Contract Data Center Capacity Engineer Jobs in Illinois

Execute installation of critical data center infrastructure, including enterprise-grade servers, storage arrays, network hardware (switches, routers, firewalls), server cabinets, PDUs, and other physical infrastructure components across multiple data center environments.

Perform structured cabling tasks including running, terminating, labeling, testing, and dressing Cat6 and fiber optic cabling (SM/MM) to ensure optimal performance and adherence to industry best practices. Troubleshoot and resolve Layer 1 connectivity issues across copper and fiber mediums.

Conduct component-level diagnostics and replacements on failed hardware, including system boards, CPUs, DIMMs, cache batteries, hard drives, power supplies, and fans. Utilize OEM diagnostic tools and system logs to isolate faults and restore full functionality.

Collaborate with data center engineering teams to design and implement physical infrastructure layouts at multiple data centers that align with power, cooling, and space requirements.

Support ongoing capacity planning efforts to meet scalability needs.

Act as a technical liaison between infrastructure/application teams and data center operations to support incident resolution, break/fix scenarios, and scheduled maintenance. Manage and prioritize incoming service requests and incidents via ServiceNow.

Support and lead infrastructure-related projects, applying risk management and contingency planning to minimize service impact. Participate in emergency response and recovery activities to ensure business continuity. Requires judgment to implement solutions to resolve complex issues.

Controls stock inventory and validate the accuracy of documentation.Receives goods delivered to the Data Center and enters all goods received in the stock inventory system, updates the database, and correlates the items received to ensure order requirements are fulfilled. Uses system tools to maintain accurate inventory records, performs routine audits.Maintains minimum/maximum stock for data center supplies. Requests quotes from vendors to replenish supplies.

Oversee the decommissioning process for retired equipment in accordance with corporate policies and environmental compliance standards. Ensure secure data destruction and proper disposal of assets.

Manage on-site activities of third-party vendors for equipment installations, maintenance, and decommissions. Ensure all work complies with data center policies, timelines, and safety protocols.

Develop, document, and enforce standardized operating procedures (SOPs) and data center best practices across all locations. Collaborate with physical security teams to ensure facilities are secure and compliant with organizational and regulatory standards.

Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff, contributing to skill development and knowledge transfer within the team.

Knowledge of data center architecture, power and cooling distribution, mechanical systems, physical security, racks, servers, storage devices, network, and cabling.

Experience with Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM).

Experience with data center capacity and trend analysis reporting.

Experience with advanced troubleshooting techniques in a Data Center environment

Strong project management skills.

Operational understanding of database terms and functionality.

Operational experience with Networking terms and functions including LAN and WAN.

Demonstrated ability to work with a limited amount of supervision and work with internal and external customers.

Demonstrated ability for analytical and logical thinking. Ability to organize, troubleshoot efficiently and effectively.

Detail oriented, creative and self-motivated.

Ability to work on multiple in-process tasks simultaneously, set appropriate priorities and accomplish assignments in a thorough and timely fashion.

Ability to comprehend and interpret instructions, short correspondence, and memos and ask clarifying questions to ensure understanding.

Exposed to data center environments.

Travel between multiple data centers.

Operates all equipment necessary to perform the job.