IT Infrastructure and Data Center Engineer

The Ohio State University; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 70,000 - 82,000; Full time

Job summary

The Ohio State University is seeking an IT Infrastructure and Data Center Engineer to implement, maintain, and support campus network infrastructure and data center facilities. You will install, test, and document fiber optic infrastructure and circuits while collaborating with IT specialists, engineers, project managers, and architects to enhance network performance.

Responsibilities include reactive and preventive maintenance, on-call after hours, and ensuring cost-effective technology

Qualifications

• Two (2) years of IT infrastructure and/or data center facilities experience in an enterprise environment.
• One or more years of fiber optic and copper cabling installation and testing experience for networking systems.
• Fiber optic training via Light Brigade, BICSI, Corning or other equivalent training.
• Basic knowledge of building and fire codes applicable to communications installations.
• Strong written and verbal customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to learn new technologies and work independently or in a team.
• A valid Ohio driver's license and ability to respond to emergencies after hours.

Responsibilities

• Install, test, document, repair, and maintain fiber optic infrastructure and circuits.
• Inspect and maintain data center physical infrastructure to support campus network services.
• Triage, troubleshoot, diagnose, and resolve network issues across Columbus campus and off-site locations.
• Contribute to projects to expand network services and improve reliability and user experience.
• Participate in on-call rotation and occasional after-hours support.

Skills

IT infrastructure

Fiber optics

Copper cabling

Customer service

Communication

Driver's license

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Fiber optic training (Light Brigade / BICSI / Corning)

Tools

TrueView

AutoCAD

Bluebeam

OTDR

Fiber optic scopes

Fusion splicer

Unicam terminations

Job description

Job Title:IT Infrastructure and Data Center EngineerDepartment:OCIO | Telecommunication and Networking

The IT Infrastructure and Data Center Engineer is responsible for the successful implementation, maintenance, and support of the IT and data center physical infrastructure that enables campus network services. Leveraging professional experience and technical expertise, the Engineer applies knowledge of industry concepts, practices, and protocols across outside plant and data center facilities. Responsibilities include installation, testing, documentation, repair, and maintenance of fiber optic infrastructure and circuits.

The Engineer, working under general direction from leadership, architects, and senior engineers, contributes to projects of moderate scope and complexity, applying judgment within defined parameters. The role focuses on maintaining and enhancing campus network services through collaboration with IT specialists, engineers, project managers, and architects to support network expansion initiatives and improve service delivery. The Engineer also supports the strategic vision of network leadership by providing recommendations to enhance network performance, reliability, and overall user experience.

The Engineer performs reactive and preventive maintenance of network physical infrastructure, including triage, troubleshooting, diagnosis, and resolution of network issues across the Columbus campus, regional campuses, and Ohio State Extension offices. The position requires participation in an on‑call rotation and occasional after‑hours support, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

The Engineer represents the Office of Technology and Digital Innovation with professionalism and a strong commitment to customer service. The role requires effective interaction with students, faculty, staff, partners, affiliates, and visitors while delivering efficient, reliable, and cost‑effective technology solutions that support the needs of the university and its colleges, departments, and business units.

Required Education and Experience:

Education:

Bachelor's level degree in a technical field OR equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• Two (2) years of IT infrastructure and/or data center facilities experience or combination thereof in an enterprise environment
• One or more years of fiber optic and copper cabling installation and testing experience for networking systems
• Fiber optic training via Light Brigade, BICSI, Corning or other equivalent training
• Basic knowledge of building and fire codes as applicable to communications installations
• Great written and verbal customer service and communication skills with ability to convey technical information with clarity and conciseness
• Ability to learn new technologies and methods and work both independently and within a team
• A valid Ohio driver's license and ability to respond to emergencies after hours

Desired Education and Experience:

• Two (2) to four (4) years of IT infrastructure and/or data center facilities experience or combination thereof in an enterprise environment
• Experience reading construction drawings and familiarity with associated programs such as TrueView, AutoCad, and/or Bluebeam.
• Experience with tools and materials such as OTDR, power meter, fiber optic scopes, splicing, and using a fusion splicer & mechanical (example: Unicam) terminations
• Familiarity with ITIL processes and good practices
• BISCI certification and/or other telecom and fiber optic related certifications

This position is mapped to Information Technology, IT Infrastructure and Data Center, Specialized, S2.

Additional Information:

The Targeted Hiring Range for this position is $70,100 to $81,960. The offer for this position will be based on internal equity and the candidate's qualifications.

Sub-function: Information Technology, IT Infrastructure and Data Center

Career Band: Individual Contributor – Specialized

Career Level: S2

Location:Mount Hall (0311)

Position Type:Regular

Scheduled Hours:40

Shift:

First Shift

Final candidates are subject to successful completion of a background check. A drug screen or physical may be required during the post offer process.

The university is an equal opportunity employer, including veterans and disability.