1

Data Center Operations Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Analyze data to identify trends and recommend operational improvements. Data Center Assessments: * Conduct regular evaluations across all data center sites to identify deficiencies in power, space ...

Analyze data to identify trends and recommend operational improvements. Data Center Assessments: * Conduct regular evaluations across all data center sites to identify deficiencies in power, space ...

Data Center Manager (Night Shift)

Manassas, VA · On-site

$167K/yr

Manage a team that maintains cloud infrastructure for global data center operations! AWS is looking for technology managers with experience in people management, strong technical understanding and ...

Data Center Manager, DCC Communities

Manassas, VA · On-site

$167K/yr

Manage a team that maintains cloud infrastructure for global data center operations! AWS is looking for technology managers with experience in people management, strong technical understanding and ...

Data Center Manager, DCC Communities

Manassas, VA · On-site

$167K/yr

Manage a team that maintains cloud infrastructure for global data center operations. AWS is looking for technology managers with experience in people management, strong technical understanding and ...

Data Center Manager, DCC Communities

Manassas, VA · On-site

$167K/yr

Manage a team that maintains cloud infrastructure for global data center operations. AWS is looking for technology managers with experience in people management, strong technical understanding and ...

The Data Center Manager is responsible for the safe, reliable, and efficient operation of the Vint Hill data center, providing onsite leadership for daily operations across technical services ...

New

... data center operations and future scalability. • Lead technical decision-making across virtualization platforms, storage solutions, networking architectures, backup strategies, and disaster ...

Data Center Technician

Dulles, VA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

... Operations Monitor and maintain data center infrastructure including power, cooling, and environmental systems Perform routine maintenance on servers, storage systems, and networking equipment ...

Data Center Technician

Richmond, VA · On-site

$22 - $35/hr

... Operations Monitor and maintain data center infrastructure including power, cooling, and environmental systems Perform routine maintenance on servers, storage systems, and networking equipment ...

Data Center Architect

Hampton, VA · On-site

$140K - $160K/yr

... data center operations and future scalability. • Lead technical decision-making across virtualization platforms, storage solutions, networking architectures, backup strategies, and disaster ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Data Center Operations information

See Virginia salary details

$51.6K

$127.4K

$198.3K

How much do data center operations jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for data center operations in Virginia is $127,423.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $93,200.00 and $162,100.00 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 are the most commonly searched types of Data Center Operations jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Data Center Operations jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Data Center Operations jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Data Center Operations job openings:
Infographic showing various Data Center Operations job openings in Virginia as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 16% Contract. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $127,423 per year, or $61.3 per hour.
Engineer IV - Critical Facilities (Data Center Operations)

Engineer IV - Critical Facilities (Data Center Operations)

Verisign

Dulles, VA

$108K - $147K/yr

Other

Posted 27 days ago


Job description

We are seeking an Engineer IV - Critical Facilities (Data Center Operations) to serve as a technical resource and leader within the Global Data Center Operations Team. This onsite role at our Ashburn Data Center will play a crucial role in the day-to-day operations & capacity planning of mission critical systems. 

The ideal candidate will have technical and program management expertise in the maintenance and operation of electrical, mechanical, and fire life safety data center systems as well as applicable base building support systems.  You will support the Sr. Manager of Data Center Operations as a technical lead.  While this is an individual contributor role, you must be able to direct and inspire highly skilled engineers, deliver on project timelines and be the technical point of contact for on-call escalations.  Clear and concise written and verbal communication skills along with experience developing Standard Operating Procedures, Emergency Operating Procedures and Method of Procedures utilizing technical writing standards are a must.

Mechanical responsibilities include chilled water systems and components, HVAC systems such as roof top units, CRAC/CRAH units, and humidification systems.  Electrical responsibilities will include electrical/critical power distribution from the Utility/Generator main switchgear through the UPS, STS, and PDU system to the power on the data center floor.  Fire Life Safety responsibilities will include wet sprinkler systems, pre-action sprinkler systems, clean agent fire suppression systems and fire alarm systems as well as their associated detection devices.

The candidate will:

  • operate independently with limited direct management
  • act as an escalation point for all facilities-related issues within the data center, escalating to the Sr. Manager of Data Center Operations as needed
  • ensure all electrical, mechanical, fire/life safety equipment supporting the data centers are operating at peak efficiency and are highly available
  • identify Single Points of Failures (SPoF) and End of Life (EOL) equipment within existing design/architecture and drive prioritization/remediation efforts within the facility
  • drive preventative maintenance best practices and oversight using Method of Procedures (MOP) and Emergency Operating Procedures (EOP) for the facility
  • identify root cause of system failures and present those findings to Senior Leadership
  • oversee multi-year capacity/growth critical facilities projects within the facility and build business cases to support the projects
  • be open to a continuous improvement culture

The ideal candidate will have:

  • a deep understanding of chiller, chilled water and air handler technologies and electrical switchgear, generators, load banks, UPS, STS, PDU, RPP, and batteries
  • 7+ years' relevant experience operating data centers in a technical lead individual contributor role
  • a Mechanical, Electrical, or other related Engineering degree or equivalent job experience
  • strong verbal and written communication skills
  • direct experience with design, engineering, commissioning, and operations of data center electrical, mechanical, and fire/life safety equipment
  • demonstrated expertise of the data center tier rating systems and design risk factors for resiliency and availability
  • experience reviewing technical drawings to ensure installations and designs conform to industry best practices and standards
  • experience in operations of large-scale data center environments
  • existing data center service vendor relationships
  • experience with Electrical Power Management Systems (EPMS) and Building Management Software (BMS)
  • relevant industry certifications (NFPA, ATS, ATO, AOS, DCDC, etc)

This job is on-site and based in our Ashburn, Virginia area location. This is a first shift, Monday-Friday position. 

The annualized pay range is $108,900 - $147,300. 

The anticipated annual base salary range for these positions is noted above, however, base pay offered may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, experience. Verisign offers a discretionary bonus which is based on individual and company performance, and certain roles may be eligible for discretionary stock awards.