Data Center Chief Engineer, Data Center Engg Ops

Amazon
Full_timeBerwick, United States

📍 Job Overview

  • Job Title: Data Center Chief Engineer, Data Center Engg Ops
  • Company: Amazon
  • Location: Berwick, Pennsylvania, United States
  • Job Type: On-site
  • Category: Server Administration, Data Center Management
  • Date Posted: 2025-06-19
  • Experience Level: 5-10 years
  • Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

  • Key Responsibilities: Oversee day-to-day operations and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment in a data center. Operate independently with limited direct management. Act as an escalation point for all facilities-related issues within the data center. Perform root cause analysis of equipment failures. Troubleshoot and report of facility and data server-level events within internal SLA. Create and deploy new standard practices for Engineering Operations Technicians, Chief Engineers, and vendor support teams. Provide training and guidance to Engineering Operations Technicians. Ensure all safety and security procedures are adhered to by vendor and Amazon staff. Utilize internal CMMS to manage building workflows. Communicate complex technical information to a non-technical audience. Regularly utilize Microsoft Office suite and other computer programs.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires a high level of technical expertise and independence, with a focus on maintaining critical data center infrastructure and driving operational excellence.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

  • Data Center Operations & Maintenance: Oversee the day-to-day operations and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment in a data center. Ensure that all electrical, mechanical, and fire/life safety equipment within the data center is operating at peak efficiency.
  • Troubleshooting & Problem-Solving: Perform root cause analysis of equipment failures and troubleshoot facility and data server-level events within internal SLA. Regularly troubleshoot and resolve emergent issues.
  • Project Management: Manage small-to-medium large impact projects from conception to completion. These projects can involve large amounts of independent work as well as collaboration with external support groups.
  • Training & Mentorship: Direct, train, and support Engineering Operations Technicians (EOTs) in their role of providing hands-on electrical and mechanical equipment troubleshooting and operations. Implement and execute site/equipment-specific training exercises.
  • Safety & Security: Ensure that all safety and security procedures are adhered to by vendor and Amazon staff. Maintain first-class customer service to the teams and groups within the data centers.
  • Communication & Collaboration: Communicate complex technical information to a non-technical audience. Collaborate with onsite EOTs and third-party vendors to ensure optimal data center performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role requires strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Relevant associates or bachelor's degree in an applicable engineering field or mechanical/electrical trades.

Experience: At least 5 years of relevant experience with mechanical and electrical systems, along with 2 years of experience in a data center environment.

Required Skills:

  • Proficiency in mechanical and electrical systems
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
  • Experience with preventative maintenance and emergency response
  • Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities
  • Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and other computer programs
  • Familiarity with CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System)

Preferred Skills:

  • PMP, Lean Six Sigma, or equivalent certifications
  • Operating engineering licenses such as DC II, DC III, or equivalent
  • Stationary Engineering or Building Engineering License
  • Experience with data center-specific equipment (e.g., stand-by diesel generators, switchgear, UPSs, PDUs, AHUs, chillers, cooling towers, chemical treatment systems, pumps, motors, VFD's, and building automation systems)

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates with relevant certifications and experience in data center-specific equipment will have a competitive advantage in this role.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Demonstrate experience with mechanical and electrical systems through relevant projects or case studies.
  • Showcase problem-solving skills and ability to troubleshoot complex issues.
  • Highlight any experience with data center-specific equipment and maintenance procedures.
  • Include any relevant certifications or training in your portfolio.

Technical Documentation:

  • Document your approach to root cause analysis and troubleshooting processes.
  • Include any standard operating procedures (SOPs) or guidelines you've developed for data center maintenance.
  • Demonstrate your understanding of safety and security procedures through relevant documentation or case studies.

📝 Enhancement Note: A well-structured portfolio that highlights your technical expertise and problem-solving skills will be essential for success in this role.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $120,000 per year (based on regional market data for data center management roles in the United States)

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Retirement savings plan with company match
  • Generous paid time off and holiday schedule
  • Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities
  • Employee discounts on Amazon products and services
  • On-site amenities and wellness programs

Working Hours: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours. Overtime may be required during emergency situations or critical maintenance windows.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary and benefits may vary based on location, experience, and market conditions. Research regional market data and cost of living to ensure competitive compensation.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: E-commerce and cloud computing services

Company Size: Large (over 1,000,000 employees worldwide)

Founded: 1994

Team Structure:

  • Data Center Engineering Operations Team
  • Data Center Facility Manager
  • Engineering Operations Technicians (EOTs)
  • Third-party vendors and support groups

Development Methodology:

  • Lean Six Sigma principles for process improvement and project management
  • Agile methodologies for software development and deployment
  • Continuous improvement mindset for data center operations and maintenance

Company Website: Amazon.com

📝 Enhancement Note: Amazon's large size and diverse range of services offer numerous opportunities for career growth and development within the data center management field.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Data Center Chief Engineer Career Level: This role is responsible for the day-to-day operations and maintenance of mechanical and electrical equipment in a data center. The Chief Engineer serves as an expert technical resource and is expected to work independently with limited direct management.

Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Data Center Facility Manager and interacts with onsite EOTs and third-party vendors.

Technical Impact: The Chief Engineer's decisions and actions directly impact data center availability and performance, ensuring that critical infrastructure supports Amazon Web Services and maintains first-class customer service to internal teams and groups.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Technical Growth: Expand your expertise in data center-specific equipment and maintenance procedures. Pursue relevant certifications and training to enhance your skillset and advance your career.
  • Leadership Development: Demonstrate strong leadership skills and mentorship capabilities to prepare for future roles as a Data Center Facility Manager or other leadership positions within Amazon's data center management organization.
  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Collaborate with other teams and departments to gain a broader understanding of Amazon's business and identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: Career growth opportunities in data center management are abundant at Amazon, with a strong focus on technical expertise, leadership development, and cross-functional collaboration.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: On-site data center environment with limited direct management and independent work.

Office Location(s): Berwick, Pennsylvania, United States

Workspace Context:

  • Data Center Environment: Work in a data center environment with critical infrastructure, including mechanical and electrical equipment, servers, and networking components.
  • Collaborative Workspace: Collaborate with onsite EOTs and third-party vendors to ensure optimal data center performance and maintain first-class customer service to internal teams and groups.
  • On-Call Responsibilities: Be prepared to respond to emergent issues and troubleshoot problems as they arise, with a focus on minimizing downtime and maintaining data center availability.

Work Schedule: Full-time position with a standard workweek of 40 hours. Overtime may be required during emergency situations or critical maintenance windows.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site data center environment requires a strong commitment to safety and security procedures, as well as the ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

  1. Phone Screen: A brief phone call to discuss your experience and qualifications for the role.
  2. Technical Interview: A comprehensive technical interview focused on your experience with mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and troubleshooting processes. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of your problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis.
  3. On-Site Tour & Meeting: A tour of the data center and an opportunity to meet with the Data Center Facility Manager and other team members to discuss the role and company culture.
  4. Final Decision: A final decision will be made based on your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and cultural fit within the Amazon team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight your experience with mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures.
  • Include any relevant certifications or training in your portfolio.
  • Showcase your problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis through specific examples and case studies.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

  • Brush up on your knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and troubleshooting processes.
  • Prepare for scenario-based questions that focus on your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently in a data center environment.
  • Familiarize yourself with Amazon's company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the role and the company's mission.

ATS Keywords: Mechanical Systems, Electrical Systems, Fire Safety, Preventative Maintenance, Troubleshooting, Project Management, Training, Safety Procedures, Security Procedures, Communication, CMMS, Microsoft Office, Mentorship, Collaboration, Innovation, Resiliency, Data Center, Server Administration, Infrastructure Management

📝 Enhancement Note: Tailor your resume and portfolio to highlight relevant skills and experience for the Data Center Chief Engineer role at Amazon. Focus on your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and ability to work independently in a data center environment.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Data Center Infrastructure:

  • Mechanical Systems: Air Handling Units (AHUs), chillers, cooling towers, chemical treatment systems, pumps, motors, and VFD's
  • Electrical Systems: Stand-by diesel generators, switchgear, UPSs, PDUs, and building automation systems
  • Server Infrastructure: Critical servers, networking components, and storage systems that support Amazon Web Services

Data Center Management Tools:

  • CMMS (Computerized Maintenance Management System) for managing building workflows and tracking maintenance activities
  • Microsoft Office suite for communication, collaboration, and project management
  • Other computer programs and dashboards for scheduling, ticketing, and mentorship

📝 Enhancement Note: Familiarize yourself with the specific data center infrastructure and management tools used by Amazon to ensure a smooth transition into the role.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Data Center Management Values:

  • Safety First: Prioritize safety and security procedures in all data center operations and maintenance activities.
  • Customer Obsessed: Maintain first-class customer service to internal teams and groups within the data center.
  • Invent and Simplify: Continuously seek opportunities for process improvement and innovation in data center management.
  • Learn and Be Curious: Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in data center management and maintenance.
  • Hire and Develop the Best: Attract and retain top talent in data center management, fostering a culture of learning and growth.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with other teams and departments to ensure optimal data center performance and maintain first-class customer service to internal teams and groups.
  • Code Review Culture: Collaborate with onsite EOTs and third-party vendors to ensure that data center maintenance and troubleshooting processes follow best practices and industry standards.
  • Knowledge Sharing: Share your expertise and experience with other team members to foster a culture of learning and growth within the data center management organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Amazon's data center management team values safety, customer obsession, innovation, continuous learning, and collaboration. Demonstrate your alignment with these values throughout the application and interview process.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

  • Equipment Failure: Troubleshoot and resolve emergent issues with mechanical and electrical equipment in a data center environment, with a focus on minimizing downtime and maintaining data center availability.
  • System Optimization: Identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation in data center management and maintenance, with a focus on driving operational excellence and reducing costs.
  • Emergency Response: Respond to emergent issues and troubleshoot problems as they arise, with a focus on minimizing downtime and maintaining data center availability.
  • Project Management: Manage small-to-medium large impact projects from conception to completion, with a focus on driving innovation and resiliency while reducing operational costs in the facilities.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Technical Skill Development: Expand your expertise in mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and troubleshooting processes through relevant certifications and training.
  • Leadership Development: Demonstrate strong leadership skills and mentorship capabilities to prepare for future roles as a Data Center Facility Manager or other leadership positions within Amazon's data center management organization.
  • Industry Trends: Stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in data center management and maintenance, attending conferences, workshops, and other professional development opportunities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Data center management at Amazon presents a unique set of technical challenges and growth opportunities, with a focus on driving operational excellence, innovation, and continuous learning.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

  • Mechanical & Electrical Systems: Describe your experience with mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures. Provide specific examples of your problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis.
  • Data Center Operations: Discuss your experience with data center operations and maintenance, including any relevant certifications or training. Explain your approach to ensuring data center availability and maintaining first-class customer service to internal teams and groups.
  • Project Management: Describe your experience with project management, including small-to-medium large impact projects from conception to completion. Explain your approach to driving innovation and resiliency while reducing operational costs in the facilities.

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Amazon's Data Center Management: Research Amazon's data center management organization and discuss how your skills and experience align with the role and the company's mission.
  • Data Center Management Best Practices: Discuss your understanding of data center management best practices, including safety, security, and operational excellence.
  • Amazon's Company Culture: Familiarize yourself with Amazon's company culture and values, and be prepared to discuss how your skills and experience align with the role and the company's mission.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Technical Deep Dive: Provide a detailed walkthrough of your experience with mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures. Highlight your problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis through specific examples and case studies.
  • Data Center Operations Overview: Present an overview of your experience with data center operations and maintenance, including any relevant certifications or training. Explain your approach to ensuring data center availability and maintaining first-class customer service to internal teams and groups.
  • Project Management Summary: Summarize your experience with project management, including small-to-medium large impact projects from conception to completion. Explain your approach to driving innovation and resiliivity while reducing operational costs in the facilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: Prepare for a comprehensive technical interview focused on your experience with mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures. Demonstrate your problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis through specific examples and case studies.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Data Center Chief Engineer position at Amazon:

  1. Submit Your Application: Click the "Apply" button on the job listing to submit your resume and portfolio.
  2. Tailor Your Portfolio: Highlight your experience with mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures. Include any relevant certifications or training in your portfolio.
  3. Prepare for Phone Screen: Review your experience and qualifications for the role, and be prepared to discuss your problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis.
  4. Research Amazon: Familiarize yourself with Amazon's company culture, data center management organization, and values. Prepare for questions about your alignment with the role and the company's mission.
  5. Prepare for Technical Interview: Brush up on your knowledge of mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and troubleshooting processes. Prepare for scenario-based questions that focus on your problem-solving skills and ability to work independently in a data center environment.
  6. Prepare for On-Site Tour & Meeting: Plan to tour the data center and meet with the Data Center Facility Manager and other team members to discuss the role and company culture. Be prepared to ask questions about the team, the data center environment, and the company's data center management organization.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and data center management industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with Amazon's hiring organization before making application decisions.


Content Guidelines (IMPORTANT: Do not include this in the output)

Data Center Management-Specific Focus:

  • Tailor every section specifically to data center management, with a focus on mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures.
  • Include data center management methodologies, preventative maintenance, and troubleshooting processes.
  • Emphasize data center-specific portfolio requirements, live project demonstrations, and user experience considerations.
  • Address data center management team dynamics, cross-functional collaboration with other teams and departments, and data center-specific industry trends.

Quality Standards:

  • Ensure no content overlap between sections - each section must contain unique information.
  • Only include Enhancement Notes when making significant inferences about data center management processes, equipment maintenance, or team structure.
  • Be comprehensive but concise, prioritizing actionable information over descriptive text.
  • Strategically distribute data center management and server administration-related keywords throughout all sections naturally.
  • Provide realistic salary ranges based on location, experience level, and data center management specialization.

Industry Expertise:

  • Include specific data center-specific equipment, server infrastructure, and management tools relevant to the role.
  • Address data center management career progression paths and technical leadership opportunities within the organization.
  • Provide tactical advice for data center portfolio development, live demonstrations, and project case studies.
  • Include data center management-specific interview preparation and coding challenge guidance.
  • Emphasize safety, security, and operational excellence principles in data center management.

Professional Standards:

  • Maintain consistent formatting, spacing, and professional tone throughout.
  • Use data center management and server administration industry terminology appropriately and accurately.
  • Include comprehensive benefits and growth opportunities relevant to data center management professionals.
  • Provide actionable insights that give data center management candidates a competitive advantage.
  • Focus on data center management team culture, cross-functional collaboration, and user impact measurement.

Technical Focus & Portfolio Emphasis:

  • Emphasize mechanical and electrical systems, data center-specific equipment, and maintenance procedures in the portfolio.
  • Showcase problem-solving skills and approach to root cause analysis through specific examples and case studies.
  • Highlight any experience with data center-specific equipment and maintenance procedures in the portfolio.
  • Include any relevant certifications or training in the portfolio.

Avoid:

  • Generic business jargon not relevant to data center management roles.
  • Placeholder text or incomplete sections.
  • Repetitive content across different sections.
  • Non-technical terminology unless relevant to the specific data center management role.
  • Marketing language unrelated to data center management, server administration, or user experience.

Generate comprehensive, data center management-focused content that serves as a valuable resource for data center management professionals seeking their next opportunity and preparing for technical interviews in the data center management industry.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience with mechanical and electrical systems, along with 2 years of experience in a data center. Preferred qualifications include an engineering degree and relevant certifications.