Head of Critical Data Center Operations

Meta; Temple (TX); On-site; Full time

Job description

Meta is seeking a Critical Operations Manager to join our Data Center Operations team. Our data centers serve as the foundation upon which our software operates to meet the demands of our customers. The Critical Operations Manager (COM) is responsible for the safe and effective operations, maintenance, and modernization of a ~30-70 MW data center. This person must be familiar with equipment utilized in critical environments, maintain a focus on continuous improvement as well as operational rigor, and experience managing a team.

Critical Operations Manager Responsibilities

• Develop and execute tactical and strategic plans to safely and effectively operate, maintain, and modernize physical infrastructure.
• Manage a team of Lead Building Engineers, Critical Facility Engineers, and Facility Project Manager through effective leadership, coaching, and performance management.
• Review and approve procedures based on internal standards and industry best practices.
• Investigate incidents, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions to improve operations.
• Collaborate with peer Critical Operations Managers to ensure consistency in strategy, approach, and delivery of critical operations.
• Maintain partnerships with technical and support teams to achieve maximum uptime and ensure seamless operations.
• Support the environmental, health and safety (EHS) program and ensure adherence to Meta Safety Policies and Procedures.
• Routinely inspect buildings, grounds, and critical equipment to identify potential issues and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with work management processes, including CMMS and EAM, and industry standards.
• Develop and maintain a comprehensive incident response program, including emergency operating procedures and business continuity plans.
• Support construction project execution (new & retrofit) in the data center, ensuring adherence to construction processes while supporting the critical operations environment.

Occasional travel as required (<10%), with more travel possible during onboarding.

Minimum Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in critical facilities operations.
• 3+ years of experience in team management.
• Proficient with maintenance management programs.
• Regularly walk on flat and uneven terrain.
• Work at varying heights and from ladders.
• Lift and/or move 45 pounds or more regularly.
• Use hands and fingers for various tasks, including reaching/pushing/pulling with hands/arms/shoulders, stooping, kneeling, crouching, and crawling.

Preferred Qualifications

• Equipment field service engineering experience.
• Trade Certification or state license in Mechanical (HVAC).
• Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements).
• Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies.
• 7+ years of experience in a data center or other critical environment.
• Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews).

Equal Employment Opportunity

Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and affirmative action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state, and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may rely on artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment. Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at [e-mail].

$143,000/year to $198,000/year + bonus + equity + benefits. Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.