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Data Center Tech Jobs in Illinois (NOW HIRING)

Salute Inc.

Data Center Operator

Hoffman Estates, IL · On-site

$39/hr

Ensure data center operates at maximum operational efficiency, including: * analyzing existing operating conditions, * recommending new technologies and improving overall efficiency and cost ...

Jump Trading

CORE | Data Center Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

We design, develop, and deploy technologies that change our world, fund start-ups across industries ... What You'll Do: Remotely manage data center infrastructure (power, cooling, hardware, cabling ...

Jump Trading

CORE | Data Center Technician

Chicago, IL · On-site

$120K - $180K/yr

We design, develop, and deploy technologies that change our world, fund start-ups across industries ... What You'll Do: Remotely manage data center infrastructure (power, cooling, hardware, cabling ...

NTT Data, Inc.

Data Center Technician L1

Chicago, IL · On-site

... technology and transformative projects. Experience a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive ... Understanding of the mechanical, electrical, and fire life safety systems used in a data centre ...

NTT Data, Inc.

Data Center Technician L1

Chicago, IL · On-site

... technology and transformative projects. Experience a collaborative, innovative, and inclusive ... Understanding of the mechanical, electrical, and fire life safety systems used in a data centre ...

Pico

Data Center Engineer

Chicago, IL · On-site

$70K - $100K/yr

As financial industry experts at the center of markets and technology, we help our clients ... Working within Pico's and Pico's clients' various Data Centers in Chicago with some NY, Mexico and ...

Meta

Data Center Development Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$170K/yr

Meta designs, builds, and operates some of the most advanced and efficient data center ... Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When ...

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All JobsData Center Tech JobsData Center Tech Jobs in Illinois

Data Center Tech information

See Illinois salary details

$14

$25

$41

How much do data center tech jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for data center tech in Illinois is $25.17, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.81 and $27.93 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a data center tech?

Data Center Techs, or Data Center Technicians, are IT professionals responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and ensuring the smooth operation of servers and network equipment within data centers. Their duties include installing hardware, monitoring systems, performing repairs, and supporting network infrastructure to guarantee uptime and data security. They often work in environments with strict physical and cybersecurity protocols, providing hands-on technical support for organizations that rely on large-scale computing resources.

What skills and qualifications are needed to thrive as a data center tech?

To thrive as a Data Center Tech, you need a solid understanding of computer hardware, networking, and basic troubleshooting, often supported by an associate degree or relevant certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+. Familiarity with server operating systems, remote management tools, and ticketing systems is commonly required. Strong attention to detail, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication help you efficiently resolve issues and collaborate with team members. These skills and qualities are crucial for maintaining uptime, ensuring security, and supporting the critical infrastructure needs of a data center environment.

What are some typical challenges a data center tech faces, and how can they be addressed?

Data Center Techs often encounter challenges such as troubleshooting hardware failures, managing high-pressure situations during outages, and maintaining uptime while conducting repairs or upgrades. Staying organized and following detailed documentation can help prevent errors during hardware swaps or cabling tasks. Additionally, effective communication with team members and other departments is essential to coordinate maintenance windows and minimize service disruptions. Continuous learning about new hardware and data center protocols also helps techs stay prepared for evolving technology and best practices.

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

AspectData Center TechNetwork Technician
CertificationsCompTIA Server+, Cisco CCNA, Data Center certificationsCompTIA Network+, Cisco CCNA, similar network-focused certs
Work EnvironmentData centers, server rooms, hardware installation and maintenanceNetwork operation centers, client sites, troubleshooting network issues
Job FocusHardware setup, server maintenance, power and cooling systemsNetwork configuration, troubleshooting, cabling, and connectivity

Data Center Techs primarily focus on hardware, servers, and infrastructure within data centers, while Network Technicians concentrate on network systems and connectivity. Both roles require similar certifications and often work in overlapping environments, but their core responsibilities differ in hardware versus network focus.

Are data center techs in demand?

Data center technicians are in high demand due to the growth of cloud computing, data storage needs, and infrastructure expansion. Employers seek skilled workers with knowledge of networking, hardware, and certifications like CompTIA Server+ or Cisco CCNA to maintain and troubleshoot data center operations.

Is IT hard to become a data center technician?

Becoming a data center technician typically requires technical skills in networking, hardware, and troubleshooting, along with relevant certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+. The role often involves working in a fast-paced environment with shift schedules and physical tasks, but with proper training and experience, it can be accessible for those interested in IT infrastructure.

What do you do as a data center technician?

A data center technician is responsible for installing, maintaining, and troubleshooting hardware and network equipment in data centers. They monitor system performance, perform repairs, and ensure the proper functioning of servers, storage devices, and cooling systems, often using tools like diagnostic software and following safety protocols. Certifications such as CompTIA A+ or Network+ can be helpful in this role.

What are popular job titles related to Data Center Tech jobs in Illinois?

For Data Center Tech jobs in Illinois, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Data Center Tech jobs in Illinois look for?

The top searched job categories for Data Center Tech jobs in Illinois are:

What cities in Illinois are hiring for Data Center Tech jobs?

Cities in Illinois with the most Data Center Tech job openings:

Data Center Tech jobs near you
Infographic showing various Data Center Tech job openings in Illinois as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 68% Full Time, 29% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 86% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,357 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Data Center Operator

Salute Inc.

Hoffman Estates, IL • On-site

$39/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Operate, monitor, and respond to abnormal conditions of facility systems to ensure operational integrity.

  • Perform planned and ad-hoc preventive maintenance on electrical, mechanical, and fire/life safety equipment.

  • Manage and coordinate work requests, inspections, and maintenance activities to maintain data center uptime and safety.

Job description


Data Center Operator (DCO) 

Job Description: 

The Data Center Operator (DCO) is a facilities-focused role that is responsible for the operational integrity, commissioning, and regulatory compliance of the electrical power, mechanical, monitoring and control systems, and the processes that maximize customer uptime in the most cost-effective way for highly available, concurrently maintainable, fault tolerant mission-critical data center environments. 

The DCO is responsible for ensuring that all electrical, mechanical, and fire/life safety equipment within the data center are operating at peak efficiency and the utmost levels of reliability. This involves both planned preventative maintenance of equipment, daily corrective work, and response to emergency issues. The DCO is our front line when it comes to hands-on electrical and mechanical equipment troubleshooting. The DCO serves as an expert, highly capable technical resource, reporting to the Site Manager and interacting with On-Site Multi-Skilled Operators [MSO] and any third-party vendors. They are expected to be a singular focal point for all facility operations within a given data center. Data center equipment that supports mission-critical servers must maintain better than 99.999% uptime. This equipment includes, but is not limited to standby diesel generators, related fuel systems, electrical switchgear, UPSs, PDUs, AHUs, related thermal management equipment and systems, chemical treatment systems (where applicable), pumps, motors, VFDs, and building automation systems. 

Salute Benefits That Put You First

We know life doesn’t stop when work begins, that’s why we offer perks designed to support your well-being, your family, and your future:

  • Time to Recharge: Enjoy 8 company-paid holidays, 2 floating holidays, and PTO so you can rest, celebrate, and take care of what matters most. 
  • Comprehensive Benefits Package: Including Medical, Dental, and Vision that you can enroll in starting on Day 1.  Coverage begins the first of the month following 30-days of employment. 
  • Peace of Mind: The Employee Assistance Program is available to all employees, even if you do not participate in the benefits package. 
  • Your financial future matters: Enjoy our employer-supported 401(K) with immediate 100% vesting, plus a 3% employer match and a 50% match on the next 2%.
  • Wellness Support: Access to HSA, mental health resources, and gym discounts—because your health matters. 
  • Extra Protection & Perks: Through discounted group programs, such as legal services, home & auto insurance, pet insurance, and ID theft protection for life’s unexpected moments.
  • Onsite gym


Responsibilities: 

  • Place SAFETY at the top of anything and everything that they do – without fail. 
  • Focus on the tasks and activities given to them and remain consistently focused on SAFETY. 
  • Operate, monitor, maintain, and respond to abnormal conditions of facility systems. 
  • Complete planned and ad-hoc preventive maintenance work assignments, requiring the skill and direction of several electrical, mechanical, maintenance trades and engineering disciplines. 
  • Conduct periodic inspections of building systems, i.e., HVAC, electrical distribution, maintain mechanical equipment rooms/enclosures to ensure clean, functional and safe conditions. 
  • Rapid response, investigation and management of indoor emergency situations and air quality complaints, including humidity. 
  • Havea complete working knowledge on creating, closing and tracking "work requests" (WR). Initiate or respond to work orders, follow-up and verify completion of work. 
  • Monitor performance/note deficiencies of service contractors and recommend changes as necessary. 
  • Provide applied electrical, mechanical, integrated control and water chemistry technical expertise for the entire data center. 
  • Directly interface with management team, contractors and consultants for all phased data center construction commissioning, including integration and testing of new systems while maintaining critical systems online. 
  • Work with the Site Manager and other stakeholders to track and complete a preventive and predicative maintenance schedule for critical maintenance and system commissioning. 
  • Ensure data center operates at maximum operational efficiency, including: 
  • analyzing existing operating conditions, 
  • recommending new technologies and improving overall efficiency and cost reduction. 
  • Responsible for data center white space and back-of-house electrical loading and capacity, including client installations and systems. 
  • This position may require unusual hours of work approximately once every other week to meet critical maintenance windows and scheduling. 
  • Directly manage contractors and consultants for daily operations and critical maintenance (UPS systems, generators, switchgear, and chiller maintenance). 
  • Provide applied electrical, mechanical, integrated control and technical expertise for the entire data center. 
  • Directly manage and supervise Multi-Skilled Operators in all aspects of day-to-day operations and maintenance of all electrical and mechanical critical facility equipment. 
  • On-call to respond to emergency situations at the data center. 
  • Perform other related duties and responsibilities as assigned by management. 

The Data Center Operator interacts across all internal departments, including executives and will interact with clients and vendors. 

Desired Skills & Experience: 

  • Strong background in operating mechanical and electrical critical systems, design review, layout, installation, including the ability to read and interpret electrical and mechanical one lines. 
  • Ability to conduct power- and thermal system capacity, safety and code compliance assessments. 
  • Hands-on experience installing, maintaining and troubleshooting large commercial and industrial electrical systems including: 
  • Medium-voltage switchgear 
  • 480/277 Volt and 208/120-volt electrical generation and distribution systems 
  • Diesel powered AC generators. 
  • Static UPS systems (where applicable) 
  • Dynamic Rotary UPS Systems (where applicable) 
  • Multi-string flooded cell batteries and monitoring systems 
  • Static switches 
  • PLC and relay logic controls 
  • Power monitoring systems 
  • Data center power distribution and management systems 
  • Current knowledge of NFPA Electrical, Fire and Life Safety and building codes, or local regulatory equivalent within the location of the data center. 
  • Knowledge of NEC, NFPA 70E, NFPA 72, NFPA 25 and compliance issues 
  • Expert knowledge in industrial safety best practices (i.e. lockout/tag out, arc flash protection, OSHA and state regulations) 
  • An excellent understanding of the electrical and mechanical systems involved in critical data center operations, including systems such as feeders, transformers, generators, switchgear, UPS systems, ATS units, PDU units, chillers, pumps, air handling units, and CRAC units. 
  • Work directly with customers, internal teams, installation engineers, technical consultants, and other implementation personnel to coordinate customer turn-ups, process flow, to ensure smooth transition from installation to operation. 

Qualifications 

  • 4-year degree in an engineering discipline from an accredited university 
  • Full use of sight, hearing and voice are required as well as full motor skills 
  • The ability tolift upto 23kgs (50lbs), bend, stoop, reach overhead and stand for long time periods 
  • A minimum of 5 years of directly related experience in the operation, installation, and maintenance of data center critical equipment, building systems with in-depth technical understanding and knowledge of all HVAC, electrical, plumbing, fire/life safety, and control systems 
  • Knowledge of the electrical and mechanical systems used in a data center environment,including:Feeders, Transformers, Generators, Switchgear, UPS systems, ATS/STS units, PDU/PMM units, Chillers, Air handling units and CRAC units 
  • Good observation skills and problem-solving ability 
  • Military experience would be an advantage 
  • As a condition of employment, the employee must successfully complete a background investigation