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Data Center Operations Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... data center operation professionals with varying skills across different locations Developing ...

You'll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists ... data center operation professionals with varying skills across different locations Developing ...

Data Center Operations Advisor

$170K/yr

Mindlance is seeking a Data Center Operations Advisor to support their operations. The role involves advising on data center operations and may require occasional travel for site visits or meetings.

New

Data Center Operations Manager

Council Bluffs, IA · On-site

$155K/yr

... organized customer service specialist, who takes pride in seeing things run smoothly and ... As a Hardware Operations Manager at Google, you will lead Data Center Technicians managing the ...

... gender The Center Operations Specialist position is responsible for executing the day-to-day ... Provide data for financial, operational and statistical reports as requested. Provide ad hoc ...

... gender The Center Operations Specialist position is responsible for executing the day-to-day ... Provide data for financial, operational and statistical reports as requested. Provide ad hoc ...

New

... gender The Center Operations Specialist position is responsible for executing the day-to-day ... Provide data for financial, operational and statistical reports as requested. Provide ad hoc ...

... gender The Center Operations Specialist position is responsible for executing the day-to-day ... Provide data for financial, operational and statistical reports as requested. Provide ad hoc ...

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Data Center Operations Specialist information

See salary details

$30.5K

$68.4K

$111K

How much do data center operations specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for data center operations specialist in the United States is $68,426.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $48,000.00 and $81,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What skills are needed to become a data center operation specialist?

A data center operations specialist needs strong technical skills in network infrastructure, server hardware, and systems administration. Knowledge of monitoring tools, troubleshooting, and safety protocols is essential, along with good problem-solving and communication abilities. Certifications such as CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA can enhance job prospects.

What are some typical challenges faced by Data Center Operations Specialists, and how can they prepare for them?

Data Center Operations Specialists often encounter challenges such as maintaining uptime during hardware failures, managing rapid changes in technology, and responding to unexpected incidents like power outages or security threats. Preparation involves developing strong troubleshooting skills, staying updated on industry best practices, and being proactive in monitoring systems for potential issues. Effective communication and collaboration with IT, facilities, and security teams are also crucial to resolving problems quickly and minimizing downtime.

What is the difference between Data Center Operations Specialist vs Network Operations Technician?

AspectData Center Operations SpecialistNetwork Operations Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Cisco CCNACompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentData centers, server roomsNetwork operation centers, data centers
Primary ResponsibilitiesManaging data center hardware, ensuring uptimeMonitoring network performance, troubleshooting connectivity issues
Industry UsageIT, cloud services, data hostingTelecommunications, IT networks

The Data Center Operations Specialist focuses on maintaining and managing data center hardware and infrastructure, ensuring optimal performance and uptime. In contrast, the Network Operations Technician primarily monitors and troubleshoots network connectivity and performance issues. While both roles require technical certifications and work within similar environments, their core responsibilities differ, with the specialist centered on data center hardware and the technician on network systems.

How much do data center operators make?

Data center operators typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher salaries, especially in large or high-demand facilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Data Center Operations Specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Data Center Operations Specialist, you need strong knowledge of hardware, networking, and systems administration, usually supported by relevant IT certifications such as CompTIA Server+, Cisco CCNA, or Microsoft certifications. Proficiency with data center infrastructure management (DCIM) tools, network monitoring systems, and ticketing platforms is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team are essential soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the smooth and secure operation of data center environments, minimizing downtime and maintaining critical services.

What does a data operations specialist do?

A data operations specialist manages and maintains data systems, ensuring data accuracy, security, and availability. They often work with database management tools, perform data validation, and support data integration processes to facilitate efficient data flow within an organization.

What are Data Center Operations Specialists?

Data Center Operations Specialists are IT professionals responsible for maintaining the day-to-day operations of data centers. Their duties include monitoring server performance, ensuring network uptime, managing hardware and software installations, and responding to system alerts or outages. They also perform routine inspections, troubleshoot technical issues, and enforce data center security protocols. These specialists play a crucial role in ensuring the reliability, efficiency, and security of an organization's IT infrastructure.

Who are the big 5 in data centers?

The 'Big 5' in data centers typically refer to the five largest cloud service providers: Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud Platform, Alibaba Cloud, and IBM Cloud. These companies dominate the industry in terms of infrastructure, market share, and global data center presence, and working as a Data Center Operations Specialist often involves managing hardware, network systems, and ensuring uptime within these large-scale environments.
More about Data Center Operations Specialist jobs
Who are the top companies hiring for Data Center Operations Specialist jobs? The top employers for Data Center Operations Specialist jobs are:
What states have the most Data Center Operations Specialist jobs? States with the most job openings for Data Center Operations Specialist jobs include:
Infographic showing various Data Center Operations Specialist job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 60% Full Time, 37% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $68,426 per year, or $32.9 per hour.
Manager Data Center Operations

Manager Data Center Operations

Digital Realty

San Francisco, CA • On-site

$189K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago


Digital Realty rating

9.3

Company rating: 9.3 out of 10

Based on 5 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 204 rated it services


Job description

Job Description
Manager Data Center Operations
Your role
The Manager Data Center Operationsis responsible for overseeing the execution of local data center operations at one or more data center properties. Data center operations include, but are not limited to:
  • Engineering operations and core infrastructure maintenance
  • Data center construction management, commissioning and start-up
  • Delivery of data center services including colocation, connectivity, raised floor services and deployment
  • Installation and management of all cable and network infrastructure supporting facility and customer connectivity
  • Technical event management including post-event root cause analysis and infrastructure repair

What you'll do
  • Execute all aspects of data center operations including the operation, maintenance and repair of all mission critical equipment and systems supporting a 24x7 data center operation to achieve 100% uptime and 100% compliance with all customer SLAs.
  • Supervises all construction activity and installations, in coordination with internal and external construction resources, to ensure system design, installation and testing adhere to operational standards.
  • Witness testing of all equipment during commissioning and validate sequence of operations and receipt of all operational documentation.
  • Manages provisioning of data center services including colocation, connectivity, raised floor services, deployment and any additional services to be delivered to data center customers.
  • Manages all local customer installations, in coordination with Sales Engineering, Design & Construction and Colocation Operations to coordinate customer move-ins and turn-ups, including deployments, power circuit installations and connectivity requirements.
  • Oversees local installation, maintenance and repair of all network infrastructure supporting all Digital Realty and customer connectivity in coordination with internal IT and network personnel.
  • Supervise local engineering team to ensure adherence to standard operating procedures, sequence of operations and maintenance standards to guarantee execution of Digital Realty's periodic maintenance program and maintenance calendar.
  • Develop, implement and audit local standard operating procedures, sequence of operations and maintenance standards to be in compliance with Digital Realty's standards and industry best practices.
  • Supervise local change management processes including the review and approval of all Method of Procedures (MOPs) for maintenance and one-time/emergency repair events in coordination with onsite personnel, contractors and customers.
  • Manage all maintenance and repair contracts to ensure compliance with maintenance standards and operational requirements. Confirm all vendors are qualified and adhere to Digital Realty's performance standards and scopes of work.
  • Responsible for timely execution of data center services such as remote hands, customer installations and service requests.
  • Supervise security personnel and manage security systems including the adherence to security policies and compliance programs (as required by the Property Manager)
  • Act as primary technical and operational contact for data center customers - both as the technical lead and local point of escalation during emergency events and day to day operations. Develop knowledge of customer's core business and the business function of the customer's local datacenter operation.
  • Manage technical and operational incidents at the property, including the implementation of emergency response procedures, resource coordination, customer communication, root-cause analysis and post event remediation.
  • Identify trends and analyze risks to articulate implications and impact to data center operations. Track operational metrics and other data to provide Senior Management oversight and control for both snapshot data and long-term trend analysis.
  • Identify process based improvements that generate operational and financial efficiencies including the development and presentation of the business case.
  • Support Property Manager with the management of expenses and assist all budgeting, forecasting and reporting requirements by providing capital and expense requirements and justifications.
  • Support pre-sales process, including, but not limited to, conducting sales tours and reviewing lease proposals and lease agreements to confirm compliance with Digital Realty standards and local requirements.
  • Support various accreditation initiatives, including, but not limited to, SSAE16, SOC2, ISO 27001, etc. as may be required by Digital Realty.
  • Maintain compliance with local health & safety (i.e. OSHA) standards and national electrical and building codes.

What you'll need
  • 10 years related facility management experience in data center operations (or related electrical or mechanical engineering field) with minimum of 5 years' experience managing or leading data center operations teams in a large scale mission critical environment. Bachelor's degree in electrical or mechanical engineering preferred.
  • Solid and proven experience in the construction, commissioning, acceptance and operation of mission critical systems, including state-of-the-art electrical distribution systems, static and rotary UPS, emergency standby generation, fire alarm/suppression and monitoring systems
  • Extensive knowledge of structured cabling systems, networking and connectivity standards, and hardware installation requirements.
  • Proficient experience in colocation operations, including the installation and deployment of cage, rack and cable infrastructure, as well as, power circuit installation and power monitoring.
  • Experience working with and deploying telecom and network providers, specifically in Meet Me Room and POP room environments
  • Experience managing a change control environment
  • Strong quantitative and qualitative reasoning skills, with demonstrated ability to determine event root causes, performance shortfalls and required corrective actions.
  • Knowledge of industry data center standards, policies & methodologies
  • Knowledge of performance management & critical awareness methods and implementation standards
  • Strong interpersonal, presentation and communication skills
  • Strong organizational skills and detail oriented
  • Experience managing own budget and analyzing expenses
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel and Outlook and familiarity with Microsoft Project, Visio or AutoCad
  • Familiarity with Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS), Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM), and power metering system

A bit about us
Digital Realty brings companies and data together by delivering the full spectrum of data center, colocation and interconnection solutions. PlatformDIGITAL®, the company's global data center platform, provides customers with a secure data meeting place and a proven Pervasive Datacenter Architecture (PDx®) solution methodology for powering innovation and efficiently managing Data Gravity challenges. Digital Realty gives its customers access to the connected data communities that matter to them with a global data center footprint of 300+ facilities in 50+ metros across 25+ countries on six continents.
To learn more about Digital Realty, please visit digitalrealty.com or follow us on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Operations
Our Operations team keeps our customers' infrastructure running safely and securely. We get plenty of opportunities to take on a variety of tasks and develop our technical skills. From overseeing electrical power to cooling and fire suppression systems, our team plays a vital role in making sure everything in our data centers operates as it should.
What we can offer you
Our rapidly evolving business sector offers the opportunity to be part of a courageous and passionate team who work together to understand and meet the changing needs of our global customers.
Join us and you'll be part of a supportive and inclusive environment where you can bring your whole self to work. As part of our team, you'll get to work with people from different business areas, challenge the way we do things and put your ideas into action. We'll also give you plenty of development opportunities so you can build a rewarding and successful career with us.
Apply today, take charge of your career and grow your talents with us.
Health and Safety
Safety isn't just a priority here at Digital; it's critical to everything we do. Safeguarding lives, protecting assets, and securing data aren't just ideals - they're essential pillars of our commitment to excellence for our people, our partners and our customers. We have a culture of care where every member of Team Digital embraces a relentless pursuit of working safely across Digital Realty. Together we are Safely Powering Progress.
Our Compensation Philosophy
Digital Realty offers its employees a highly competitive compensation package, excellent benefits, and an environment that recognizes and rewards your contributions. Central to our compensation philosophy is rewarding our employees for achieving the values and objectives aligned to the company's overall goals and values.
Our published pay ranges reflect the minimum and maximum target for new hire pay for the full-time position determined by role, level, and geographical location. Individual pay is based on additional factors including but not limited to job-related skills, experience, and relevant education and/or training. Moreover, an employee's total compensation package varies by role and may include salary, cash bonus or commissions, and equity awards not quantified below.
Compensation range: $150,000 to $165,000 annually. This compensation range represents the Company's good faith belief as to what it will pay as a base salary for this position at the time of this posting.
Benefits: For this role, Benefits include medical, dental, vision, life and AD&D insurance, 401k match, disability benefits, wellness and education benefits, employee stock purchase plan, paid time off, holidays, and more.