Data Center Operation Engineer

Job Overview

The Senior Data Center Operations Engineer plays a critical, hands-on role in supporting the build-out and long-term operation of a high-performance, enterprise-scale data center environment .

This position is designed for an experienced engineer with deep expertise in server hardware troubleshooting, Linux systems, and data center operations . You will contribute during the initial build and deployment phase , supporting infrastructure bring-up, validation, and hardware readiness. As the environment transitions into steady-state operations, you will take ownership of ongoing reliability, advanced troubleshooting, and continuous improvement initiatives .

This role requires a strong operator mindset—someone who thrives in high-availability environments and takes pride in resolving complex issues at their root. You will serve as a technical escalation point, working closely with engineering and infrastructure teams to maintain system stability and performance.

You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, making clear and professional communication in English (written and verbal) essential for success in this role .

This role offers continuity across both deployment and operational phases, providing a strong foundation for long-term technical growth within a critical infrastructure program.

Key Responsibilities

Advanced Hardware Troubleshooting & Repair

• Diagnose and resolve complex hardware failures across server platforms (motherboards, CPUs, memory, storage)
• Perform component-level repairs and replacements on servers and data center hardware
• Execute break/fix processes with a focus on minimizing downtime and meeting SLAs
• Conduct root cause analysis (RCA) of hardware failures and recommend preventative actions
• Identify recurring failure trends and contribute to tooling and process improvements
• Perform such other duties and responsibilities as may be reasonably be assigned from time to time

Linux Systems & Platform Support

• Utilize Linux command-line tools for system monitoring, diagnostics, and troubleshooting
• Support provisioning and deployment of servers across various Linux distributions (RHEL, Ubuntu, etc.)
• Troubleshoot boot-level and OS-level issues in production environments
• Collaborate with engineering teams to resolve complex issues involving hardware/software interaction

Data Center Operations

• Support hardware installation, structured cabling, and infrastructure validation
• Maintain accurate inventory of spare parts, assets, and retired equipment
• Document all repairs, changes, and configurations in ITSM/DCIM systems
• Ensure adherence to data center safety, security, and operational protocols
• Act as a technical escalation point for complex infrastructure issues
• Participate in on-call rotation supporting 24x7 operations

Collaboration & Mentorship

• Provide guidance and training to technicians on hardware troubleshooting best practices
• Collaborate with network, storage, and infrastructure teams to resolve cross-functional issues
• Contribute to knowledge sharing, documentation, and operational excellence initiatives

Required Skills

• Strong English communication skills (written and verbal) are required for coordination with cross-functional teams
• Expert-level knowledge of server hardware architecture and component-level troubleshooting
• Strong proficiency with Linux systems and command-line diagnostics
• Solid understanding of networking fundamentals and hardware (switches, routers, firewalls)
• Experience working within structured operational environments (SOPs, SLAs, ticketing systems)
• Familiarity with ITSM/DCIM tools (ServiceNow, Jira, or similar)
• Experience with structured cabling and fiber optic connectivity
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
• Ability to operate effectively in high-pressure, high-availability environments
• Strong organizational and documentation skills

Required Experience

• 5+ years of experience in data center operations or similar infrastructure environments
• Significant hands-on experience with server hardware troubleshooting and repair
• Minimum of 2 years of experience working with Linux operating systems in production environments
• Experience supporting enterprise server platforms and infrastructure environments
• Demonstrated experience performing root cause analysis and resolving complex hardware issues
• Experience working within ticketing systems and operational workflows
• Exposure to data center build-outs, deployments, or infrastructure upgrades (preferred)

Preferred Certifications

• CompTIA A+, Server+, or Linux+
• LPI certification or equivalent
• Vendor-specific hardware certifications

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs
• Ability to work in a temperature-controlled environment with moderate noise levels
• Ability to perform physical tasks such as standing, walking, bending, and kneeling for extended periods