Data Center Technician I - Entry Level

Ericsson; Cedar Rapids (IA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 57,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) Plan with company match

Health benefits options

Paid time off and holidays

Stock Purchase Plan

Job summary

Ericsson is hiring an Associate Data Center Technician in Council Bluffs, IA to support equipment staging, installation, and maintenance in data center environments. The role offers hands-on tasks with rack preparation, cabling, labeling, and documentation, developing core skills in data center operations.

The ideal candidate has a high school diploma or equivalent and basic understanding of hardware, networking, and cabling.

Qualifications

• High school diploma, technical certification, vocational training, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of computer hardware, telecommunications equipment, networking, or data center infrastructure.
• Familiarity with copper and fiber cabling concepts is asset.
• Ability to safely use basic hand tools and follow detailed instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to complete documentation.
• Effective collaboration and willingness to learn from others.

Responsibilities

• Receive, unpack, and stage equipment and cabling.
• Perform basic inventory checks against packing lists.
• Assist with rack positioning and preparation.
• Install rack accessories and PDUs.
• Support rack-and-stack activities per procedures.
• Perform basic copper and fiber patching.
• Route and dress cabling per standards.
• Capture serial numbers and installation records.
• Execute MACD activities under supervision.
• Conduct routine inspections and escalate issues as needed.
• Follow safety and quality procedures.

Skills

Basic hardware knowledge

Attention to detail

Documentation and data entry

Team collaboration

Safety compliance

Willingness to learn

Ability to lift up to 50 lbs

Travel availability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Copper and fiber cabling concepts

Job description

About this opportunity

Ericsson Inc. does not sponsor U.S work authorizations for this job position including U.S. immigration filings for initial and/or change of employer paperwork for H-1's, H-1B1's, E-3's, O-1's, and TN's. Ericsson also does not hire F-1's working on CPT or EAD for this position.

Job Location: Council Bluffs, Iowa

Ericsson is seeking an Associate Data Center Technician to support the installation, operation, and maintenance of equipment within hyperscale and enterprise data center environments. This entry-level role is well-suited for individuals beginning their careers in data center operations, telecommunications, or technical infrastructure. As part of a collaborative delivery team, you will carry out hands‑on tasks related to equipment staging, rack preparation, cabling, labeling, inventory management, and documentation - all while building knowledge of industry best practices alongside experienced colleagues. This position offers a strong foundation for developing technical skills and growing within data center operations.

What you will do

• Receive, unpack, and stage equipment, consumables, and cabling in designated areas.
• Perform basic inventory checks against packing lists and update inventory tracking systems.
• Assist with rack positioning, leveling, and physical preparation under the guidance of senior team members.
• Install rack accessories such as cable managers, blanking panels, and pre-configured power distribution units (PDUs).
• Support rack-and-stack activities by lifting, aligning, and securing equipment per documented procedures.
• Perform basic copper and fiber patching using predefined port maps and installation instructions.
• Route and dress cabling in accordance with quality and data center standards.
• Apply labels to racks, ports, and cabling according to established naming conventions and color-coding standards.
• Capture equipment serial numbers, rack locations, photographs, and installation records using standard templates.
• Execute low-risk moves, adds, changes, and disconnects (MACD activities) under the direction of senior team members.
• Perform routine visual inspections of equipment, cabling, alarms, and work areas, escalating issues promptly.
• Follow established methods of procedure (MOPs), safety requirements, and quality standards at all times.

The skills you bring

• High school diploma, technical certification, vocational training, or equivalent experience preferred.
• Basic understanding of computer hardware, telecommunications equipment, networking, or data center infrastructure.
• Familiarity with copper and fiber cabling concepts is considered an asset.
• Ability to safely use basic hand tools and follow detailed work instructions.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately complete documentation and data entry tasks.
• Effective collaboration and communication skills, with a willingness to learn from experienced colleagues.
• Ability to identify issues and seek guidance promptly when questions or concerns arise.
• Demonstrated commitment to safety, quality, and continuous learning.
• Prior exposure to data centers, telecommunications, field services, or technical training programs is beneficial but not required

Physical requirements

• Comfortable working in a physically active environment where lifting, standing, working at heights, and moving equipment is required.
• Ability to work on ladders or elevated work platforms and comply with all applicable safety requirements and certifications.
• Ability to lift and move equipment up to 50 lbs.
• Willingness and ability to travel 50% - 100% of the time

Why join Ericsson?

At Ericsson, you'll have an outstanding opportunity. The chance to use your skills and imagination to push the boundaries of what's possible. To build solutions never seen before to some of the world's toughest problems. You'll be challenged, but you won't be alone. You'll be joining a team of diverse innovators, all driven to go beyond the status quo to craft what comes next.

Ericsson uses a merit-based hiring approach that values people with different experiences, perspectives and skillsets. We truly believe this approach drives innovation, which is essential for our future growth. We encourage people from all backgrounds to apply and realize their full potential as part of our Ericsson team. Ericsson is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer, learn more.

If you need assistance or to request an accommodation due to a disability, please contact Ericsson at [e-mail].

DISCLAIMER: The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees in this position. They are not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required for this position, and you may be required to perform additional job tasks as assigned.

Primary country and city: United States (US) || Iowa Remote (Country/ City)

Job details: Field Services

Compensation and Benefits at Ericsson
At Ericsson, we know that our people are the key to our success. We offer a competitive package to help with your individual needs and goals.

Your Pay
The salary range for this position is dependent on various factors including, but not limited to, location, and the candidate's combination of job-related knowledge, qualifications, skills, education, training, and experience.

Short-Term Variable Compensation Plan : Your pay also includes the opportunity for an annual bonus. Actual bonus payouts are based on performance of the business against the unit's objectives, individual performance, and the individual bonus target. Certain eligibility and pro-ration rules apply.

Your Health
Ericsson offers excellent health benefits including the choice of three medical plan options and a dental plan option that allow an employee to select the level of coverage that suits their needs. Employees will receive company credits in an amount equal to the cost that Ericsson pays toward the cost of their medical and dental premiums for themselves and eligible covered dependents.

Your Financial Security

We invest in both your short and long-term financial wellbeing. The Ericsson US 401(k) Plan offers an automatic 3% company contribution and Ericsson match $1 for every $1 you put into the 401(k) Plan on the first 3% of your eligible pay, plus 50 cents on every $1 on the next 2% of eligible pay. When you contribute at least 5% of eligible pay, you are receiving Ericsson's full matching contributions of 4%. Matching and company automatic contributions stop when your total eligible pay for the year reaches the IRS limits. Employees will also receive company credits in an amount equal to the cost of basic life insurance and basic accidental death and dismemberment coverage, as well as short-term and long-term disability coverage. Employees also have the option to participate in Ericsson's Stock Purchase Plan.

Your Time
Your work-life balance is important to us. New employees are provided a minimum of 15 days of accrued vacation, up to 3 personal days per year, 11 annual holidays, 8 hours of volunteer time, and 80 hours of sick time annually. Please note paid time off is pro-rated based on the employee's start date. Furthermore, Ericsson provides up to 16 weeks of paid maternity leave and 6 weeks of parental or adoption leave at 100% of pay.

Additional Benefits
Ericsson offers many other company-paid benefits such as financial wellness programs, educational assistance, matching gifts, and recognition programs.