Data Center Technician Education and Training

data center operations technician salary

In order to secure a position as a data technician, employers require a high school diploma and some experience. However, many employers prefer candidates have a bachelor’s degree or associate’s degree in a technical field, such as computer science or engineering, and at least one year of tech support experience. Common IT certifications such as the A+, CompTIA ServerPlus, CompTIA Network, or CCNP raise the chances of successfully obtaining a position.

 Data Center Operation Technician Salary and Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) lists the median annual wage for computer network support specialists at $63,340. According to this categorization, the lowest paid data technicians make less than $36,960. However, the highest ten percent of workers in this field earn more than $105,230.

Occupational growth for data technicians is projected to be 11 percent through 2026, which the BLS lists as faster than average among all occupations. Many large organizations are expected to continue to upgrade their hardware and software, and support staff will be needed as data networks grow more complex and data security increases in importance.

Data Center Technician Skills and Qualifications

Successful data center technicians are self-driven and work effectively with little supervision. Employers typically seek out candidates with an associate or bachelor’s degree in a technical field. They also prefer candidates who possess the following abilities:

• Hardware repair – data center technicians are hired to complete basic repair of damaged or faulty network equipment and devices
• IT computer networking – technicians are in charge of running servers, switches, routers, monitors, and computer networking
• Troubleshooting skills – performing tests to identify and fix errors in computer networks including LAN and WAN is a key component of their work
• Physical Requirements – data technicians stay on their feet, and regularly crawl, crouch, kneel, lift, and move up to 40lbs over short distances
• Inventory management – data technicians are required to maintain accurate inventory of tools, equipment, and network devices
• Communication skills – being able to explain complicated technical process in a simple to way to non-technical staff is a requirement for successful data technicians
• Technical writing skills – data technicians often develop standard operating procedures and manuals for the networks they are in charge of