Data Center Engineer - Ashburn, VA

Join a fast-paced Systems Engineering team as a Staff Data Center Engineer, where you’ll play a hands-on role in keeping large-scale co-location data center operations running smoothly. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who enjoys working directly with server and network hardware, solving complex technical issues, and contributing to the uptime and performance of mission-critical services.

Responsibilities

• Install, rack, cable, and provision servers, switches, PDUs, and console equipment in data center environments.
• Perform initial system setup following standard procedures, including BIOS configuration, PXE operating system installs, and DNS updates.
• Troubleshoot hardware issues, document root cause findings, and prepare detailed RCA reports.
• Support the retirement of aging equipment and help deploy replacement hardware.
• Open and manage vendor RMA tickets as needed to resolve equipment issues.
• Maintain accurate inventory records across multiple data center locations.
• Follow best practices for data center operations, including cabling, power balancing, and equipment organization.
• Track and update assigned tasks and issues in the internal ticketing system in a timely manner.
• Participate in a 24/7/365 on-call rotation and support shifting priorities in a fast-moving environment.
• Travel up to 15% as needed.

Skills

• At least 4 years of data center-related experience, including 2+ years of hands-on experience in an enterprise-scale environment.
• Strong knowledge of x86 server hardware, including configuration, troubleshooting, and certification.
• Hands-on experience with BIOS and BMC configuration on x86 systems.
• Working knowledge of Linux and the network stack.
• Familiarity with common cabling standards and media types, including MMF, SMF, LC/MTP, and CAT6.
• Ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with a technical operations team.
• Strong time management, prioritization, and multitasking skills.
• Comfort working in a hands-on environment with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.

Preferred Skills

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Industry certifications such as A+, Server+, RHCSA, CCNA, or similar credentials.
• Experience using version control tools such as Git or Bitbucket.
• Background supporting large-scale build-outs or datacenter expansion projects.
• Experience documenting technical findings and remediation steps clearly and thoroughly.

Horizontal is committed to fostering an inclusive and welcoming environment where people of all backgrounds can succeed. We value diversity, equity, and inclusion as essential to building strong teams and better outcomes, and we encourage qualified candidates to apply.

By applying for this position, you acknowledge and agree that Horizontal Talent may contact you regarding your application using automated technology, including phone calls, SMS/text messages, or email, which may be delivered by our virtual AI recruiter, Alex.

Please apply through this online posting or by visiting our Job Board at www.horizontaltalent.com/job-board. Applications will be accepted for 4 weeks. For those that join the team, we offer competitive compensation and benefits including medical, dental, vision, and retirement. Check out all we have to offer and how you can become part of the Horizontal Talent Team. The pay range for this role is $40 - $77 per hour based on qualifications and experience.