📍 Job Overview

• Job Title: Data Center Chief Engineer
• Company: Amazon
• Location: Sterling, Virginia, United States
• Job Type: On-site
• Category: DevOps & Infrastructure
• Date Posted: 2025-06-12
• Experience Level: 5-10 years

🚀 Role Summary

• 📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a critical part of Amazon's global infrastructure, ensuring the smooth operation of data centers that support AWS services. The Chief Engineer (CE) is responsible for maintaining and managing mission-critical facilities, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and driving operational excellence.

• As a Data Center Chief Engineer, you will act as the primary escalation point for all facilities-related issues, overseeing the operation and management of critical systems, and providing training and guidance to Engineering Operations Technicians. You will also create and deploy new standard practices, assist in the build-out of new facilities, and optimize plant safety, performance, reliability, and efficiency.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

• 📝 Enhancement Note: The CE is expected to have a strong technical background in electrical and mechanical systems, with a proven track record in data center operations and a passion for learning and evolving.

• 💡 Key Responsibilities:

  • Act as the primary escalation point for all facilities-related issues, troubleshooting and resolving complex problems.
  • Oversee the operation and management of routine and emergency services on critical systems, such as switchgear, generators, UPS systems, power distribution equipment, chillers, cooling towers, computer room air handlers, building monitoring systems, etc.
  • Perform root cause analysis of equipment failures and troubleshoot facility issues within internal Service Level Agreements (SLA).
  • Provide training and guidance to Engineering Operations Technicians and work with the Facility Manager to set team culture.
  • Create and deploy new standard practices for Engineering Operations Technicians, Chief Engineers, and vendor support teams.
  • Assist in the build-out of new facilities and projects to increase current facility efficiency.
  • Work outside of normal business hours for routine maintenance and respond to out-of-hours emergency calls.
  • Communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Collaborate with IT managers and other business leaders to coordinate projects, manage capacity, and optimize plant safety, performance, reliability, and efficiency.
  • Ensure all safety procedures are adhered to by vendor and Amazon staff.
  • Establish building performance benchmarks, conduct analyses, and prepare reports on all aspects of critical facility operations and maintenance.
  • Utilize Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and other basic administrative tools to perform day-to-day tasks.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A technical degree or relevant trade school training in electrical, mechanical, or a related field is preferred.

Experience: A minimum of 4 years of experience in electrical or mechanical roles, with a focus on data center or mission-critical facilities is required. 5+ years of data center engineering experience is preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proven experience in electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting and operation.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Experience working with critical infrastructure systems, such as switchgear, generators, UPS systems, chillers, cooling towers, computer room air handlers, building monitoring systems, etc.
• Familiarity with data center operations and safety procedures.
• Ability to work independently and in a team environment.
• Experience leading a team and managing projects.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience leading a team and managing projects in a data center environment.
• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in a relevant field.
• Familiarity with AWS services and infrastructure.
• Experience with building automation systems and general facilities equipment.
• Knowledge of fire/life safety equipment.

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

• 📝 Enhancement Note: While not explicitly stated, a strong portfolio demonstrating experience in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and project management would be beneficial for this role.

• Portfolio Essentials:

  • Documented experience in data center operations, including system maintenance, troubleshooting, and project management.
  • Examples of root cause analysis and problem-solving in a data center environment.
  • Demonstrated ability to communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences.
  • Evidence of team leadership and collaboration in a data center setting.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

• 📝 Enhancement Note: Salary for this role is not explicitly stated, but based on market research, the average salary for a Data Center Chief Engineer in the United States is approximately $120,000 - $160,000 per year. Benefits may include health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks common to large corporations like Amazon.

• Salary Range: $120,000 - $160,000 per year (approximate, based on market research)

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plans
• Paid time off and holidays
• Employee discounts
• Professional development opportunities
• On-site services (gym, cafes, etc.)

Working Hours: Full-time, with on-call responsibilities for emergency maintenance and out-of-hours support.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Amazon is a multinational technology company focused on e-commerce, cloud computing, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. The company's data centers support its global operations and infrastructure.

Company Size: Amazon is a large corporation with over 1.3 million employees worldwide. As a Data Center Chief Engineer, you will work within the AWS Infrastructure Services team, which is responsible for the design, planning, delivery, and operation of all AWS global infrastructure.

Founded: Amazon was founded in 1994 and has since grown into one of the world's largest and most influential companies.

Team Structure:

• The AWS Infrastructure Services team is responsible for the design, planning, delivery, and operation of all AWS global infrastructure.
• The Data Center Engineering Operations team maintains and operates critical infrastructure systems, ensuring they are prepared to stand up against any situation.
• The team consists of front-line responders who support the operations of some of the world's most powerful data centers.

Development Methodology:

• Amazon follows Agile methodologies for software development and project management.
• The company emphasizes continuous learning, improvement, and innovation.
• Data Center Chief Engineers are expected to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices in data center operations and management.

Company Website: Amazon

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: The Data Center Chief Engineer role is a senior-level position, requiring extensive experience in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and project management. This role offers opportunities for technical leadership, mentoring, and career progression within Amazon's global infrastructure organization.

Reporting Structure: The Data Center Chief Engineer reports directly to the Facility Manager and works closely with cross-functional teams, including IT managers, business leaders, and external support groups.

Technical Impact: The Data Center Chief Engineer plays a critical role in maintaining and optimizing the performance, reliability, and efficiency of Amazon's data centers, directly impacting the user experience and availability of AWS services.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Growth: Opportunities to learn and implement new technologies, participate in projects to increase facility efficiency, and contribute to the development of new standard practices.
• Leadership Growth: Potential to mentor and train Engineering Operations Technicians, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and manage projects from conception to completion.
• Career Progression: Opportunities to advance within Amazon's global infrastructure organization, potentially moving into roles such as Senior Data Center Engineer, Data Center Manager, or other leadership positions.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Amazon's data centers are state-of-the-art facilities designed to maintain optimal operating conditions for critical infrastructure systems. The work environment is fast-paced, collaborative, and focused on continuous improvement.

Office Location(s): Sterling, Virginia, United States

Workspace Context:

• 💡 Workspace Aspect 1: Data Center Chief Engineers work in a dynamic, high-pressure environment, requiring strong problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to make critical decisions under tight deadlines.
• 💡 Workspace Aspect 2: The role involves working with a variety of critical infrastructure systems, requiring a strong technical background in electrical and mechanical systems, as well as familiarity with data center operations and safety procedures.
• 💡 Workspace Aspect 3: Data Center Chief Engineers collaborate with cross-functional teams, including Engineering Operations Technicians, Facility Managers, IT managers, business leaders, and external support groups. Effective communication and interpersonal skills are essential for success in this role.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with on-call responsibilities for emergency maintenance and out-of-hours support. The work schedule may vary depending on the specific needs of the data center and the projects at hand.

📄 Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

• 💡 Process Step 1: Phone or video screen to assess technical proficiency in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• 💡 Process Step 2: On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager and other team members to discuss the role, team dynamics, and company culture. This may include a tour of the data center or a virtual walkthrough.
• 💡 Process Step 3: Technical assessment or case study, focusing on root cause analysis, problem-solving, and project management skills.
• 💡 Process Step 4: Final interview with senior leadership to discuss career growth, long-term goals, and fit within the organization.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• 💡 Portfolio Tip 1: Highlight your experience in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and project management. Include examples of root cause analysis, problem-solving, and team leadership.
• 💡 Portfolio Tip 2: Showcase your ability to communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences. Include examples of presentations, reports, or other documentation demonstrating your communication skills.
• 💡 Portfolio Tip 3: Emphasize your experience working with critical infrastructure systems, including switchgear, generators, UPS systems, chillers, cooling towers, computer room air handlers, building monitoring systems, etc.
• 💡 Portfolio Tip 4: Include any relevant certifications, training, or professional development activities that demonstrate your commitment to continuous learning and growth in the data center operations field.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

• 💡 Challenge Preparation 1: Brush up on your knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems, data center operations, and safety procedures. Familiarize yourself with Amazon's data center infrastructure and AWS services.
• 💡 Challenge Preparation 2: Practice root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques, focusing on real-world scenarios and case studies.
• 💡 Challenge Preparation 3: Prepare for behavioral interview questions by reflecting on your past experiences in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and project management. Be ready to discuss your approach to problem-solving, team leadership, and collaboration.

ATS Keywords: (Relevant keywords for resume optimization, organized by category)

• 🔑 Programming & Scripting: Python, Bash, PowerShell
• 🔑 Web Frameworks & Libraries: N/A (not applicable to this role)
• 🔑 Server Technologies: Linux, Windows Server, VMware, AWS Services (EC2, RDS, etc.)
• 🔑 Databases: MySQL, PostgreSQL, Amazon RDS
• 🔑 Tools: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook), JIRA, Confluence, Git, Jenkins
• 🔑 Methodologies: Agile, Scrum, ITIL, PMP
• 🔑 Soft Skills: Communication, Problem-solving, Team Leadership, Adaptability, Time Management
• 🔑 Industry Terms: Data Center Operations, Electrical Systems, Mechanical Systems, Troubleshooting, Root Cause Analysis, Project Management, Facilities Management, AWS Services

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Frontend Technologies: N/A (not applicable to this role)

Backend & Server Technologies:

• 🛠 Backend Technology 1: Linux, Windows Server
• 🛠 Server Technology 2: VMware, AWS Services (EC2, RDS, etc.)
• 🛠 Infrastructure Tool 3: Data center infrastructure management (DCIM) tools, building automation systems, and general facilities equipment

Development & DevOps Tools:

• 🛠 Development Tool 1: Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, Outlook), JIRA, Confluence
• 🛠 DevOps Tool 2: Git, Jenkins
• 🛠 Monitoring Tool 3: Data center infrastructure management (DCIM) tools, building automation systems, and general facilities equipment

👥 Team Culture & Values

Web Development Values:

• 💡 Web Development Value 1: Customer obsession: Amazon is customer-centric, and the Data Center Chief Engineer role is critical to maintaining the performance, reliability, and efficiency of the data centers that support AWS services.
• 💡 Web Development Value 2: Invent and simplify: Data Center Chief Engineers are expected to continuously learn, improve, and innovate in their approach to data center operations and management.
• 💡 Web Development Value 3: Learn and be curious: The role requires a strong technical background in electrical and mechanical systems, as well as a passion for learning and staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices in data center operations.
• 💡 Web Development Value 4: Hire and develop the best: Amazon values diversity, inclusion, and continuous learning and development. The company invests in its employees, providing opportunities for growth and career progression.

Collaboration Style:

• 💡 Collaboration Approach 1: Cross-functional integration: Data Center Chief Engineers work closely with cross-functional teams, including Engineering Operations Technicians, Facility Managers, IT managers, business leaders, and external support groups.
• 💡 Collaboration Approach 2: Code review culture: The role involves working with a variety of critical infrastructure systems, requiring a strong technical background in electrical and mechanical systems, as well as familiarity with data center operations and safety procedures.
• 💡 Collaboration Approach 3: Knowledge sharing: Amazon fosters a culture of continuous learning and knowledge sharing. Data Center Chief Engineers are expected to contribute to the development of new standard practices and share their expertise with other team members.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

• 💡 Web Development Challenge 1: Maintaining the performance, reliability, and efficiency of critical infrastructure systems in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.
• 💡 Web Development Challenge 2: Troubleshooting and resolving complex problems related to electrical and mechanical systems, data center operations, and safety procedures.
• 💡 Web Development Challenge 3: Collaborating with cross-functional teams to coordinate projects, manage capacity, and optimize plant safety, performance, reliability, and efficiency.
• 💡 Web Development Challenge 4: Staying up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices in data center operations and management, as well as Amazon's global infrastructure.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• 💡 Learning Opportunity 1: Technical skill development through training, certifications, and continuous learning.
• 💡 Learning Opportunity 2: Participation in industry conferences, events, and community involvement to stay current with emerging technologies and best practices in data center operations.
• 💡 Learning Opportunity 3: Mentorship and leadership development opportunities through collaboration with cross-functional teams, project management, and technical decision-making.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

• 💡 Technical Question 1: Describe your experience with electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting and operation in a data center environment.
• 💡 Technical Question 2: How have you approached root cause analysis and problem-solving in a data center setting? Can you provide an example?
• 💡 Technical Question 3: How have you managed and led a team in a data center environment? Can you describe a challenging situation and how you handled it?

Company & Culture Questions:

• 💡 Technical Question 4: How do you stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices in data center operations and management?
• 💡 Technical Question 5: Can you describe a time when you had to communicate complex technical information to a non-technical audience? How did you approach it, and what was the outcome?
• 💡 Technical Question 6: How do you prioritize and manage your time when working on multiple projects or facing unexpected challenges in a data center environment?

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• 💡 Presentation Strategy 1: Highlight your experience in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and project management. Include examples of root cause analysis, problem-solving, and team leadership.
• 💡 Presentation Strategy 2: Showcase your ability to communicate complex technical information to non-technical audiences. Include examples of presentations, reports, or other documentation demonstrating your communication skills.
• 💡 Presentation Strategy 3: Emphasize your experience working with critical infrastructure systems, including switchgear, generators, UPS systems, chillers, cooling towers, computer room air handlers, building monitoring systems, etc.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Data Center Chief Engineer position:

1. Submit your application through the application link.
2. Customize your resume and portfolio to highlight your experience in data center operations, electrical and mechanical systems troubleshooting, and project management.
3. Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of electrical and mechanical systems, data center operations, and safety procedures. Practice root cause analysis and problem-solving techniques, focusing on real-world scenarios and case studies.
4. Research Amazon's data center infrastructure and AWS services to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its global infrastructure.

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