Hardware & Data Center Specialist – Department of Computer Science

Hardware & Data Center Specialist – Department of Computer Science

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years of professional experience in hardware installation, maintenance, or data center operations.
• Proficiency with racking/stacking server/network equipment and advanced cable management.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot hardware issues on desktops, laptops, and specialized electronic devices.
• Experience balancing three-phase power and understanding electrical load management.
• Basic soldering skills for electronic repairs.
• Familiarity with printer diagnostics and maintenance.
• Knowledge of or experience with CRAC units (chilled water systems) and UPS/power conditioning.
• Valid driver’s license and a clean driving record.
• Ability to operate and perform basic maintenance checks on fleet vehicles (truck and electric GEM car).
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, including documentation and vendor correspondence.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a technical team.
• Demonstrated attention to detail, with strong organizational skills to manage multiple projects.
• Proven aptitude for critical thinking and timely resolution of technical issues.
• Willingness to provide after-hours or on-call emergency support.

Responsibilities

• Rack, stack, and configure servers, network switches, and other hardware in machine rooms.
• Perform comprehensive cable management, ensuring proper labeling and documentation.
• Load-balance three-phase power, monitor/maintain UPS battery backup and power conditioning systems.
• Coordinate equipment installation, ensuring compliance with safety and organizational standards.
• Diagnose and resolve hardware issues in servers, desktops, laptops, and specialized electronics.
• Conduct repairs requiring soldering and other advanced technical skills.
• Provide emergency on-call support when needed to ensure minimal downtime.
• Address basic facility-related issues impacting machine rooms, instructional, and research facilities.
• Monitor environmental controls, including CRAC units (chilled water supply), and coordinate repairs as needed.
• Collaborate with other teams on power distribution and physical layout changes.
• Operate and maintain fleet vehicles (truck and electric GEM car), ensuring regular servicing and adherence to maintenance schedules.
• Troubleshoot and resolve printer hardware and software issues.
• Conduct regular maintenance and coordinate with vendors for parts and service.
• Maintain supply inventories and document repair activities.
• Design, prototype, and build specialized hardware solutions for unique departmental needs.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external stakeholders on custom equipment projects.
• Partner with faculty and staff to specify and document equipment needs and requirements.
• Work with external vendors to source, maintain, and evaluate hardware and component requirements.
• Stay current with industry trends to anticipate future needs and improve system performance.
• Manage project timelines and budgets as required.
• Maintain thorough documentation of hardware inventory, configurations, and changes.
• Manage related support tickets and ensure timely resolution.
• Participate in team meetings and cross-functional projects as assigned.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or related field.
• Relevant industry certifications such as CompTIA A+, Network+, or DCIM (Data Center Infrastructure Management).
• Familiarity with advanced data center design principles (cooling, cabling standards such as TIA/EIA, capacity planning).
• Hands-on experience with high-density data centers or large-scale hardware deployments.
• Exposure to virtualization technologies, server operating systems (Linux, Windows Server), or hardware monitoring tools.
• Experience with scripting or automation (for example, Python or PowerShell) for repetitive tasks.
• Track record of vendor management and procurement.
• Strong customer service orientation and ability to manage support tickets with prompt follow-up.