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$28

How much do apprentice critical operations technician jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average hourly pay for apprentice critical operations technician in the United States is $19.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.35 and $21.15 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some typical challenges faced by an Apprentice Critical Operations Technician during their initial months on the job?

In the early stages, Apprentice Critical Operations Technicians often encounter challenges such as adapting to the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of data centers or mission-critical facilities. They must quickly learn to follow strict protocols, respond effectively to alarms or system failures, and understand complex mechanical and electrical systems. Building familiarity with safety procedures, documentation standards, and collaborative communication with engineers and senior technicians is essential. Support and on-the-job training are typically provided to help apprentices overcome these challenges and build confidence in their technical and problem-solving abilities.

What does a critical operations technician do?

A critical operations technician is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and troubleshooting essential systems and equipment in critical infrastructure environments such as power plants, data centers, or manufacturing facilities. They ensure operational safety, perform routine inspections, and respond to system alarms, often working with specialized tools and following safety protocols. This role requires technical skills, attention to detail, and sometimes certifications related to safety and equipment operation.

What are Apprentice Critical Operations Technicians?

Apprentice Critical Operations Technicians are entry-level professionals who assist in monitoring, maintaining, and supporting the operational systems of facilities such as data centers, power plants, or other mission-critical environments. They work under the supervision of experienced technicians to ensure that equipment operates efficiently and safely. Their responsibilities often include conducting routine inspections, responding to alarms, and performing basic maintenance tasks as they learn specialized procedures. This role is designed to provide hands-on training and experience, preparing apprentices for more advanced positions in critical operations.

What is the difference between Apprentice Critical Operations Technician vs Critical Operations Technician?

AspectApprentice Critical Operations TechnicianCritical Operations Technician
CertificationsOn-the-job training, possibly some technical certificationsAdvanced technical certifications or licenses often required
Work EnvironmentTraining environment, supervised tasksOperational environment, independent troubleshooting
Job ResponsibilitiesAssisting with tasks, learning proceduresPerforming maintenance, troubleshooting, and system operations

The Apprentice Critical Operations Technician is in training, focusing on learning and assisting under supervision, while the Critical Operations Technician is fully qualified, handling complex operations independently. The apprenticeship prepares individuals for full technician roles in critical infrastructure industries.

What is the highest paying apprenticeship job?

Apprentice Critical Operations Technicians can earn higher wages when working in specialized industries such as energy, oil and gas, or aerospace, where technical skills and certifications are valued. Typically, these apprenticeships offer higher pay compared to general trades due to the complexity and safety requirements of the work.

What is the highest paying technician job?

The highest paying technician jobs are often specialized roles such as aerospace, petroleum, or nuclear technicians, with salaries exceeding $80,000 annually. Critical Operations Technicians in industries like energy or manufacturing can also earn high wages, especially with advanced certifications and experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Apprentice Critical Operations Technician, and why are they important?

Apprentice Critical Operations Technicians need a foundational understanding of mechanical, electrical, or HVAC systems, often supported by a high school diploma or technical training. Familiarity with building management systems (BMS), safety protocols, and basic computer skills are typically required, and certifications such as OSHA or EPA Universal can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication help individuals excel in monitoring and responding to facility operations. These skills are essential for maintaining the reliability, efficiency, and safety of critical infrastructure in high-stakes environments like data centers.

Is ICT technician a good career?

An ICT technician, including roles like Apprentice Critical Operations Technician, is a stable career with opportunities in IT support, network management, and system maintenance. It often requires technical skills, certifications, and problem-solving abilities, and can lead to advancement in technology-focused industries.
Infographic showing various Apprentice Critical Operations Technician job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $40,268 per year, or $19.4 per hour.

Critical Operations Technician I

Quality Technology Services, LLC

Cedar Rapids, IA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Who we are:

Our life is a digital life, filled with streams of information flowing ceaselessly. Every click, every swipe, every interaction connects us. But where does all that information go? Enter the world of data centers.

"Data centers are experiencing once-in-a-generation demand growth, driven by cloud adoption and the AI revolution," Jon Gray, President & COO of Blackstone.

In the fast-paced world of data, QTS is dedicated to leading the industry in a thoughtful and intentional way. At QTS, we are Purpose Driven and moving communities forward.

At QTS, we believe that how we deliver our services is equally as important as the service we deliver. Our people play a vital role in our company's culture, innovation and growth, and we are deeply committed to those who affect or are affected by our business. Our people are knowledgeable, resourceful, innovative self-starters, and can accomplish great things when working together. That is why QTS is Powered by People!

Who you are:

Join our dynamic and growing Facilities Operations team as a Critical Operations Technician focusing on maintaining mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and IT equipment within our Data Centers. We are seeking skilled trades professionals with the ability to apply learning, knowledge, skills, and company policies to a wide range of tasks pertaining to electrical and mechanical equipment, preventative maintenance, controls, operating systems, and IT.

This role requires on-site work hours to support a 24X7X365 data center environment and is not eligible for remote and/or hybrid work.

The impact you will have:

The Critical Operations Technician I is responsible for the installation, repair, and maintenance of electrical, mechanical, plumbing/piping equipment, machinery controls, and IT hardware located in the interior and exterior of building.This role monitors facility operations and conducts a routine and ongoing assessment of the building systems, operations, and performance. The role is also responsible for assisting customers on the Data Center floor both in person and via the telephone.

What you will do, other duties may be assigned:

  • Perform preventative maintenance on and monitor mechanical, electrical, HVAC, and IT equipment; recording readings and adjusting where necessary to ensure proper operation of equipment.
  • Install and repair IT, mechanical, and electrical equipment as required; assist other team members with major repairs and maintenance of building and equipment.
  • Provide high level computer hardware and software configuration support. Install suite wall, cage material, ladder rack, fiber tray, cabinets, cabling, and customer equipment based on documentation provided by provisioning documentation and established Data Center Operation procedures.
  • Process work orders for preventative and corrective maintenance on critical, building, and site infrastructure. Consults with supervisor or team lead to order necessary tools and equipment as required to complete all maintenance and perform necessary work.
  • Create and/or update tickets within the established ticketing system to address customer calls, data center facility, network and/or system related alerts.
  • Responds as required to building emergencies and customer requests.
  • Complies with departmental policy for the safe storage, usage, and disposal of hazardous materials.
  • Uses the Change Management Process to get approval for preventative and corrective maintenance. Commences & completes the maintenance along with the necessary documentation using the QTS process and software.

What you will need to be successful:

  • Two or more years of technical or trade training, military training, or workplace equivalency
  • Background in areas of facilities maintenance, electrical, mechanical, HVAC, or IT hardware or cabling
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite

Additional preferred qualifications:

  • One or more years of work experience in data center, commercial, or industrial environment, or equivalent

The perks (and only a few):

  • Medical, dental, vision, life and disability insurance
  • 401(k) retirement plan (with up to 4% match)
  • Paid volunteer days
  • Employee assistance program
  • Tuition assistance, parental leave and military leave assistance;
  • QTS scholarship for dependents

We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, age, disability status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or discrimination claim.

The "Know Your Rights" Poster is included here:

Know Your Rights (English)

Know Your Rights (Spanish)

The pay transparency policy is available here:

Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Poster-Formatted

QTS is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to talentacquisition@qtsdatacenters.com and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information.

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