Data Center Technician (On-site)

Job Description

Position Summary:

The Data Center Technician supports the continuous operation of Vanderbilt University's computing infrastructure by monitoring systems, responding to incidents, and maintaining the physical environment of the data centers. This role involves hands-on work with IT hardware, network cabling, and coordination with internal teams and external vendors to fulfill service requests. The technician ensures that all activities follow established procedures and contribute to a secure, efficient, and reliable data center environment.

About the Work Unit:

Vanderbilt University Information Technology is a human-centric organization that advances our university by delivering innovative solutions and frictionless experiences through collaboration.

Key Functions and Expected Performance:

Incident Monitoring and Response

• Monitor system dashboards, alerts, emails, and phones for signs of abnormal activity.
• Escalate issues to appropriate teams following documented procedures.
• Create and update incident records with accurate and timely information.
• Coordinate communication during major incidents and ensure proper documentation.

Data Center Operations and Equipment Handling

• Install, move, and decommission rack-mounted equipment.
• Run and manage network cabling within the data center.
• Maintain accurate inventory records and follow change management protocols.
• Conduct regular audits of equipment and consumables.
• Coordinate with customers and vendors to fulfill service requests.
• Enforce data center security policies and escort visitors as needed.
• Support project activities by collaborating with internal teams and contractors.

Environmental Monitoring and Facility Checks

• Perform routine walk-throughs to identify visual or audible signs of equipment failure.
• Monitor environmental systems (e.g., HVAC, UPS, fire suppression) for alerts or anomalies.
• Report and escalate facility-related issues as appropriate.

Administrative and Support Tasks

• Operate and monitor systems related to data, voice, and television networks.
• Maintain logs for equipment check-outs and procedural documentation.
• Analyze logs and generate periodic operational reports.

Work Schedule:

This position follows a 12-hour shift schedule with rotating days, supporting 24/7 operations in the Network Operations Center, which remains open year-round. The role will initially be assigned to the day shift (7:00 AM - 7:30 PM) but may transition to the night shift (7:00 PM - 7:30 AM) based on operational needs. Flexibility to work either shift is required.

Driving Required:

Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record. Vanderbilt University engages a third party to provide up-to-date notifications regarding negative changes to motor vehicle records.

Supervisory Relationships:

This position does not have supervisory responsibility. This position reports administratively and functionally to the Data Center Services Manager.

Education and Certifications:

• High school education is necessary
• Associate or bachelor's degree in a related field is preferred
• CompTIA Network+ or Cisco CCENT certification is preferred

Experience and Skills:

• 1 year+ of experience in an IT field is necessary
• 1 year+ of experience in a data center or IT Operations field is preferred
• Fundamental knowledge of computer networks is necessary
• Moderate skills with the Microsoft Office Suite is necessary
• Experience running network cables is preferred
• Demonstrated commitment to VUIT's Guiding Principles is necessary

Information Technology's Guiding Principles:

• Trust and Respect- VUIT cultivates a community built on trust, mutual respect, and inclusivity, where all members feel valued and supported. We prioritize honesty, dignity, empathy, and a willingness to listen and understand.
• Professionalism- VUIT strives to maintain a culture of maturity, accountability, and integrity to best represent the University and self. Have a sense of humility and poise in your work and daily interactions.
• Collaborate- VUIT commits to being inclusive in solution design where we value sharing within and partnering across the university. We are intentional about including our colleagues and preventing silos.
• Bias-to-Action- VUIT is seen as a changemaker by exhibiting a decisive, self-starter, take-action approach with a willingness to make decisions without excessive deliberation. Personal initiative is recognized as a key part of the creative process.
• Communicate- Communication (written, verbal and non-verbal), within and outside VUIT, is open, thoughtful, welcoming, clear, proactive, concise yet complete, always honest, and delivered kindly.
• Innovate- VUIT pledges to be bold and challenge the status quo by inspiring a culture of creativity that promotes growth and advancement for the university.
• Celebrate Each Other- We are intentional in showing appreciation for the work of others by valuing and acknowledging meaningful contributions at all levels of the organization.
• Optimize- VUIT will practice continuous and thoughtful optimization of our solutions and services to increase our human and technological capacity. Capacity drives innovation.

About Us

At Vanderbilt University , our work - regardless of title or role - is in service to an important and noble mission in which every member of our community serves in advancing knowledge and transforming lives on a daily basis. Located in Nashville, Tennessee, on a 330+ acre campus and arboretum dating back to 1873, Vanderbilt is proud to have been named as one of "America's Best Large Employers" as well as a top employer in Tennessee and the Nashville metropolitan area by Forbes for several years running. We welcome those who are interested in learning and growing professionally with an employer that strives to create, foster and sustain opportunities as an employer of choice.

We understand you have a choice when choosing where to work and pursue a career. We understand you are unique and have a story. We want to hear it. We encourage you to apply today so that you might become a part of our story.

Vanderbilt University is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristic protected by law.