Chief Engineer, Dceo

Amazon Web Services (Aws); Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology firm in Cape Town is seeking a Chief Engineer to oversee critical operations of data center infrastructure. The role involves managing technical operations, leading a response team, and driving innovations in engineering practices. Candidates should possess a Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, with proven leadership experience and expertise in mission-critical systems. This position values candidates with a passion for technology and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership in technical environments.
• Expert knowledge of mission-critical infrastructure.
• Strong understanding of mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee technical operations of infrastructure systems.
• Lead technical response to facility challenges.
• Drive innovation in engineering operations.

Skills

Leadership in technical engineering

Proficiency in electrical safety practices

Understanding of UPS and backup generator systems

Collaboration skills

Competence in IT programs

Education

Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering

Job description

Join to apply for the Chief Engineer, DCEO role at Amazon Web Services (AWS).

Transform critical data center infrastructure and become the technical guardian of Amazon Web Services' operational excellence in Cape Town. You’ll drive innovation, ensure peak performance of complex mechanical and electrical systems, and lead a team that keeps our global technology backbone running seamlessly.

Key Job Responsibilities

• Oversee Technical Operations: Manage day‑to‑day maintenance of mechanical, electrical, and life safety systems with precision and expertise.
• Lead Technical Response: Act as the primary escalation point for facility‑related technical challenges, implementing swift and effective solutions.
• Drive Innovation: Develop and deploy new standard practices for engineering operations and continuously improve operational efficiency.
• Training and Development: Provide comprehensive guidance and mentorship to Engineering Operations Technicians.
• Project Management: Coordinate large‑scale infrastructure projects from conception to completion, collaborating with cross‑functional teams.

A day in the life: Your day will be a dynamic blend of technical problem‑solving, strategic planning, and hands‑on engineering, navigating data center operations, troubleshooting sophisticated equipment, coordinating maintenance projects, and ensuring our infrastructure remains resilient and efficient.

About the Team

AWS Infrastructure Services owns the design, planning, delivery, and operation of all AWS global infrastructure. We support all AWS data centers and all of the servers, storage, networking, power, and cooling equipment that ensure our customers have continual access to the innovation they rely on. We work on the most challenging problems, with thousands of variables impacting the supply chain — and we’re looking for talented people who want to help. You’ll join a diverse team of software, hardware, and network engineers, supply chain specialists, security experts, operations managers, and other vital roles.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering.
• Proven leadership experience in technical engineering environments.
• Expert knowledge of mission‑critical infrastructure and equipment.
• Proficiency in electrical safety practices.
• Strong understanding of UPS, backup generator systems, and mechanical infrastructure.
• Competence in basic IT programs.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced certifications in electrical engineering.
• Experience with complex project management.
• Demonstrated ability to lead tactical response teams.
• In‑depth knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems.
• Strong cross‑functional collaboration skills.
• Experience in critical event response and management.

Amazon is an equal opportunities employer, and we value your passion to discover, invent, simplify and build.

We welcome applications from all members of society irrespective of age, sex, disability, sexual orientation, race, religion or belief. Amazon is strongly committed to diversity within its community and especially welcomes applications from South African citizens who are members of designated groups who may contribute to Employment Equity within the workplace and the further diversification of ideas.

We are required by law to verify your ability to work lawfully in South Africa. We require you to submit a copy of either your identity document or your passport and any applicable work permit if you are a foreign national, along with an updated curriculum vitae.

If you have a disability and need a workplace accommodation or adjustment during the application and hiring process, including support for the interview or onboarding process, please visit for more information.