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Data Center Operations Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Data Center Operations Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$197K/yr

... operations and cloud development, dedicated to building innovative, bleeding-edge solutions for ... Own all aspects of onsite and offsite data center sites for multiple eng teams (Software, Test, POC ...

Data Center Operations Manager

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$197K/yr

... operations and cloud development, dedicated to building innovative, bleeding-edge solutions for ... Own all aspects of onsite and offsite data center sites for multiple eng teams (Software, Test, POC ...

The Data Center Operations (DCO) team is responsible for the upkeep and maintenance of DCO-managed sites, their facility components, physical security, and other data center services related to these ...

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Data Center Operations information

See California salary details

$51.3K

$126.8K

$197.4K

How much do data center operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for data center operations in California is $126,843.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,800.00 and $161,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectData Center OperationsData Center Technician
Primary FocusOverseeing overall data center functions, including infrastructure management, monitoring, and maintenance coordination.Performing hands-on hardware installation, troubleshooting, and repairs within the data center.
CertificationsOften requires certifications like CompTIA Data Center or Cisco CCNA.Typically requires certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+.
Work EnvironmentOffice-based with some on-site presence; involves coordination and supervision.Primarily on-site, working directly with hardware and equipment.
Employer UsageUsed by data center managers, operations teams, and facilities management.Commonly searched by technicians and entry-level hardware staff.

In summary, Data Center Operations involves managing and coordinating data center functions, while Data Center Technicians focus on hands-on hardware tasks. Both roles are essential but differ in scope and responsibilities.

How much do data center operators make?

Data center operators typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in high-demand environments with shift work or technical responsibilities.

What is a data center operations job?

A data center operations job involves managing and maintaining the infrastructure of data centers, including servers, networking equipment, and power systems. Responsibilities often include monitoring system performance, troubleshooting issues, and ensuring security and uptime, with skills in hardware, software, and network management. Certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA can be beneficial for this role.

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

To thrive in Data Center Operations, you need a solid understanding of IT infrastructure, hardware maintenance, network management, and often a relevant degree or technical certification such as CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA. Familiarity with monitoring tools, ticketing systems, and physical security protocols is typically required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help professionals excel in this environment. These skills are essential for maintaining uptime, ensuring data security, and responding quickly to technical issues in a mission-critical setting.

What are some typical challenges faced in a Data Center Operations role and how can they be managed effectively?

Professionals in Data Center Operations often encounter challenges such as maintaining uptime during hardware failures, managing large-scale equipment upgrades, and ensuring strict adherence to security protocols. These challenges require strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently under pressure. Effective communication and collaboration with IT, facilities, and security teams are essential to quickly address incidents and prevent downtime. Staying current with best practices and participating in regular training can also help manage these challenges more effectively.

What are Data Center Operations?

Data Center Operations refers to the collective processes and activities that ensure data centers run efficiently, securely, and reliably. These operations include managing servers, networking equipment, cooling and power systems, monitoring performance, and implementing security protocols. Professionals in this field are responsible for maintaining uptime, troubleshooting hardware or software issues, and supporting the technological infrastructure that businesses rely on for data storage and processing.

What is the role of a data center operator?

A data center operator is responsible for monitoring, maintaining, and managing the physical and technical infrastructure of a data center, including servers, networking equipment, and power systems. They ensure optimal operation, troubleshoot issues, and follow safety and security protocols, often using tools like monitoring software and adhering to industry standards. Strong technical skills and certifications such as CompTIA Server+ or Cisco are beneficial for this role.

What jobs pay 500,000 a year in the US?

In data center operations, high-paying roles such as data center directors, senior infrastructure managers, or chief technology officers can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with extensive experience, certifications, and leadership responsibilities. These positions often require advanced technical skills, strategic planning, and management expertise, and may include bonuses or stock options that contribute to total compensation.
What cities in California are hiring for Data Center Operations jobs? Cities in California with the most Data Center Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Center Operations job openings in California as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $126,843 per year, or $61 per hour.
SkillBridge Data Center Operations Technician

SkillBridge Data Center Operations Technician

CoreSite

Los Angeles, CA

Other

Posted 11 days ago


Job description

Description

About Coresite:

At CoreSite, we empower a more connected future through high-performance data centers and interconnection solutions. Recognized as a trusted partner in digital transformation, our strategically located facilities and innovative services enable businesses to connect, collaborate, and grow in an ever-evolving technological landscape.  Our culture is defined by operational excellence and a relentless drive for innovation. We foster a collaborative environment where every team member is valued, wins are celebrated as a team, and ownership is part of our DNA. At CoreSite, we’re not just building state-of-the-art infrastructure—we’re creating a community of forward-thinkers committed to solving complex challenges and delivering exceptional customer experiences.  At CoreSite not only are we Committed to Excellence, but we also Build Connections, Own It, Do the Right Thing, Have Fun, and Win as a Team. Join us and be part of a team that is shaping the future of digital infrastructure while nurturing your professional growth and success.

SkillBridge Data Center Technician Role:

The SkillBridge Data Center Technician assists in the operational integrity, security, and regulatory compliance of the data center. The technician will gain working knowledge of data center operations including telecommunications, mechanical, electrical, and fire life safety systems as well as data center operating procedures.

The technician will be responsible for day-to-day operations of the data center including facilities and telecommunication infrastructure.

The responsibilities are wide ranging and multi-disciplinary.

Mechanical responsibilities will include working on chilled water systems and components, HVAC systems such as roof top units, CRAC/CRAH units, humidification systems, and central plant operations. Electrical responsibilities will include working on electrical/critical power distribution from the Utility/Generator main switchgear through the UPS systems out to the customer load including power circuit installations.

Fire Life Safety responsibilities will include monitoring wet sprinkler systems and pre-action sprinkler systems as well as their associated detection devices. Telecommunications responsibilities will include cross connect installations, cabling infrastructure management, advanced remote hands support, and customer cage and cabinet build outs.

Other responsibilities will include customer infrastructure build-outs (cage builds, overhead installations, rack and stack), cable termination and testing, maintenance work, monitoring and responding to mechanical, electrical, fire protection, telecom, and security systems. These systems include, transformers, PLC’s, generators, switchgear, UPS systems, STS’, ATS’ PDU’s, chilled water systems, CRAC/CRAH, wet sprinkler systems and pre-action sprinkler, network equipment, transmission media, cabling infrastructure, security hardware, and CCTV.

Duties:

Operate, monitor, maintain, and respond to abnormal conditions in facilities systems. Areas include: Electrical, Mechanical, Communications, Building Monitoring and Control.  Completion of CoreSite’s Data Center Operations Qualification Program. Ensure data center operates at maximum operational efficiency, including analyzing existing operating conditions, recommending new technologies, and improving overall efficiency and cost reduction as per Coresite guidelines.

Manage systems to avoid unplanned, customer-impacting outages.

Follow direction from data center management regarding the data floor and back of house mechanical loading capacity thereby ensuring that the cooling system is operating at its highest efficiency.

Work with contractors and consultants for all system expansions, corrections and upgrades.

Work with the senior technicians to track and complete an aggressive preventive and predicative maintenance schedule.

Assist with the database management of maintenance discrepancies and work with to resolve site issues based on agreed upon priorities.

Trouble ticket and remote hands management.

Fiber and Copper cabling terminations.

Circuit path creation and verification.

Coordinate and oversee power installations and upgrades.

Complete work orders.

Infrastructure projects including cage and cabinet build-outs, overhead installations, and rack and stack.

Navigate and utilize a CMMS system. Use developed procedures to solve problems.

Assist in asset and consumable inventory management. Tracking and trending operational characteristics.

Tracking and proper labeling of all equipment per established procedures. Provide day-to-day exceptional customer service and support. Incident escalation, response, and follow-up report writing.  Maintain and complete regular facility and security tours documenting and responding to found issues. Manage building service requests through resolution.

Perform and complete work orders and customer service tickets in a timely manner.  

Provide applied mechanical and integrated control expertise for the entire data center.  

Serve in a technical writing capacity in regard to the derivation of procedures for preventative or corrective maintenance activities. Adhere to and promote CoreSite’s Principles of Operational Excellence, culture, and Core Values. 

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Interaction with Others -This position is required to interact with CoreSite personnel, vendors, partners, contractors and clients.

Work Attributes:

Knowledge-Firm and proven understanding of the electrical and mechanical systems used in a data center environment.

Firm and proven understanding of fiber optics / cabling infrastructure and industry best practices.

Firm and proven understanding of Proficient knowledge of NEC, NFPA 70E, NFPA 72, NFPA 25, and compliance issues as well as building codes in regard to fire life safety  Proficient knowledge in industrial safety best practices (i.e. lockout/tag out, arc flash protection, OSHA and state regulations)

Proficient and experienced with data trending / tracking and analysis and ability to rapidly learn and use PC based, integrated critical monitoring systems.

Skills:

Minimum of 2 years experience installing, maintaining, and/or troubleshooting large commercial and industrial systems including: Chilled Water Systems, Large Centrifugal Chillers, Cooling Towers, Heat Exchangers, Water Treatment Systems, VFD’s and Pumps, HVAC equipment, CRAC/CRAH’s, Humidification Systems, BMS and PLC Controls, Emergency Standby Diesel Generator Systems, Fuel/Oil systems, 480/277 and 208/120 electrical generation and distribution, Static UPS Systems, Double Interlock Pre-Action Systems, Communications cabling, Cabling infrastructure, Network infrastructure and hardware Experience laying out, pulling, dressing, and terminating fiber and copper communications cabling.

Experience diagnosing and repairing IT hardware, servers, network switches, structured cabling. Proven leadership skills Excellent communication skills, both written and oral Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

Abilities:

Ability to communicate effectively with customers and internal staff.

Ability to coordinate, supervise and communicate with contractors who perform maintenance or upgrade work on these systems.  Ability to learn quickly and address issues as they arise during normal working hours or after hours. Ability to operate in and promote a rigorous process-driven team environment Ability to logically analyze and solve problems.

Ability to effectively multi-task multiple projects Operate Hand and Machine Tools (hammer, drill, saw, etc.) Operate electrical tools such as a multi-meter or infrared camera.

Required Education/Experience: 

  • Must be an active-duty US Military personnel transitioning out of the military 
  • High school diploma or general education degree (GED) 2-5 years of related experience.