Lead Data Center Technician

Specific job responsibilities of a data center technician differ according to where they work. However, there are several core tasks associated with the role. Based on our analysis of multiple job listings, these include:

Perform Preventative Maintenance

On a daily basis, data center technician’s complete preventative maintenance of equipment and data network devices. They operate in tight spaces, run & label cabling, and improve physical security around their assigned data center. Data center technicians engage in building projects and check utilities. To make sure the center does not overheat, they carefully examine power sources and heating and cooling controls. The Data Center Technicians must have a clear understanding how the Facilities machinery is used to support the data center infrastructure such as CRAC, UPS, PDU, Switchgear, ATS and power Strips

Server Management and Repair

Data center technicians troubleshoot and repair servers that have hardware and network issues. They run hardware diagnostics and replace failing parts. They are responsible for day-to-day performance and capacity management of servers. If something goes wrong, data center technicians are called on to quickly fix it in order to keep business data flowing.

Monitor System Processes

Monitoring and maintaining operation of all network processes is the primary duty of data technicians. They evaluate machine temperature levels for optimal performance. Data technicians are expected to maintain accurate work records and event logs. They also create concise virtual information reports to keep company management informed of status updates.

Cross-Collaborate to Protect Data

Data technicians install and arrange new equipment for data centers. This may include physically checks of internal system components (CPU), memory hard drives, fiber cables, copper, and more. Once devices are racked, data technicians do the cabling, labeling and update ACDC forms. They also keep inventories of cabling and items that are needed to support the Data Centers.

Technical Support and Education

Data center technicians provide live support to clients and coworkers and are expected to troubleshoot problems as they occur. They act as a main point person in the field, putting out fires and working on projects simultaneously. Educating other data center staff on how to properly troubleshoot hardware is also a key part of their role.

Data Center Technician Skills and Qualifications

Successful data center technicians are self-driven and work effectively with little supervision. Employers typically seek out candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in a technical field. They also prefer candidates who possess the following abilities:

• Hardware repair – data center technicians are hired to complete basic repair of damaged or faulty network equipment and devices
• IT computer networking – technicians are in charge of installing servers, switches, routers, monitors, and computer networking
• Troubleshooting skills – performing tests to identify cabling and basic hardware issues, and replacing the bad cabling or peripherals.
• Physical Requirements – data technicians stay on their feet, and regularly crawl, crouch, kneel, lift, and move up to 40lbs over short distances
• Inventory management – data technicians are required to maintain accurate inventory of tools, equipment, and network devices
• Communication skills – being able to explain complicated technical process in a simple to way to non-technical staff is a requirement for successful data technicians
• Technical writing skills – data technicians often develop standard operating procedures and manuals for the Network, Storage and servers installed at the Data Centers.