Senior Civil Engineer

Data center design is one of the most technically demanding niches in civil engineering. The tolerances are tighter, the site constraints are more complex, and the coordination requirements across disciplines are unlike most other project types. If you have designed hyperscale or mission critical facilities and genuinely understand what that involves from a civil perspective, this is worth your attention.

Our client is a global engineering consultancy with a focused practice in data center and mission critical facility design. They work with major operators from early feasibility all the way through to permit stage and they are growing their civil engineering capability with engineers who have real data center design exposure, not just general industrial experience.

The role

As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will be involved from the very start of projects. Feasibility studies, basic design, and permitting. You will design and model civil engineering components both above and below ground, with a particular focus on the complex underground infrastructure that defines data center sites. Emergency fuel systems, drainage, sewerage, seismic isolated pits, and underground cable and pipe routing are all part of the scope.

You will coordinate directly with clients and work alongside architects, MEP engineers, structural engineers, and fire safety specialists to deliver integrated, constructible designs. You will also review the work of colleagues, contribute to design quality across the team, and bring your data center knowledge into the day to day, not just your own output but the team's.

What the work involves

• Civil design for hyperscale and mission critical data center projects, from feasibility through to permit
• Underground infrastructure specific to data center sites: emergency fuel tank systems, drainage, sewerage, seismic isolated pits, cable and pipe trenches, and fiber pits
• Above-ground site design covering site layout, paving, roads, parking, grading, stormwater management, and ADA compliance
• 3D modelling in Revit within a BIM environment. BIM360 experience is valued and Revizto knowledge is a bonus
• Cross-discipline coordination with architecture, MEP, structural, and fire safety teams
• Document review, design quality assurance, and preparation of tender documents
• Direct client engagement and contribution to design reviews and stakeholder meetings

What they're looking for

• At least 10 years of civil engineering experience with a relevant degree. Data center design experience is the priority. Whether that is hyperscale greenfield sites, colocation facilities, or mission critical infrastructure of similar complexity, you understand what makes a data center site different from a standard industrial project and that knowledge shapes how you approach the civil design.
• Hands-on experience with underground infrastructure in a data center context is particularly important. Fuel tank systems, drainage, and below-grade utility routing are areas where you need to have genuine depth. Beyond that, you are comfortable in a BIM environment using Revit and AutoCAD, and you can prepare and review tender documentation without needing it handed to you.
• You are proactive, communicate clearly across disciplines, and are comfortable engaging directly with clients. English is the working language and Dutch is a welcome addition but not a barrier to applying.
• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

If you do not meet every requirement but have a strong background in high-voltage Protection and Control engineering and a genuine interest in this field, we still encourage you to apply. The right combination of technical experience, motivation, and willingness to grow can make you a strong candidate.

Relocation

This position is based in the Netherlands and will require relocation. We understand that making an international move is a significant decision and we are here to make that process as straightforward as possible.

As part of your contract, FairPlay Engineering provides a Premium Relocation Package. This includes visa sponsorship, guidance before your move, and dedicated support from a relocation consultant throughout the process. You can find more information on the Relocating with us page on our website.

Apply

We appreciate every application we receive. Because this is a specialised role, we will contact candidates whose experience closely matches the requirements.

If you have not heard from us within two weeks, your application has unfortunately not been selected for the next step.

FairPlay Engineering specialises in recruiting engineers for roles in the Netherlands. If this vacancy is not the right match for you, keep an eye on our vacancies page for future opportunities.