The new year is a great time to think about what’s next in your career. If you’re looking for an exciting challenge in a fast-paced, ever-evolving industry, data centre jobs could be your perfect match.
With the rise of cloud computing, AI, and an ever-increasing demand for data, the data centre sector has become truly critical infrastructure. However, a talent shortage in the industry presents an excellent opportunity for professionals from other fields to make the transition.
At the time of writing, the UK government’s pro-infrastructure approach is set to reap rewards for data centre developers, with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner stepping in to overturn previous planning rejections for a campus in Buckinghamshire. Across the pond, the Biden administration is drafting a plan to allow construction of data centres federal lands. Read more data centre news.
In this article, we’ll highlight five career backgrounds that can set you up for success in this growing sector, and some top tips for making the transition.
Contents
- Types of data centre jobs
- 5 career backgrounds that set you up for success in data centres
- Other data centre jobs that are often forgotten about
- First steps to transitioning into a data centre career
- Book a call
Types of data centre jobs
The data centre industry is a dynamic world with a wide range of roles, each calling for unique skills. Before we explore how different career backgrounds can open doors in this sector, let’s take a look at three main areas where you could make an impact:
1. Design and construction
In this phase of the data centre life cycle, teams are involved in planning, design, project management, building, and commissioning the data centre. Construction professionals and engineers ensure that the physical infrastructure is in place to support the critical systems that keep data centres running.
2. Operations
Once a data centre is up and running, it requires a wide range of professionals to keep it functioning day-to-day. This includes data centre jobs like network engineers, system administrators, cybersecurity specialists, and cloud engineers—all of whom play a vital part in ensuring uptime and optimal performance.
3. Facilities management
Facilities management focuses on the maintenance of the physical environment and infrastructure that supports data centre operations. This includes data centre jobs such as facilities managers, critical systems operators, security personnel, and emergency response teams, all of whom help ensure the physical and environmental integrity of the data centre.
“I always say that one of the best things about the data centre sector is the variety and the opportunity that it presents to people from a career aspect. You can go and work for a number of different organisations within the supply chain, or you could take a number of different roles within one organisation. You don’t get that in a lot of sectors.”
Andy Davis, Director at DataX Connect and host of the Inside Data Centre Podcast
5 career backgrounds that set you up for success in data centres
The following five career backgrounds provide a strong foundation for transitioning into the data centre sector, each bringing valuable skills that are directly applicable to various data centre jobs.
Looking for a data centre role in Europe or the US? Book a call with one of our consultants.
1. Construction and civil engineering
Professionals with a background in construction and civil engineering have experience designing and building large-scale structures, which directly translates into data centre jobs in the build phase of data centre development.
The skills required for project management, interpreting blueprints, and coordinating across multiple teams are highly relevant in constructing a data centre that can support heavy equipment and robust cooling systems.
Civil engineers also have experience working with complex regulations, ensuring compliance with building codes and safety standards, which is crucial in the data centre industry.
2. IT, software development, and telecommunications
IT professionals, software developers, and telecommunications experts are well-positioned to transition into operations roles within data centres.
These professionals understand network infrastructure, systems integration, and software/hardware management. They are equipped to handle network configuration, troubleshooting, and cybersecurity, which are essential for ensuring the security and performance of data centre networks.
With cloud computing, machine learning, and AI increasingly driving data centre innovations, professionals from this field are poised to bring valuable expertise to the table.
3. Electrical engineering
Electrical engineers are essential to the smooth functioning of data centres due to the critical nature of electrical systems.
Data centres rely on highly specialised power generation, distribution, and backup systems to maintain continuous operations. Electrical engineers are adept at managing energy efficiency, compliance with regulations, and problem-solving in high-pressure situations.
Their ability to work on high-voltage systems and future-proofing electrical infrastructure is invaluable, especially as renewable energy solutions become more integrated into data centre operations.
4. Mechanical engineering
The importance of mechanical systems in a data centre cannot be overstated. From HVAC systems to cooling technologies, mechanical engineers are essential for managing the complex infrastructure that keeps data centres running efficiently.
They are experts in energy efficiency and sustainability, constantly seeking ways to optimise operations while minimising environmental impact. With skills in airflow dynamics and critical infrastructure systems like fire and flood control, mechanical engineers play a key role in ensuring the long-term viability of data centres.
5. Logistics, supply chain, and operations management
Data centres depend on the timely delivery and installation of critical equipment. Professionals with backgrounds in logistics and supply chain management bring strong organisational and problem-solving skills that are crucial for maintaining smooth operations in a data centre.
From inventory management to capacity planning and supplier relations, these professionals ensure that the right resources are available when needed, which helps prevent costly downtime and supports scaling operations as demand increases.
Other data centre jobs that are often forgotten about
While technical roles tend to dominate the conversation around data centre jobs, there are several other crucial positions that are often overlooked:
- Legal advisors – Handling site acquisition, contract negotiations, and ensuring compliance with regulations.
- Planning and zoning experts – Securing planning permissions, conducting impact assessments, and managing land-use regulations.
- Architects – Designing the physical layout of data centres to ensure they are both functional and compliant with industry standards.
- Recruitment professionals – Sourcing skilled workers for all stages of the data centre life cycle.
- Security professionals – Ensuring physical security and cybersecurity.
- Risk management specialists – Managing risk and ensuring the resilience of data centre operations.
- Finance and investment analysts – Overseeing the financial feasibility of building and operating data centres.
- Business development managers – Developing partnerships and driving customer acquisition strategies.
First steps to transitioning into a data centre career
If you’re considering a career transition into the data centre industry, here are a few first steps to guide your journey:
- Identify your transferable skills – Take stock of the skills you’ve developed in your previous roles and how they align with data centre jobs.
- Gain knowledge of the industry – Familiarise yourself with the regulations, technologies, and practices that govern data centres. If you’re not sure where to start, try the Inside Data Centre Podcast with Andy Davis and sign up to the DC Digest: everything going on in the industry, all in one place.
- Network with data centre professionals – Join relevant forums, attend industry events, and connect with professionals in the field to gain insights and build relationships.
- Update your CV – Highlight your transferable skills and tailor your CV to the data centre industry, emphasising how your past experience adds value to this sector.
- Book a call with us – If you’re ready to explore opportunities, book a call with one of our specialist recruitment consultants. We’ll help you assess your skill set and guide you through the process of making a successful transition. Alternatively, browse our current data centre jobs.
Wherever you’re coming from, the data centre sector offers opportunities for growth, innovation, and making a real impact. Book a call with us to explore how your skills can lead you to an exciting new chapter in this growing industry.
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Inside Data Centre Podcast
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