Operating Engineer, Data Centers

Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated; Totowa (NJ); On-site; USD 90,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) plan with matching company

Paid time off

Paid parental leave

Daily Pay / early wage access

Job summary

Jones Lang LaSalle is seeking a Data Center Engineer to manage and optimize critical data center infrastructure in Totowa, NJ. You will monitor UPS, PDUs, cooling and security systems while coordinating with vendors and internal teams to ensure maximum uptime.

The role requires hands‑on technical expertise with power distribution and cooling, plus experience with BMS/DCIM platforms and on‑call coverage. A relevant degree and data center credentials are preferred.

Qualifications

• Associate degree or higher in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Facilities Management, or related field.
• 3–5 years in data center ops or critical facilities management.
• Hands‑on experience with electrical and mechanical systems (UPS, generators, PDUs).
• Knowledge of HVAC/CRAC/CRAH units and power distribution architectures.
• Familiarity with BMS and data center monitoring tools.
• DCCA or similar credential and HVAC/Electrical trade certifications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain critical data center infrastructure (UPS, PDUs, CRAC/CRAH, chillers).
• Perform preventive maintenance per schedules and manufacturers’ guidelines.
• Inspect facilities to preempt issues and respond to alarms promptly.
• Log maintenance activities and performance metrics.
• Support migrations, upgrades and vendor coordination.
• Participate in on‑call rotation for 24/7 coverage.
• Document root causes and drive preventive actions.

Skills

Troubleshooting

Safety mindset

Communication

Independent work

Physical stamina

Education

Associate's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering or related field

Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA) or equivalent

Tools

BMS

DCIM

UPS systems

Generators

Job description

JLL empowers you to shape a brighter way. Our people at JLL are shaping the future of real estate for a better world by combining world class services, advisory and technology for our clients. We are committed to hiring the best, most talented people and empowering them to thrive, grow meaningful careers and to find a place where they belong. Whether you’ve got deep experience in commercial real estate, skilled trades or technology, or you’re looking to apply your relevant experience to a new industry, join our team as we help shape a brighter way forward.

Position Overview

The Data Center Engineer is responsible for maintaining, monitoring, and optimizing critical data center infrastructure to ensure maximum uptime and operational efficiency. This role requires hands‑on technical expertise with mission‑critical systems including power distribution, cooling systems, fire suppression, security systems, and building automation.

Infrastructure Operations & Maintenance

• Monitor and maintain critical data center infrastructure including UPS systems, generators, PDUs, CRAC/CRAH units, chillers, and associated mechanical and electrical systems.
• Perform preventive maintenance on all critical equipment according to established schedules and manufacturer recommendations.
• Conduct regular inspections of data center facilities to identify potential issues before they impact operations.
• Respond to alarms and equipment failures promptly, troubleshoot issues, and execute corrective actions to restore service.
• Maintain accurate logs of all maintenance activities, equipment performance metrics, and incident reports.

System Monitoring & Performance

• Monitor Building Management Systems (BMS) and Data Center Infrastructure Management (DCIM) platforms to track environmental conditions, power usage, and equipment performance.
• Track and analyze key performance indicators including PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness), temperature/humidity levels, and equipment efficiency.
• Identify trends and anomalies in system performance and recommend corrective actions or improvements.
• Ensure environmental conditions remain within specified parameters to protect critical IT equipment.

Change Management & Projects

• Participate in planned maintenance windows, system upgrades, and equipment installations.
• Support data center expansion projects and infrastructure refresh initiatives.
• Execute change requests following established change control procedures to minimize risk.
• Coordinate with vendors and contractors during equipment installations, repairs, and commissioning activities.

Emergency Response & Business Continuity

• Respond to emergency situations including power failures, cooling system malfunctions, and fire alarm activations.
• Execute emergency procedures according to established protocols and elevate issues as appropriate.
• Participate in on‑call rotation to provide 24/7 coverage for critical systems.
• Support disaster recovery testing and business continuity exercises.

Documentation & Compliance

• Maintain accurate as‑built documentation, standard operating procedures, and equipment records.
• Ensure compliance with safety regulations, building codes, and industry standards.
• Complete required training and maintain certifications relevant to data center operations.
• Document root cause analysis for incidents and implement preventive measures.

Required Qualifications

• Associate's degree in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Facilities Management, or related technical field, OR equivalent combination of education and experience.
• 3-5 years of experience in data center operations, critical facilities management, or industrial/commercial building maintenance.
• Hands‑on experience with mission‑critical electrical and mechanical systems.
• Strong understanding of electrical systems including UPS, generators, switchgear, PDUs, and power distribution (single‑phase and three‑phase).
• Working knowledge of HVAC systems, particularly precision cooling units (CRAC/CRAH), DX Systems, and air handling systems.
• Familiarity with Building Management Systems (BMS) and monitoring platforms.
• Ability to read and interpret electrical/mechanical drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Basic understanding of data center networking and IT infrastructure (helpful but not required).
• Data Center Certified Associate (DCCA) or similar data center credential.
• Electrical or HVAC trade certification/license.
• OSHA safety training.
• First Aid/CPR certification.

Core Competencies

• Strong troubleshooting and problem‑solving abilities with systematic analytical approach.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to work with precision in high‑stakes environment.
• Effective communication skills for coordinating with team members, vendors, and stakeholders.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision and make sound decisions under pressure.
• Strong safety mindset and adherence to safety protocols.
• Physical ability to lift up to 50 lbs, work in confined spaces, and stand/walk for extended periods.

Working Conditions

• Environment: Climate‑controlled data center environment with exposure to noise from cooling and power equipment. May require working in server rooms, electrical rooms, and mechanical spaces.
• Schedule: Rotating shifts including nights, weekends, and holidays. Participation in on‑call rotation required for emergency response.
• Physical Requirements: Ability to climb ladders, work at heights, navigate tight spaces, and perform physical tasks associated with equipment maintenance.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience: $[salary range based on market/location]
• Comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plan, and paid time off.
• Professional development opportunities and certification reimbursement.
• Shift differential for non‑standard hours.
• This position does not provide visa sponsorship.
• Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship.
• Estimated compensation for this position: 100,380.00 – 100,380.80 USD per year.
• Location: On‑site –Totowa, NJ.

Personalized Benefits

• 401(k) plan with matching company contributions
• Comprehensive Medical, Dental & Vision Care
• Paid parental leave at 100% of salary
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Early access to earned wages through Daily Pay

Jones Lang LaSalle (“JLL”) is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

If you need a reasonable accommodation because of a disability for any part of the employment process – including the online application and/or overall selection process – you may email us at [e-mail]. This email is only to request an accommodation. Please direct any other general recruiting inquiries to our Contact Us page.

Pursuant to the Arizona Civil Rights Act, criminal convictions are not an absolute bar to employment.

Pursuant to Illinois Law, applicants are not obligated to disclose sealed or expunged records of conviction or arrest.

Pursuant to Columbia, SC ordinance, this position is subject to a background check for any convictions directly related to its duties and responsibilities. Only job‑related convictions will be considered and will not automatically disqualify the candidate.

California Residents only If you are a California resident as defined in the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) please view our Supplemental Privacy Statement which describes your rights and disclosures about your personal information.

Pursuant to the Los Angeles Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, JLL will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

We help our people thrive, grow meaningful careers and find a place where they belong.

For over 200 years, JLL (NYSE: JLL), a leading global commercial real estate and investment management company, has helped clients buy, build, occupy, manage and invest in a variety of commercial, industrial, hotel, residential and retail properties.

A Fortune 500 company with operations in over 80 countries around the world, our employees bring the power of a global platform combined with local expertise.

Driven by our purpose to shape the future of real estate for a better world, we help our clients, people and communities SEE A BRIGHTER WAYSM.

JLL is the brand name, and a registered trademark, of Jones Lang LaSalle Incorporated.

For further information, visit jll.com.