Data Center Architect

Role :- Data Center Architect

Location :- Durham, NC(Onsite)

Job Description:

Role Overview, Responsibilities, Qualifications, and Skills

Position Summary

• A Data Center Architect is responsible for designing, planning, and overseeing the implementation of data center infrastructure to ensure optimal performance, scalability, security, and reliability. This role involves working closely with stakeholders, including IT leadership, network engineers, facilities managers, and vendors, to create robust solutions that support organizational objectives and future growth.

Key Responsibilities

Design and Planning:

• Develop comprehensive data center architectures, including physical layouts, power and cooling requirements, network topology, and storage solutions. Create detailed blueprints and specifications for new builds or upgrades.

Infrastructure Management:

• Oversee the selection, deployment, and integration of hardware (servers, storage, networking equipment) and software platforms. Ensure compatibility and scalability with existing systems.

Capacity and Performance Planning:

• Assess current and future requirements to ensure the data center can handle projected workloads. Plan for expansion, upgrades, and resource allocation.

Security and Compliance:

• Implement best practices for physical and digital security. Ensure compliance with relevant standards (e.g., ISO, PCI-DSS) and regulatory requirements.

Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity:

• Design and implement strategies for backup, failover, and recovery to minimize downtime and protect critical data.

Vendor Management:

• Evaluate and manage relationships with vendors and service providers. Negotiate contracts and oversee procurement processes.

Documentation and Reporting:

• Maintain detailed documentation of architecture, configurations, and operational procedures. Provide regular reports to management on performance, capacity, and risks.

Collaboration and Leadership:

• Work cross-functionally with IT, facilities, and business teams. Lead technical discussions and provide guidance to engineers and technicians.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Electrical Engineering, or a related field (Master s preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in data center design, management, or related IT infrastructure roles.
• Certifications such as Cisco CCNA/CCNP, CompTIA Data Center, Uptime Institute Accredited Tier Designer, or similar are highly desirable.
• Core Skills and Competencies
• Deep knowledge of data center technologies, including networking, virtualization, storage, power, and cooling systems.
• Experience with cloud integration and hybrid architectures (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud).
• Strong understanding of security protocols and compliance frameworks.
• Excellent project management and organizational skills.
• Analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Typical Work Environment

• Data Center Architects typically work in office environments but may spend time in data centers for site assessments, installations, and maintenance. They may be required to work outside standard business hours to support critical operations or respond to emergencies.

Career Path and Advancement

• Data Center Architects can progress to senior technical leadership roles, such as Data Center Manager, IT Infrastructure Director, or Chief Technology Officer, depending on their experience and organizational needs.