Data Center Technician

Microsoft • Ashburn, VA

5d • $24 - $41 • Onsite

About The Position

As a Microsoft Data Center Technician (DCT), you will learn and perform standard processes for preparing, installing, diagnosing, troubleshooting, replacing, and decommissioning data center equipment with guidance from experienced colleagues. You will develop familiarity with Microsoft’s data center environment, security and data management procedures, and the infrastructure supporting Microsoft’s online services, including Bing, Office 365, Xbox, OneDrive, and Azure.

The role is part of Cloud Operations & Innovation (CO+I), which operates a global portfolio of more than 200 data centers in 32 countries. Microsoft emphasizes employee development through training, career rotation opportunities, inclusion programs, and professional certifications. Environmental sustainability and optimization are central to data center design and operations.

The position involves working in a data center environment with elevated ambient noise, heat, and light. You may travel to support other locations, typically up to 25%, and may work 12-hour shifts during non-standard hours, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Microsoft cannot sponsor a work visa for this role. Candidates must be authorized to work in the United States without current or future employer sponsorship, and citizenship verification is required for this position.

Requirements

• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent and basic knowledge of computer hardware and components, or equivalent experience.
• Ability to meet Microsoft, customer, and/or government security screening requirements, including the Microsoft Cloud Background Check upon hire or transfer and every two years thereafter.
• Citizenship verification with a valid passport is required due to citizenship-based legal restrictions applicable to government customers.
• Authorization to work in the United States without requiring employer sponsorship now or in the future.
• Ability to work 12-hour shifts, including non-standard hours that may include evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to travel up to 25%, typically domestically, including travel between locations during the workday and occasional overnight stays.
• Ability to meet the stated physical and visual requirements, including prolonged standing; climbing stairs, ramps, and occasionally ladders; occasional lifting and pushing or pulling loads with assistance or assistive devices; and normal visual acuity and color vision for electrical work.

Responsibilities

• Follow data center policies, procedures, and deadlines, and escalate compliance or operational assurance concerns.
• Review Process Change Notifications and seek clarification or provide feedback about changes affecting work.
• Complete assigned tickets in alignment with relevant performance indicators, seeking guidance for complex tasks.
• Learn and follow processes for preparing, installing, diagnosing, troubleshooting, replacing, and decommissioning data center equipment.
• Develop a fundamental understanding of cabling infrastructure and network, server, and storage equipment.
• Complete security and data management training and follow the associated procedures; report physical security concerns or incidents.
• Support effective team handovers and collaboration across shifts, share information, participate in team meetings, and exchange feedback.
• Participate in safety briefings and required EHS training; follow safety procedures, complete hazard analyses, and use appropriate equipment and PPE.
• Monitor performance indicators and develop understanding of cross-functional data center processes and stakeholder partnerships.
• Complete assigned training and learn through observation and on-the-job training; pursue supplemental training or relevant certifications when assigned.
• Seek guidance on client interactions and escalate concerns when appropriate.
• Prepare, stage, set up, and perform basic hardware startups and shutdowns according to written instructions and safety requirements.
• Perform decommissions, simple infrastructure changes, and equipment refreshes according to standard procedures.
• Identify data-bearing devices for eradication or destruction and process them as required, with guidance.
• Immediately communicate, report, and escalate technical or safety incidents; provide incident updates and complete directed follow-up actions.
• Learn post-execution verification of grounding, staging, labeling, and cabling, and escalate deployment or network design template errors for correction.
• Perform basic diagnostics and troubleshooting, identify causes of technical issues, and replace faulty network, storage, or server components while minimizing customer or business disruption.
• Recognize circumstances that may have significant customer or business impact.
• Embody Microsoft’s culture and values.

Benefits

• Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation; details are available through Microsoft’s pay and benefits information page.
• Training and growth opportunities, including Career Rotation Programs, Diversity & Inclusion trainings and events, and professional certifications.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED