Data Center Technician

phoenixNAP; Ashburn (VA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 56,000; Full time

Job summary

phoenixNAP is seeking an entry-level Data Center Technician I to support the physical infrastructure of our Ashburn facility. You will assist with hardware installation, cabling, and basic troubleshooting, working closely with the NOC and engineering teams.

This role provides hands-on experience, documentation, and a path to more advanced Data Center positions as you gain skills in rack deployment, MACs, and equipment provisioning.

Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of computer hardware or server components.
• Familiarity with structured cabling (fiber and copper).
• Ability to follow diagrams, rack elevations, and written procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs. and work in rack environments.
• Willingness to work night shifts, weekends, or holidays if required.

Responsibilities

• Install server rails and mount servers in racks.
• Rack switches, PDUs, and other infrastructure equipment.
• Install and dress fiber and copper cabling.
• Label and asset-tag equipment.
• Follow rack elevation diagrams and deployment documentation.
• Perform cable management and rack organization.
• Move, add, and change hardware as needed.
• Install networking gear and supporting infrastructure.
• Perform initial hardware provisioning and firmware updates.
• Conduct basic power-on checks and hardware verification.
• Maintain accurate inventory and asset records.
• Perform break/fix troubleshooting on server and networking hardware.
• Provide smart-handssupport for customers and internal teams.
• Escalate complex issues to NOC Technicians or Engineers.
• Document work completed through ticketing systems.
• Assist customers and vendors within the data center.
• Maintain professional communication with internal teams and customers.
• Ensure compliance with data center procedures.

Skills

Hardware basics

Structured cabling

Attention to detail

Ability to lift 50 lbs

Shift flexibility

Education

Basic IT knowledge or certification

Tools

IPMI

iDRAC

KVM

Job description

phoenixNAP is a global IT services provider with a focus on cybersecurity and compliance-readiness, whose progressive Infrastructure-as-a-Service solutions are delivered from strategic edge locations worldwide. Its dedicated servers, hardwareleasing,andoptions are built to meet always evolving ITbusinessesrequirements. Providing comprehensive disaster recovery solutions, DDoS-protected global network, hybrid IT deployments with software and hardware-based security, phoenixNAP fully supports its clients’ business continuity planning. Offering scalable and resilientopexsolutions with expert staff toassist, phoenixNAP supports growth and innovation in businesses of any size enabling their digital transformation.We comply strictlywithPCI DSS standards and are accredited twiceyearly.

JOB SUMMARY

The Data Center Technician I is an entry-level technical role responsible for supporting the physical infrastructure of the data center. This position focuses on hardware installation, cabling, basic troubleshooting, and providingsmart-handssupport for customers and internal teams.

Technicians work closely with the NOC and engineering teams to ensure reliable operation of mission-critical infrastructure whilemaintainingaccuratedocumentation and adhering to data center best practices.

This position serves as the entry point into the data center operations team and provides a pathway for advancement into NOC Technician and Engineeringroles.

CORE RESPONSIBILITIES

Hardware Deployment

• Install server rails and mount servers in racks

• Rack switches, PDUs, and other infrastructure equipment

• Install and dress fiber and copper cabling

• Perform equipment labeling and asset tagging

• Follow rack elevation diagrams and deployment documentation

• Perform cable management and rack organization

Data Center Operations

• Performs Moves, Adds, and Changes (MACs)

• Install networking gear and supporting infrastructure

• Perform initial hardware provisioning and firmware updates

• Conduct basic power-on checks and hardware verification

• Maintainaccurateinventory and asset records

Troubleshooting & Support

• Perform break/fix troubleshooting on server and networking hardware

• Providesmart-handssupport for customers and internal teams

• Assistwith hardware diagnostics and basic troubleshooting

• Escalate complex issues to NOC Technicians or Engineers

• Document work completed through ticketing systems

Customer & Vendor Support

• Assistcustomers and vendors working within the data center

• Maintain professional communication with internal teams and customers

• Ensure compliance with data center operational and safety procedures

Required Qualifications

• Basic knowledge of computer hardware or server components

• Familiarity with structured cabling (fiber and copper)

• Ability to follow diagrams, rack elevations, and written procedures

• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills

• Ability tolift upto50lbs.and work in rack environments

• Ability to work scheduled shifts including nights, weekends, or holidays ifrequired.

• Travelto other locations may berequired

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working in a data center or IT hardware environment

• Familiarity with Linux or Windows systems

• Basic networking knowledge (IP addressing, switches, cables)

• Experience using remote management tools such as IPMI, iDRAC, or KVM

• Experience working with ticketing systems

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50lbs

• Work from ladders or within rack environments

• Stand, bend, kneel, and work on raised floors for extended periods