Data Center - Operations Manager IV

AFL; Atlanta (GA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

AFL is seeking an experienced Data Center Operations Manager to oversee day-to-day operations and project schedules at hyperscale data center construction sites.

The role ensures operational readiness, safety compliance, and seamless coordination between construction, splicing, and operations teams in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in data center operations, construction, or field management.
• Experience managing large-scale, fast-paced construction projects in hyperscale environments.
• Strong knowledge of PMO principles and tools (MS Project, Smartsheet, Primavera).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to travel to data center sites as needed.

Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate field operations across multiple data center sites.
• Manage construction and splicing schedules with contractors and stakeholders.
• Drive PMO processes, documentation, reporting, and governance.
• Facilitate regular meetings and updates with leadership and partners.
• Ensure smooth handoff from construction to operations and readiness testing.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Travel capability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in engineering or construction management

Tools

MS Project

Smartsheet

Primavera

Job description

AFL provides industry-leading fiber optic products and services across the globe. Our company was founded in 1984 with a single fiber optic cable and now we manufacture over two thousand products, employ over 5,000 associates and consistently generate annual sales in excess of a billion-dollars in revenue. With our commitment to professional growth and employee development, let AFL “Connect” you to your next career opportunity!

Job Summary

The Data Center Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations, project schedules, and program management activities at hyperscale data center construction sites. This role ensures operational readiness, safety compliance, and seamless coordination between construction, splicing, and operations teams in a high-growth, fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

Daily Operations Management

• Lead and coordinate all field operations activities across multiple scopes at data center sites.
• Ensure adherence to safety, quality, and operational standards.
• Monitor and report on site performance metrics and KPIs.

Project & Schedule Oversight

• Manage construction and splicing schedules in collaboration with general contractors and internal stakeholders.
• Track milestones, identify risks, and implement mitigation strategies to ensure on-time delivery.

Program Management Office (PMO) Support

• Drive PMO processes including documentation, reporting, and governance.
• Support cross-functional coordination between engineering, construction, and operations teams.
• Maintain project dashboards, status reports, and executive summaries.

Stakeholder Communication

• Serve as the primary point of contact for field operations with internal leadership and external partners.
• Facilitate regular meetings, site walks, and progress updates.

Operational Readiness

• Ensure smooth handoff from construction to operations.
• Support commissioning activities and readiness testing.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for new sites.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Construction Management, or related field (or equivalent experience).
• 7+ years of experience in data center operations, construction, or field management.
• Proven experience managing large-scale, fast-paced construction projects, preferably in hyperscale environments.
• Strong understanding of PMO principles and tools (e.g., MS Project, Smartsheet, Primavera).
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to travel to data center sites as needed.