specifications.
Climbing stairs and navigating rooftops to access equipment.
Data Center Dashboard products
Corrigo Experience.
MCIM / Salesforce Experience.
Zendesk Experience.
Service Now Experience.
Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or construction preferred.
This position does not provide visa sponsorship. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.

Benefits & Perks

JLL recognizes the impact that the workplace can have on your wellness, so we offer a supportive culture and comprehensive benefits package that prioritizes mental, physical and emotional health. Some of these benefits may include:
401(k) plan with matching company contributions
Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay
At JLL, we harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI) to efficiently accelerate meaningful connections between candidates and opportunities. Using AI capabilities, we analyze your application for relevant skills, experiences, and qualifications to generate valuable insights about how your unique profile aligns with the specific requirements of the role you're pursuing.