Data Centre Operations Engineer (DCOPS) - Freehold NJ

Job DescriptionJob Description

Role Overview

The Data Centre Operations Engineer is responsible for providing 24x7 ( Multiple Shifts) onsite data centre hardware and cabling support for critical enterprise data centres. This role delivers “smart hands” services in a managed services environment, supporting installations, break/fix repairs, decommissioning, and inventory management while adhering strictly to change management, security, and safety standards.

The role requires hands-on technical expertise, strong operational discipline, and the ability to work independently during assigned shifts, including on-call and emergency support.

Key Responsibilities

Data Centre Hardware & Cabling Operations

• Perform rack, stack, and installation of IT hardware (servers, network, and storage devices).

• Install and remove copper and fibre cabling (Single-Mode, Multi-Mode).

• Plan and execute cable routing, trunking, patch panel installations, and capacity upgrades.

• Label all cabling and equipment in accordance with data centre standards.

• Power up cabinets and IT devices following best practices and load balancing guidelines.

New Installations

• Review and acknowledge work requests via DCRM within 24 hours.

• Complete installations within agreed SLAs and business timelines.

• Configure management interfaces (iLO / iDRAC).

• Perform network connectivity testing, including ping tests.

• Update all relevant systems (DCRM, DCTracks, HRS).

• Coordinate with network, SAN, and customer teams during planning and execution.

Break / Fix & Incident Support

• Troubleshoot and resolve hardware and cabling issues within SLA targets.

• Replace hardware components such as NICs, SFPs, memory, and hard drives.

• Join major incident (MIM) and outage bridges as required.

• Maintain clear communication with incident bridge owners and stakeholders.

• Provide timely updates and close tickets within defined resolution timelines.

Decommissioning & Asset Management

• Execute decommissioning activities under approved change records.

• Remove hardware, cabling, and patch cords end-to-end.

• Prepare equipment for disposal in line with decommissioning and data destruction procedures.

• Perform disk wiping, shredding, and disposal tracking (ADR / ERI).

Hardware Receiving & Inventory Control

• Log all incoming and outgoing equipment in the Hardware Receiving System (HRS).

• Track assets in DCTracks and ensure inventory accuracy.

• Coordinate shipments, RMAs, and inter-site transfers.

• Ensure all updates are completed within the same shift or within SLA timelines.

Facilities & Cross-Functional Support

• Coordinate with facilities teams during power work and infrastructure changes.

• Perform pre- and post-power checks on IT equipment.

• Support cabinet placement, power requests, floor tile work, and cable tray installations.

• Assist vendors and manage access to meet-me rooms and secured areas.

Compliance, Safety & Documentation

• Follow all data centre policies, work rules, and change management procedures.

• Maintain compliance with security, safety, and audit requirements.

• Complete required training and background checks.

• Ensure accurate documentation and system updates for all activities.

Skills & Technical Requirements

• Hands-on experience in enterprise data centre operations.

• Strong knowledge of copper and fibre cabling (SM, MM).

• Experience with rack & stack, hardware installations, and break/fix repairs.

• Familiarity with tools such as DCRM, DCTracks, HRS, or equivalent systems.

• Ability to troubleshoot network connectivity and hardware faults.

• Comfortable working in 24x7 shift-based environments.

Tools & Equipment

• Proficient with hand tools for hardware and cabling installation.

• Experience using fibre testing and troubleshooting equipment (1G / 10G / 100G).

• Familiarity with portable cable labelling tools (e.g., Brady BMP series).

Work Environment & Schedule

• Onsite role at critical data centre facilities.

• Rotational shifts including nights, weekends, and on-call support.

• Emergency and extended-hour support may be required during incidents or large projects.