Vice President, Data Center Operations

At Switch, we don’t just design, build and operate data centers—we are enabling the technology of the future. Led by Founder & CEO, Rob Roy, we believe in revolutionary innovation, operational excellence and the principle of karma. Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world.

We believe that innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about the people, culture, and purpose that make it happen. Every Switch team member contributes to a mission greater than themselves: to create the world’s most advanced digital infrastructure that powers the progress of humanity.

The Role: Vice President, Data Center Operations

The Vice President of Data Center Operations is accountable for operational performance, reliability, and compliance across assigned Switch campuses.

You lead critical systems operations in a 24/7 mission-critical environment and are responsible for maintaining continuous uptime, regulatory compliance, and operational discipline.

This role sets operational standards, develops leaders, manages budgets, and ensures infrastructure performance meets Switch expectations and client requirements. You report to the SVP of Data Center Operations.

What You’ll Do

• Lead critical systems operations across assigned campuses or Prime locations
• Establish and enforce operational standards to maintain continuous uptime
• Oversee monitoring, maintenance, and lifecycle management of electrical and mechanical infrastructure
• Drive long- and short-term operational planning, including cost control and capital planning input
• Develop department structure, roles, succession planning, and technical training programs
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and industry audits
• Oversee commissioning, reporting, and operational readiness processesPartner with Construction and Engineering to support campus expansion and infrastructure upgrades
• Maintain executive-level reporting on operational performance, risk exposure, and resource planning
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients, vendors, contractors, and regulatory stakeholders
• Lead vendor management strategy, performance reviews, and contract oversight
• Ensure adherence to safety requirements and OSHA standards across multi-megawatt facilities
• Support business development efforts as needed to reinforce operational credibility
• Respond to major incidents and provide executive leadership during critical events

What We’re Looking For

• Executive-level operational judgment in high-availability environments
• Ability to lead large, multi-disciplinary teams across regions
• Clear and direct communicator with experience reporting to senior leadership
• Strong risk management mindset with disciplined decision-making under pressure
• Ability to balance uptime, safety, cost control, and long-term infrastructure strategy
• Leader who builds accountability, ownership, and technical excellence within teams
• Comfortable operating in a 24/7 environment with emergency response expectations

What You’ll Bring

Required:

• 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in critical facilities, data center operations, or similar high-availability infrastructure environments
• 5+ years of senior leadership experience overseeing multi-site or large-scale operations
• Strong background in electrical and mechanical systems used in mission-critical environments
• Experience managing operational budgets and capital planning inputs
• Deep understanding of safety standards and regulatory compliance in multi-megawatt facilities
• Ability to interpret blueprints, schematics, electrical drawings, and infrastructure documentation

Preferred:

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Electronic Engineering, or related field
• Relevant industry certifications
• Experience with DCIM, BMS, and facility monitoring systems
• Experience supporting large-scale construction or expansion programs

Operational Requirements:

• 24/7 availability for emergency response
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as required
• Ability to work near live electrical and mechanical systems
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and perform site walk-throughs, ladder climbing, and equipment inspections

Why Switch?

• A Culture of Karma – We are self-motivated by karma, ensuring our actions contribute to a positive, supportive and forward-thinking environment.
• Industry Leading Designs – Work with the most advanced data center technology on the planet and be a part of emerging technology development.
• Flexibility & Remote Opportunities – Whether in-office, hybrid, or fully remote, we offer the technology and support to keep teams connected and productive.
• Career Stability & Growth – In this expanding industry, we invest in our people, providing opportunities & advancement in a stable, growing company.
• Generous Benefits Package - Switch provides comprehensive coverage for you and your family that can be tailored to fit your personal needs, and more!

Join Us & Make a Difference

This is more than a job—it’s a mission. If you’re ready to be part of a culture that values innovation, karma, and limitless potential, we want to hear from you.

Equal Employment Opportunity
Switch is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide employment opportunities without discrimination or harassment based on any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

Accommodations
Switch provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If you need an accommodation, contact View email address on click.appcast.io .