Site Development Associate - Data Center Development

About the role

Galaxy is on the lookout for a Site Development Associate to play a crucial role in the development of data centers in Waco, Texas. This position involves overseeing the entitlement and permitting processes, fostering relationships with local government officials, negotiating land agreements, and coordinating with utility providers. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience in real estate development, particularly from land acquisition to entitlement, and will be eager to apply their skills within the data center sector.

Key facts

What you'll do

• Spearhead site entitlement initiatives, which encompass zoning, platting, land use approvals, and other necessary local governmental approvals to facilitate data center projects.
• Act as the primary liaison between the company and various municipal and county officials, including city councils and county commissioners, for assigned projects.
• Cultivate and sustain professional relationships with key local figures such as mayors, city managers, and county judges.
• Prepare and present information to city councils, planning boards, and other public entities to advocate for project approvals.
• Identify and secure necessary permits for site development, including building and access permits, while coordinating with public works and transportation authorities.
• Collaborate with utility service providers (electricity, water, wastewater, gas, telecom/fiber) to verify service capacity and requirements for potential sites.
• Assist in land acquisition efforts by identifying potential sites, negotiating with landowners, and structuring purchase agreements.
• Utilize knowledge of Texas oil, gas, and mineral rights to identify and address any related issues that may impact site control.
• Manage aspects of real estate contracts, title work, and the closing process, working alongside legal teams, title companies, and surveyors as necessary.
• Address claims that may arise during due diligence or construction phases, knowing when to escalate issues internally.
• Maintain clear and consistent communication with internal teams, including leadership, legal, engineering, and construction, regarding project progress and potential risks.
• Acquire a foundational understanding of data center development requirements, such as power, fiber, and water needs, and apply this knowledge to site selection and entitlement strategies.
• Travel within the Lubbock region and the broader Texas area as required to conduct site visits, attend public meetings, and negotiate with landowners.

Requirements

• Proven experience in real estate development, having participated in at least one completed project from acquisition to entitlement (commercial or residential); or equivalent experience in land management.
• Demonstrated ability to navigate the entitlement process and engage directly with municipal officials, city councils, and county commissioners.
• Comfort and experience in presenting to public bodies and internal leadership teams.
• Basic understanding of Texas oil, gas, and mineral rights and their implications for real estate transactions.
• Familiarity with real estate purchase contracts, title issues, and the closing process.
• Experience in negotiating with landowners or sellers in land acquisition scenarios.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of representing the company professionally to both external officials and internal stakeholders.
• A genuine interest in learning about data center development fundamentals.
• Valid driver's license and willingness to travel locally and regionally as required.

Nice to have

• Preference for candidates with commercial real estate development experience over residential.
• Previous experience in acquiring or coordinating utility, building, or entrance permits.
• Established relationships with officials or staff in Lubbock and surrounding West Texas municipalities and counties.
• Familiarity with handling title, boundary, or construction-related claims.
• Background in energy, land, or infrastructure-related real estate, such as land management or oil and gas experience.

Skills & tools

• Proficient in real estate development processes and regulations.
• Strong negotiation and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively.
• Knowledge of local government structures and processes.
• Familiarity with utility coordination and permitting processes.

Practical notes

• This position is based in Waco, Texas, requiring regular local travel and occasional travel throughout Texas for site visits, public meetings, and negotiations with landowners.
• The role offers a competitive base salary along with discretionary bonuses.
• Employees enjoy flexible time off, company-paid holidays, sick leave, health benefits, a 401(k) contribution, and generous parental leave.

Join Galaxy and contribute to our mission of shaping the future of digital assets and data center infrastructure. Apply now to be part of a dynamic team that values excellence, transparency, and independent decision-making.