Why Data Centres Are Becoming a Magnet for Young Talent

Young professionals are being presented with the opportunity to be part of a lucrative and rapidly-evolving sector.

In our 2025 Data Centre Salary Survey, 1,500 people from around the world shared their compensation packages and feelings towards the sector. A quarter of them were under 35, giving us a strong view of what it’s like to build a career in this space as part of the next generation.

These young professionals aren’t confined to one corner of the industry. They’re working across disciplines like BIM, commissioning, construction management, engineering, design, project management, quality, sales, and many more.

Most are in mid-level positions (57%), but what really stands out is how many have already stepped up into senior roles – nearly a third (32%). That kind of progression at such an early stage speaks volumes about the pace of growth and opportunity this industry offers.

So, what makes (or should make) the data centre sector so magnetic for young people?

Big salaries, bigger progression 

Starting salaries are strong across the board. For those aged 18–24, the average salary is around £64k, and that rises quickly to £97k for 25–34-year-olds. Even within the youngest age group we studied, some are already stepping into senior roles with salaries averaging £83k.

Progression moves quickly too. One in five professionals with just 1–5 years’ experience is already in a senior position. That’s not something you see in many other industries, and it shows how fast careers can develop in this space when the potential is recognised and supported.

Careers in the fast lane

Career moves are part of the journey.

28% of young professionals changed companies in the last year. Another 41% plan to move within the next 12 months. While that might raise questions about retention, it’s just as much a sign of the demand for their skills – and the appetite for fresh challenges and faster growth.

Put simply, these moves are often about ambition, not restlessness.

Happy, but hungry for more

When it comes to compensation, young professionals are broadly satisfied, though there’s still room for improvement. 

• Base pay: 3.6 out of 5 
• Benefits: 3.4 out of 5 
• Bonuses: 3.1 out of 5 

Bonuses scored lowest, and that might be down to how targets are set and communicated. People want clarity. They want to know what success looks like and how it’s rewarded. 

But pay isn’t everything. Many young professionals are just as motivated by career progression, variety in their roles, and being part of a future-focused industry that’s truly going somewhere. 

The industry advantage

Almost half (49%) of young professionals say data centre salaries are more competitive than what they’d get elsewhere. 

That tells us something important: this industry isn’t just seen as financially rewarding. It’s seen as a place where careers can thrive. Where progress happens quickly. Where young people can step into big roles and make a real impact. 

Richard Irwin, Co-Founder of GeN+1, a community of young people in the data centre sector, said “we’ve always believed the data centre sector offers unmatched opportunities for young people, and this research proves it. With strong salaries, rapid progression, and such a breadth of roles, it’s no surprise that the next generation is making their mark so quickly. The challenge for employers is not just attracting this talent, but creating the transparent, flexible environments that will retain them. Young professionals aren’t only motivated by pay – they’re driven by progression, variety, and the chance to work in a sector that is truly future-facing.” 

What this means for young professionals

If you’re already working in the data centre space, the picture is a positive one. You can move up quickly, take on meaningful responsibility early, and earn a salary that often outpaces what your peers are making in other sectors. 

It’s also an industry that’s full of movement – between companies, between roles, and even between countries – which means there’s real potential to shape your own path and keep growing. 

That said, the data also makes one thing clear: being proactive matters. Asking questions and looking for employers who are open about how progression works, can make a big difference. This is a fast-paced industry, and the more you lean into the opportunities, the more it gives back. 

Are you a young professional looking for your next role in the data centre industry? Submit your CV today and take the next step in your career. 

What this means for employers

There’s a lot to be optimistic about here. The data shows this industry is offering young professionals what they want: strong starting salaries, quick progression, and a clear sense of purpose. 

But it also shows where there’s room to improve – especially around bonuses, benefits, and making sure people know what they need to do to progress. 

If we want to attract and keep the next generation of talent, we need to think beyond pay. Transparent bonus schemes, flexible benefits, and clear, honest career conversations can make all the difference. 

These aren’t just ‘nice to haves’. They’re the things that help young people stay, grow and lead. 

Download the full report to see all the data and dive deeper into the insights.