Data Center Technician

Overview

As a Data Center Technician (DCT) at Microsoft, you will develop an understanding of standard processes and procedures for preparing, installing, performing diagnostics, troubleshooting, replacing, and decommissioning equipment. This role focuses on delivering core infrastructure for Microsoft's cloud services, including Bing, Office 365, Xbox, OneDrive, and Azure. You will gain familiarity with security and data management procedures within a global portfolio of over 200 data centers.

Microsoft’s Cloud Operations & Innovation (CO+I) values personal and professional development, offering various training, growth opportunities, and certifications. This is an on-site U.S. based position that may require business travel up to 25% and the ability to work 12-hour shifts, including non-standard business hours.

Microsoft's mission is to empower every person and organization to achieve more, fostering a culture of inclusion, respect, integrity, and accountability.

Responsibilities

Datacenter Operations

• Receive guidance to understand standard processes for preparing, installing, diagnosing, troubleshooting, replacing, and decommissioning IT datacenter technology and equipment.
• Develop a fundamental understanding of cabling infrastructure, network, server, and storage equipment functions and interactions.
• Review Process Change Notifications (PCNs) to understand impact on work execution and changes within the work area.
• Comply with Data Center business unit policies and procedures, escalating compliance issues as needed.
• Efficiently complete assigned tickets according to Key Performance Indicators (KPIs), seeking guidance on complex tasks.

Service Delivery

• Develop an understanding of effective execution order strategies for assigned tasks.
• Prepare, stage, set up, and perform basic hardware startups and shutdowns (e.g., racks, hard drives, switches) using provided instructions and safety protocols.
• Learn post-execution verification for grounding, staging, labeling, and cabling to align with safety protocols and deployment standards.
• Perform basic diagnostics and troubleshooting, with guidance, to identify and replace faulty components in network, storage, or server equipment with minimal disruption.
• Follow procedures to communicate, report, and escalate data center technical or safety incidents, participating in bridge calls when necessary.
• Perform decommissions, simple changes (e.g., memory upgrades, OS rebuilds), and refreshes of infrastructure equipment, processing data-bearing devices (DBDs) securely.

Managing Service

• Escalate and seek guidance regarding client interactions.
• Maintain awareness of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) for personal performance discussions.
• Develop an understanding of cross-functional Data Center processes to support stakeholder partnerships.
• Complete required training for job focus areas (e.g., Break fix, Deployment, Simple Change, Decommission, IT Critical Environment) and observe experienced technicians for on-the-job training.

Datacenter Work Environment

• Participate in daily safety briefings, complete EHS training, and comply with safety procedures and PPE use.
• Adhere to and promote a culture of safety, reporting concerns and incidents proactively.
• Complete required security and data management training, complying with policies, and escorting third-party vendors when necessary.
• Contribute to a positive team environment by sharing information, participating in meetings, and adopting best practices.
• Be prepared for up to 25% travel and the ability to work 12-hour shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements (Applies to but is not limited to US-based Data Center roles)

• Occasional climbing of ladders.
• Frequent climbing of stairs and/or ramps.
• Prolonged standing.
• Occasional lifting 50lbs. / 22.5kg.
• Occasional push or pull 50-75lbs. / 22.5-34kg. with assistive device.
• Normal visual acuity (near, far and peripheral with correction).
• Normal color vision for electrical work.

Qualifications

Required/Minimum Qualifications:

• High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent and basic knowledge of computer hardware and components OR equivalent experience.
• Open to candidates enrolled in the Hiring Our Heros SkillBridge program.

Other Requirements:

• Ability to meet Microsoft, customer, and/or government security screening requirements, including the Microsoft Cloud Background Check and citizenship verification for U.S. government agency customer support.

Preferred Qualifications:

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent and basic knowledge of computer hardware and components AND 1+ year(s) experience supporting IT equipment or related technology OR equivalent experience.

Key skills/competency

• Data Center Operations
• Hardware Installation
• Troubleshooting
• IT Infrastructure
• Network Cabling
• Server Maintenance
• Storage Systems
• Security Procedures
• Diagnostics
• Process Compliance