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Data Center Operations Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

Senior Data Center Operations Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

This OCI opportunity is for a Data Center Global Support Engineer responsible for support, escalation, and operational improvement across Data Center Operations. The ideal candidate is highly ...

Data Center Manager

Naperville, IL · On-site

$166K/yr

Data Center Management operations supporting mission-critical infrastructure across the firm's enterprise data center environment. This role is responsible for operational reliability, day-to-day ...

Data Center Management operations supporting mission-critical infrastructure across the firm's enterprise data center environment. This role is responsible for operational reliability, day-to-day ...

Senior Data Center Operations Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

This OCI opportunity is for a Data Center Global Support Engineer responsible for support, escalation, and operational improvement across Data Center Operations. The ideal candidate is highly ...

Senior Data Center Operations Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$109K - $148K/yr

This OCI opportunity is for a Data Center Global Support Engineer responsible for support, escalation, and operational improvement across Data Center Operations. The ideal candidate is highly ...

Data Center Operations Management IC3 - The typical base pay range for this role across the U.S. is USD $84,400 - $168,800 per year. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations ...

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

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Showing results 1-20

Data Center Operations information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$53.6K

$132.5K

$206.2K

How much do data center operations jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for data center operations in Chicago, IL is $132,505.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $96,900.00 and $168,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is 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 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 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 between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and certifications. Entry-level roles may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. The job often requires knowledge of hardware, networking, and monitoring tools.

What are the most commonly searched types of Data Center Operations jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Data Center Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

What job categories do people searching Data Center Operations jobs in Chicago, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Center Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Data Center Operations job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 83% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $132,505 per year, or $63.7 per hour.

Data Center Operations Manager

Rush University Medical Center

Chicago, IL • On-site

$55.75 - $83.07/hr

Full-time

Posted 3 days ago

New


Rush University Medical Center rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 109 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

117th of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description

Location: Chicago, Illinois / Hybrid

Business Unit: Rush Medical Center

Hospital: Rush University Medical Center

Department: IT Infrastructure

Work Type: Full Time (Total FTE between 0. 9 and 1. 0)

Shift: Shift 1

Work Schedule: 8 Hr (8:00:00 AM - 5:00:00 PM)

Rush offers exceptional rewards and benefits learn more at our Rush benefits page (https://www.rush.edu/rush-careers/employee-benefits).

Pay Range: $55.75 - $83.07 per hour
Rush salaries are determined by many factors including, but not limited to, education, job-related experience and skills, as well as internal equity and industry specific market data. The pay range for each role reflects Rush’s anticipated wage or salary reasonably expected to be offered for the position. Offers may vary depending on the circumstances of each case.

Summary:

The Data Center Operations Manager is a key technology leader responsible for the reliable, secure, and efficient operation of Rush’s data center environments. This role leads a team of data center engineers and oversees infrastructure activities, ensuring work is completed accurately and in accordance with established procedures, change management practices, and industry best practices.

This is an opportunity for an experienced data center professional who enjoys developing people, solving complex operational challenges, and driving continuous improvement. The manager will oversee the installation, relocation, repair, and removal of server, network, and storage hardware; manage data center capacity and assets; oversee copper and fiber connectivity; and ensure infrastructure changes are accurately documented.

Working closely with Infrastructure Engineering, IT teams, and third-party partners, the Data Center Operations Manager will help maintain a reliable, organized, and scalable environment that supports Rush’s evolving technology needs. The ideal candidate is a proactive, collaborative leader with strong data center operations experience, knowledge of IT infrastructure and networking, and the ability to balance technical priorities with team development and operational excellence.

If you are passionate about data center operations and enjoy leading technical teams, this is an opportunity to make an impact supporting the technology that enables patient care, research, education, and innovation across Rush.

Responsibilities:

  • Lead and mentor a team of Data Center engineers, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous learning.
  • Adheres to a continuous improvement methodology for systems and services under their span of control.

Manage, lead and support a team that is responsible for the following:

  • Installation, relocation and removal of Network, Server and Storage hardware to manufacturer standards and industry best practice.
  • Repair of hardware to major component level (e.g. hard disk, NIC card, memory, physical servers, network hardware, etc.) as requested, across a broad range of vendor equipment.
  • Cross connects, investigating and removal of any connectivity withing the Data Center space.
  • Execution of all work to Data Center work process & procedure.
  • Build, review and update all Data Center standard operating procedures, SOP.
  • Manage the goods in/out process for your dedicated storage facility and keep full records as directed for all incoming/outgoing assets and a full availability list of all items in storage.
  • Receipt of damaged/failed hardware internally and replacement through Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) process
  • Carry out monthly audits of items in store and produce a report of all anomalies
  • Manage asset record updates, tracking and placing assets as to their location and status (deployed, ceased etc.).
  • Ensure that all records are updated following any installations, moves or changes
  • Carry out daily housekeeping checks of the data halls and record their findings
  • Control Data Center stocks (copper/fiber patch leads, patch panels, connectors etc.) and report appropriately.

Required Job Qualifications:

  • Bachelor's degree with a minimum of 5 years relevant experience required.
  • 4+ years’ experience Managing Data Center environments
  • Local, onsite presence.
  • Effective written and verbal communication at all levels
  • Experience of hardware manufacturer installation standards and knowledge of copper and fiber cabling installations and standards, with preference given to the following qualifications.
  • Basic network knowledge and good experience of a broad range of IT hardware; HP, Dell, Ciena, Cisco, and Arista.

Preferred Job Qualifications:

  • Pro-active and flexible with ability to work either as part of a team or as an individual
  • Experience of working in an ITIL controlled environment with knowledge of Change Control, Incident Management & Problem Management processes.
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Good experience using Microsoft Office and CRM databases
  • Ability to prioritize effectively
  • Ability to manage 3rd party contract staff/companies working within the DC
  • Understanding of IP networks
  • Excellent time management skills
  • Healthcare Environment Experience

Rush is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, and other legally protected characteristics.


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