5 tips how to get a job in a data center – from a data center employees

The job market for data centers is booming. According to a report by Uptime Institute, the global demand for data center workers is expected to grow by 23% between 2019 and 2025. This growth is being driven by the increasing demand for data storage and processing, as well as the growing adoption of cloud computing and other emerging technologies. 

From a warehouse to a data centers

Martin, a childhood friend of Ondrej Horak,  product manager at Altron Modular, came to us a while ago asking about how to get a job within a data center industry.
Martin: “I’m currently working as a customer service representative for a technology company, but I’m looking to make a change. I am worried if data center jobs aren’t reserved just for people with technical background and university degree.” 

Since this is a question we hear often, we surveyed our current and past colleagues about their experience in data center jobs. The results were unanimous: don’t worry, Martin, there are several ways how to get into a data center world.  

• Lubos got a job in a data center as a technician after working as a customer service representative for a technology company. He took some online courses to learn more about data center operations and networked with people in the industry. 
• David got a job in a data center as an operator after working in a warehouse. They had no prior experience in data centers, but they were able to learn the ropes quickly. 
• Malgorzata got a job in a data center as an engineer after graduating from college with a degree in computer science. She did an internship at a data center while she was in college and gained valuable experience. 

How to get a job in a data center

Here are some of theirs tips for getting a job in a data center: 

• Be willing to start in a lower-level position. Many people start their careers in data centers as technicians or operators. This is a great way to gain experience and learn the basics. 
• Be willing to relocate. Many data centers are located in remote areas. If you are willing to relocate, you will have more job opportunities. 
• Get certified. There are a number of data center certifications available, such as the CompTIA Data Center Technician (CDT) certification and the BICSI Data Center Design Professional (DCDP) certification. Getting  certified can demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential employers. 
• Network with people in the industry. Attend industry events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and reach out to recruiters.
• Gain the necessary skills and experience. Data center jobs often require a combination of technical skills and experience. Some of the most important skills include computer hardware and software knowledge, networking skills, and problem-solving skills. You can gain these skills through formal education, on-the-job training, or certification programs. 

One of the best ways to learn about data center jobs and to find opportunities is to network with people who already work in the field. Attend industry events, connect with people on LinkedIn, and reach out to recruiters.

Ondrej Horak, product manager at Altron Modular.   

Technical skills: 

• Computer hardware and software knowledge 
• Networking skills 
• Problem-solving skills 
• Attention to detail
• Experience with cloud computing technologies is also a plus 

With the right skills, experience, and preparation, you can increase your chances of landing a job in a data center. This is a growing and exciting field with many opportunities for advancement. Check out the career section of Altron here.