What is a data center and what careers does it offer?
Data centers are essential infrastructure in a digital world. These ‘engine rooms’ of the internet—super-sized, ultra-secure facilities full of powerful computers—store, process, and send information all over the globe, 24/7. Every time you scroll social media, check your bank balance, or stream entertainment, you’re benefiting from the work they do. Now, with the rapid growth of AI and cloud, they’re driving the next wave of innovation in science, healthcare, and beyond.
Oracle is leading the way in next-generation AI data centers and that means big career opportunities. From professionals who design, build, and maintain the physical infrastructure to data center technicians who support the hardware, cabling, power, and security. Even people with no previous experience in tech are discovering new careers in the field.
What do data center technicians do?
Oracle data centers drive the future of cloud and AI, and it takes creative, technical minds to make it a reality. Data center technicians and other data center professionals ensure the smooth operation of our data centers and are the backbone of our cloud services and technology solutions. They also help develop the new regions and sites that support massive new cloud workloads.
Day-to-day tasks involve maintaining, monitoring, and optimizing the performance of core infrastructure and foundational technologies for data center operations. This includes troubleshooting hardware and managing physical infrastructure, like servers, storage devices, and network switches.
Data center technicians who advance to site lead roles will often oversee and optimize data center operations in a specific region. This involves managing various responsibilities related to site management, technical operations, team coordination, project management, and stakeholder collaboration.
How are data center technicians helping advance generative AI?
Generative AI is driving breakthroughs in business and research everywhere. As the demand for AI grows, AI companies require secure, reliable, high-performance cloud and AI infrastructure that allows them to scale GPU instances quickly and economically. Oracle’s is the only cloud that delivers complete cloud services around the world, across clouds, or in a customer's own data center.
Data center technicians help make this possible through repairs, installations, and the monitoring of core infrastructure. It all adds up to hundreds of new data centers to meet the growing demand for our services—including the world’s largest supercomputer.
What skills do data center technicians need?
Working with the latest tools and technology to solve customer challenges takes many skills. Check out some of the abilities you’ll need to deliver critical support.
Technical knowledge
A solid understanding of computer hardware troubleshooting is crucial. This includes proficiency in IT support skills like server management and network administration.
Problem solving
Excellent problem-solving abilities are a must and help technicians address complex issues swiftly and efficiently.
Communication
Along with technical ability, effective communication skills are essential for collaborating with colleagues and creating clear, concise technical documentation.
Willingness to learn
You don’t have to start out as an expert. Our work-based learning program helps tech newcomers become confident team members. Just bring a good attitude and an eagerness to get hands-on.
What qualifications do I need to become a data center technician?
You don’t need a four-year college degree or previous data center experience to get started at an Oracle data center. Some of our most successful data center technicians come from retail, construction, warehouse work, manufacturing, and food service, or right out of high school.
Our training and onboarding programs give you the technical know-how and mentoring needed to get started in tech without any prior experience. People from trade backgrounds like HVAC, electrical, and plumbing (or vocational and technical programs) bring valuable skills—but curiosity, a good attitude, and a commitment to safety matter most.
More senior data center technician roles require data center-related experience in structured cabling, hardware troubleshooting, servers, networking, and Linux. Some roles may also require a critical facilities background in power, cooling, mechanical, and HVAC.
What kind of people work at data centers?
Data centers thrive on people with a range of skills and a love of solving problems. Our people work at the cutting-edge of technology in an environment that inspires camaraderie, trust, and shared purpose. In a 24/7 environment like a data center, community isn’t a nice to have—it’s essential.
Connection and mentorship is a big part of this and strengthens a culture of safety, precision, and accountability. Strong relationships are valued and improve communication during incidents, raise the quality of handovers and documentation, and accelerate skill sharing.
What it’s like to work at an Oracle data center
“The work itself is challenging, dynamic, and always rewarding. The constant movement, growth, and change allow me to keep my skill set honed.” Alexandra shares how the fast-paced, ever-evolving nature of her work keeps her skills sharp and gives her more opportunities for growth.
Read about life as a data center technician
Rising to leadership
"I'm proud to have presented at executive-level meetings, both internally and externally. It's a great opportunity to showcase our work and contribute to the bigger picture." Melissa always loved being at the cutting edge, now she makes a positive impact every day as a senior field support manager.
Data center opportunities for Veterans
“I think it is an amazing opportunity and I appreciate the inclusivity Oracle has for veterans.” Jacqueline shares her story of transitioning out of the military to a thriving career as an Oracle data center technician.
Data center support careers
Running a data center takes lots of talented people with a range of vital skills. It all adds up to harnessing the full potential of Oracle products and solutions to drive global customer success.
Data center infrastructure roles
From breaking ground to groundbreaking innovations, these hands-on roles span everything from facilities engineering and development to support, low voltage, and field roles.
Read about opportunities in data center construction
Technical support engineer
Be there when people need you most. Connect with internal experts to supply technical and functional support that feeds customer satisfaction.
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Data center engineer
Troubleshoot issues and make global business more efficient. Connect data center and technology teams to help solve complex infrastructure issues.