Data Center Technician

Overview

Join Microsoft as a Data Center Technician, responsible for staging, setting up, hardware deployment, troubleshooting, diagnostics, and decommissioning hardware following Standard Operating Procedures. This role offers the chance to deepen knowledge of data center processes, gain mentoring experience, and engage with security and data management protocols, supporting career advancement.

Working with Microsoft's Cloud Operations & Innovation team, you’ll help maintain the infrastructure for services such as Bing, Office 365, Xbox, OneDrive, and Azure. The global data center network includes over 200 locations in 32 countries, supporting more than a billion users worldwide. Sustainability and optimization are crucial to the design and operation of these data centers.

Microsoft values a culture of respect, integrity, accountability, and inclusion, encouraging innovation, growth mindset, and collaboration.

Job Responsibilities

• Adhere to data center policies and deadlines, escalating compliance or operational issues to management.
• Complete assigned tasks efficiently, assist junior technicians, and escalate complex issues appropriately.
• Understand and apply standard processes for installation, diagnostics, troubleshooting, replacement, and decommissioning of IT hardware including cabling, network, server, and storage equipment.
• Review process change notifications to stay informed of impacts on operations, asking questions and providing feedback as needed.
• Contribute to team effectiveness by sharing information across shifts, participating in meetings, and promoting best practices.
• Complete security and data management training; comply with associated procedures and policies, including escorting vendors when required.
• Participate in safety briefings and training, comply with safety procedures, and promote workplace safety culture.
• Travel occasionally (up to 25%) to support other locations.
• Develop knowledge of cross-functional processes to enhance collaboration with internal and external stakeholders.
• Receive on-the-job training and complete required certifications relevant to job focus areas.
• Promptly communicate and escalate technical or safety incidents; participate in incident responses and onsite follow-ups.
• Execute hardware tasks including startup, shutdown, diagnostics, troubleshooting, replacement, and decommissioning using established procedures, minimizing business impact.
• Ensure proper handling and destruction of data-bearing devices.
• Verify deployment accuracy and escalate deployment standard errors as needed.
• Work in noisy, warm environments and be prepared for extended shifts of up to 12 hours including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Physical Requirements

• Occasional ladder climbing and frequent use of stairs or ramps.
• Prolonged standing and occasional lifting of up to 50 lbs (22.5 kg).
• Occasional pushing or pulling of 50-75 lbs (22.5-34 kg), possibly using assistive devices.
• Normal vision and color perception with corrective aids as applicable.

Qualifications

• Minimum: High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent with one year of experience supporting IT equipment or related tech.
• Ability to meet strict security screenings including Microsoft Cloud Background Check and Government of Canada Reliability Status screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s Degree or equivalent experience in Computer Science or related field.
• Three or more years supporting IT hardware or related technology.
• Two or more years working in a mission-critical, 24/7 data center environment.
• Relevant certifications such as CompTIA (A+, Server+, Network+), Basic Structure Cabling, Data Center Foundation Certification, Microsoft Certified Professional, or Vendor-specific network certifications.

Additional Information

The role includes travel up to 25% of the time. Employees work within safety protocols and a culture emphasizing diversity and inclusion. Salary ranges from CAD 59,700 to CAD 119,600 annually depending on level.

Equal Opportunity Employer Statement

Microsoft ensures all qualified candidates receive employment consideration irrespective of protected characteristics. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request.