A common criticism we often hear about data centers is that they take away jobs. While this is partly true, data centers also create new jobs. A good example of this is the role of a data engineer. Data centers can’t function without them, so it’s a very important profession. But what exactly does a data engineer do? We’ll tell you in this article!
Electrical Engineering in a Data Center
The role of a data center engineer involves a variety of tasks across different areas. The electrical engineering aspect of the role primarily involves inspecting and maintaining the infrastructure that supports the equipment within a data center. This includes cooling and power systems, as well as fire prevention, surveillance, and advanced access control systems. To keep a data center running, it is important that all this equipment is properly maintained. Tasks you perform as a data center engineer include installing cable trays, setting up racks, and maintaining electrical systems. Finally, you conduct periodic testing to ensure that the backup systems function as intended in the event of an outage or malfunction.
The IT side of the job as a data center engineer
In addition to the electrical engineering aspect, the role of a data center engineer also involves an IT component. In this role, you’ll be working with a data center’s server infrastructure, network systems, and storage. The data center engineer is responsible for installing, configuring, and maintaining the hardware within the data center. You’ll spend a significant amount of time working on the network infrastructure of a data center, such as fiber-optic cabling. So, in addition to hardware, you’ll also be working extensively with software. This includes tasks such as implementing cybersecurity solutions or setting up robust firewalls. Your responsibilities often overlap somewhat with those of a Linux engineer!
As a data center engineer, you don't just work during the day
No matter which path you choose, as a data center engineer, you won’t just be working during the day. A data center operates 24/7, so you may be called upon 24/7 as well. After all, a malfunction or outage can occur at night or on the weekend, so in many cases you’ll need to be available. If you have a strong 9-to-5 mindset, then this isn’t really the job for you. You will most likely work in shifts or be on standby on weekends and at night. If a report of a malfunction comes in, it is your responsibility to analyze the report and, if possible, provide a solution. So it’s important that you can stay calm when the pressure is on. The upside of the irregular hours, however, is that you’ll receive extra pay for working or being on call on weekends and at night.
What else do you do as a data center engineer?
We’ve now covered all the main responsibilities you’ll be handling, but of course there’s more to this role than that. You’ll be in frequent contact with suppliers and customers who are experiencing issues. So it’s also important that you’re customer-focused and have strong communication skills. Finally, you’ll be working closely with colleagues and external partners, so it helps if you enjoy working in a team 😉