Data Center Operations Engineer

Data Center Operations Engineer

Location: New York / New Jersey

Business Area: Engineering & CTO

Compensation: $32-$48 per hour

Schedule: Rotating Shifts (Days, Evening, Nights, Weekends)

Position Overview
We are seeking a motivated Data Center Operations Engineer to support the deployment, maintenance, and reliability of critical production infrastructure. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys solving technical problems, working with Linux systems, server hardware, and enterprise networking, and collaborating in a fast-paced, mission-critical environment.
As part of the data center operations team, you will install and maintain servers, network equipment, and cabling while monitoring infrastructure health and responding to operational incidents. Success in this role requires strong technical aptitude, attention to detail, effective communication, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor, troubleshoot, and respond to data center infrastructure events to maintain high availability.
• Install, configure, maintain, and replace server, storage, and networking hardware.
• Perform hardware diagnostics, repairs, and preventive maintenance.
• Troubleshoot Linux/Unix operating system issues using system logs and command-line tools.
• Support Layer 2 and Layer 3 network connectivity and assist with network troubleshooting.
• Manage rack installations, cable routing, labeling, and physical asset documentation.
• Assess operational risks, coordinate maintenance activities, and communicate service impacts.
• Maintain accurate documentation of infrastructure, equipment, and network connections.
• Escalate critical incidents and collaborate with engineering teams to resolve production issues.
• Contribute to process improvements that enhance data center reliability, efficiency, and operational excellence.

Required Qualifications

• Working knowledge of Linux/Unix administration, including system logs, hardware identification, file systems, and file management.
• Understanding of Layer 2 and Layer 3 networking concepts.
• Strong troubleshooting and analytical problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a production environment.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Able to work rotating shifts, including days, evenings, nights, weekends.
• Ability to lift up to 25 pounds and perform physical work within a data center environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience replacing server and network hardware.
• Familiarity with Cisco IOS and Juniper JunOS.
• Experience with monitoring and observability tools such as Grafana and Splunk.
• Basic scripting or programming experience (Bash, Python, or similar).
• Knowledge of airflow management, power systems, cabling standards, and equipment installation.
• Demonstrated leadership, collaboration, and a passion for mentoring teammates.

Work Environment
This position involves hands-on work in a production data center supporting critical infrastructure. Engineers collaborate closely with operations and engineering teams to ensure system stability, rapid incident response, and continuous service availability while adhering to operational and safety standards.