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Data Center Operator Jobs in Maryland (NOW HIRING)

KBR

Data Center Engineer

Lanham, MD

$129K - $194K/yr

Data Center Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... hosting one or more Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, Solaris, UNIX, and/or AIX systems

KBR, Inc.

Data Center Engineer

Lanham, MD · On-site

$129K - $194K/yr

Data Center Engineer Belong. Connect. Grow. with KBR! KBR's National Security Solutions team ... hosting one or more Operating Systems: Windows, Linux, Solaris, UNIX, and/or AIX systems

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Showing results 1-20

All JobsData Center Operator JobsData Center Operator Jobs in Maryland

Data Center Operator information

See Maryland salary details

$39.4K

$146.9K

$240.8K

How much do data center operator jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for data center operator in Maryland is $146,950.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $91,300.00 and $201,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How to become a data center operator?

To become a data center operator, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical skills related to electrical systems, networking, or IT. Relevant certifications such as CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA can improve job prospects. On-the-job training is common, and strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail are essential for maintaining data center operations.

What qualifications do I need to work as a data center operator?

A data center operator typically needs a high school diploma or equivalent, along with technical knowledge of computer hardware, networking, and power systems. Relevant certifications such as CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA can enhance job prospects, and hands-on experience with data center equipment is often preferred. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment are also important.

What is a data center operator?

Data Center Operators are IT professionals responsible for the day-to-day operations, monitoring, and maintenance of data centers. They ensure that servers, networking equipment, and other critical infrastructure run smoothly and securely. Their duties include handling system backups, responding to hardware and software issues, and performing regular inspections to prevent downtime. Data Center Operators also assist with equipment installations and upgrades, and they often work in shifts to provide 24/7 coverage for data center facilities.

Are data center operator jobs high paying?

Data center operator jobs typically offer moderate to high wages depending on experience, certifications, and location. Entry-level positions may pay around the national average, while experienced operators with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries. Compensation often includes benefits such as health insurance and overtime pay due to shift work.

What are some common challenges data center operators face during their shifts, and how can they effectively manage them?

Data Center Operators often encounter challenges such as maintaining uptime during unexpected hardware failures, managing environmental controls (like temperature and humidity), and responding quickly to system alerts. To manage these effectively, operators rely on well-documented protocols, regular training, and close collaboration with IT and facilities teams. Proactive monitoring, clear communication, and staying updated on new technologies also help minimize downtime and ensure smooth operations.

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 positions may start lower, while experienced operators with specialized skills can earn higher wages, especially in regions with a high cost of living or in large data centers.

What is the difference between Data Center Operator vs Network Technician?

AspectData Center OperatorNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Cisco CCNA (sometimes)CompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA
Work EnvironmentData centers, server roomsNetworking labs, client sites
Primary ResponsibilitiesMonitoring servers, managing hardware, ensuring uptimeInstalling, troubleshooting, and maintaining network hardware and connections

While both roles involve technical skills and work in data or network environments, Data Center Operators focus on maintaining server hardware and data center operations, whereas Network Technicians specialize in network infrastructure and connectivity. Understanding these differences helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a data center operator?

To thrive as a Data Center Operator, you need strong technical aptitude in IT infrastructure, hardware troubleshooting, and basic networking, usually supported by an associate degree or relevant certifications like CompTIA Server+. Familiarity with data center management tools, monitoring systems, and ticketing software is typically required. Attention to detail, problem-solving skills, and the ability to work effectively under pressure are vital soft skills for this position. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining data center uptime, ensuring system reliability, and quickly resolving technical issues.

What are popular job titles related to Data Center Operator jobs in Maryland?

For Data Center Operator jobs in Maryland, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Data Center Operator jobs in Maryland look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Center Operator jobs in Maryland are:

Data Center Operator jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Center Operator job openings in Maryland as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 89% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $146,950 per year, or $70.6 per hour.

Data Center Market Development Manager

JDS Viavi Solutions

Germantown, MD • On-site

$168K/yr

Other

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 2 days ago

New

Job description

Summary:
VIAVI (NASDAQ: VIAV) is a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions for telecommunications, cloud, enterprises, first responders, military, aerospace, and railway. VIAVI is also a leader in light management technologies for 3D sensing, anti-counterfeiting, consumer electronics, industrial, automotive, government and aerospace applications.
We are the people behind the products that help keep the world connected at home, school, work, at play, and everywhere in between. VIAVI employees are passionate about supporting customer success and we welcome people who bring their best every day to the company - to question, to collaborate and to push for solutions that will delight our customers.
Duties & Responsibilities:
Position Purpose
VIAVI is seeking a Data Center Market Development Manager passionate about data center technologies and innovation to drive growth, develop new opportunities, and accelerate adoption of VIAVI's fiber network test, measurement, and automation solutions across the hyperscale data center ecosystem.
The role focuses on market development, customer engagement, and go-to-market execution for testing solutions covering:
  • Multi-fiber testing inside data centers and campus environments
  • Fiber characterization and qualification for data center interconnects
  • High-speed Ethernet service activation, including next-generation speeds (800G and beyond)
  • Cloud-based workflow platform for test automation, data management and reporting

This position is ideal for a business-development-oriented professional with a strong interest in emerging network technologies, capable of translating VIAVI test capabilities into tangible customer value and market impact.
Market & Scope
  • Hyperscale data centers (cloud, AI, campus architectures)
  • Colocation and multi-tenant data centers
  • Contractors and ecosystem partners, including dark-fiber and lit-fiber providers supporting DC builds and DCI services

Key Responsibilities
  • Market Development & Go-to-Market Execution
  • Define and execute the Data Center market development and GTM strategy for fiber network test, measurement, and automation solutions
  • Identify growth opportunities across inside-data-center, campus, and DCI environments
  • Partner closely with Sales to define and optimize distribution models, including direct sales, rental partners, and distributors, based on customer profiles, deployment models, and regional needs
  • Develop competitive insights, positioning, and channel strategies to strengthen VIAVI's differentiation and maximize market coverage
  • Align execution with market segment priorities and business objectives
  • Proven track record of driving market share growth through competitive wins and displacement of incumbent solutions

Customer & Ecosystem Engagement
  • Build strong relationships with hyperscaler data center teams (network, optical, infrastructure, and metro deployment teams)
  • Engage key ecosystem partners (contractors, cable manufacturers, NEMs)
  • Lead customer discussions on testing challenges and requirements
  • Support Proof-of-Concepts, trials, and early deployments
  • Act as a trusted interface between customers, Sales, and Product Management

Technology & Value Proposition
  • Translate technical features into clear value propositions and business outcomes
  • Support and promote use cases related to: multi-fiber testing, fiber characterization and high-speed Ethernet testing and service activation
  • Demonstrate strong curiosity and ability to position new technologies and evolving test requirements

Voice of Customer & Internal Alignment
  • Capture market and customer feedback to influence product roadmaps and priorities
  • Provide insights on competitive dynamics, standards evolution, and market trends
  • Ensure alignment across Sales, Marketing, Product, and Services teams

Sales Support & Enablement
  • Support Sales and Pre-Sales through customer presentations, MOP development, and workshops
  • Participate in strategic customer engagements, events, and industry forums
  • Contribute to internal enablement and training programs

Pre-Requisites / Skills / Experience Requirements:
Required Qualifications & Experience
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Telecommunications, Physics, Computer Science, or related field
  • Minimum 5 years of experience in business development, market development, product marketing, or technical sales
  • Experience in data center and/or DCI networking environments
  • Prior experience with a network equipment vendor, fiber technology ecosystem or hyperscale DC operator preferred
  • Experience engaging hyperscalers or large data center operators is a strong asset

Technical Knowledge
  • Fiber-optic network architectures
  • Multi-fiber testing and high-density connectivity
  • Fiber characterization techniques (IL/ORL, OTDR, CD, PMD)
  • High-speed Ethernet testing and service activation up to 800G
  • Familiarity with Hollow-Core Fiber and Multicore Fiber preferred

Key Competencies
  • Strong business development mindset
  • High curiosity and appetite for new and emerging technologies
  • Customer-oriented with credibility toward technical stakeholders
  • Ability to interact confidently with senior management and executive audiences
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Ability to influence across functions without direct authority
  • Strategic thinker with a hands-on, execution-oriented approach
  • Comfortable operating in fast-moving and evolving technology environments

Languages
  • English - fluent (written and spoken)

Role Characteristics
  • Strategic growth role with strong exposure to hyperscale and data center market
  • Cross-functional role spanning Marketing, Sales, Product, and Technology
  • Direct contribution to next-generation data center networks and testing methodologies

Travel Requirement
  • Minimum 30% travel within North America
  • Occasional international travel for internal meetings and global alignment

If you have what it takes to push boundaries and seize opportunities, apply to join our team today.
VIAVI Solutions is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer - minorities/females/veterans/persons with disabilities.
Job Posting Pay Range:
113,050
to
209,950
Exceptional qualifications, experience and location may impact salary. VIAVI offers a competitive benefits package that includes paid time off, health, life and disability insurance, 401(k), and a bonus program.

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