Data Center Validator

Junior Data Center Validator *Location:* IAD Region – Ashburn, Dulles & Manassas, VA *Pay:* Up to *$27/hr*, based on experience *Employment Type:* Full-Time, Contract-to-Hire *Contract-to-Hire Period:* Approximately 1,040 hours *Openings:* 20–30 *Start Date:* ASAP 12 hour shifts, 6 days a week!!! \*\*\*\*\*\*\*\* Please don't miss this part, this is non- negotiable *Travel:* Regional travel required; future travel to other markets may be available Position Overview Tek One Solutions is seeking *Junior Data Center Validators* to support network and fiber infrastructure validation inside active hyperscale data center environments throughout Northern Virginia. This is *not a traditional cable-pulling position*. The role is focused on *validation, testing, troubleshooting, documentation, and identifying discrepancies between network design documentation and the physical infrastructure installed in the data center*. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is technically curious, comfortable with computers, and naturally good at *problem-solving and pattern recognition*. Previous data center experience is helpful, but we are also interested in technically capable candidates from nontraditional backgrounds who demonstrate the ability to learn quickly. What You'll Be Doing * Validate network and fiber patching against project documentation and design requirements * Trace connections between switches, ports, patch panels, racks, and network equipment * Identify incorrect patching, labeling discrepancies, and other infrastructure issues * Assist with identifying and resolving *LLDP-related discrepancies* * Perform optical testing and verification using an *Optical Power Meter (OPM)* * Inspect fiber connections, rack layouts, patch panels, ports, and labeling * Compare physical installations against spreadsheets, drawings, and system records * Document findings using *Excel spreadsheets and ticketing systems* * Create clear notes and supporting documentation for identified issues * Escalate recurring or complex discrepancies to project leadership * Move between the data center floor and computer-based validation activities throughout the shift * Follow structured validation procedures and quality-control standards * Maintain accuracy while working through large quantities of network and fiber infrastructure What We're Looking For Successful candidates will have: * Strong *problem-solving and analytical skills* * Excellent attention to detail * Strong pattern-recognition abilities * Comfort working with computers, spreadsheets, and software-based tools * Ability to follow detailed technical processes * Ability to recognize when physical infrastructure does not match documentation * Curiosity and a desire to understand how systems and networks work * Ability to work independently after completing training * Strong reliability and attendance * Ability to communicate technical findings clearly * Willingness to work in a fast-paced, mission-critical data center environment Preferred Technical Experience Previous experience with any of the following is highly valuable: * Data center infrastructure * Fiber optic cabling * Structured cabling * Network support * Fiber testing * Optical Power Meters (OPM) * Copper or fiber testing equipment * Network switches and ports * Patch panels * Fiber patching * LLDP * Excel * Ticketing systems * Data center racks and cabinets * Infrastructure documentation and validation Candidates do *not* need to be senior network engineers. We are looking for individuals who have the technical aptitude to learn the environment and become increasingly proficient with validation and troubleshooting. Schedule Requirements This is a *24/7 data center operation*. Available shifts include: * *Day Shift:* 6:00 AM–6:30 PM * *Night Shift:* 6:30 PM–6:00 AM Candidates *must be willing and able to work six 12-hour shifts regularly when project demand requires it*. Dependability and schedule commitment are extremely important for this position. Travel Requirements Most work will initially take place throughout the *Ashburn, Dulles, and Manassas, Virginia data center market*. Candidates must be open to traveling between project locations within the IAD region. Opportunities may also arise to support projects in other major data center markets. Required Tools & PPE Technicians will be provided with most required PPE and project equipment. Candidates are responsible for providing: * *Optical Power Meter (OPM)* * *Class C Type II hard hat*, or approved hard hat with visor and chin strap * *Steel-toe or composite-toe work boots* A personal *laptop or tablet is helpful but not required*. Interview & Onboarding Process Qualified candidates can expect: * Initial recruiter phone screening * Technical video interview * Final project-team interview * Background screening and drug screening * Project onboarding and deployment Candidates selected for the opportunity must complete all required pre-employment screening within the established onboarding timeframe. Contract-to-Hire Opportunity This position is structured as a *contract-to-hire opportunity*, with conversion eligibility after approximately *1,040 hours*. Employees who successfully convert to a direct position may become eligible for benefits including: * *15 days of PTO* * *10 paid company holidays* * *401(k) with 3% company match after 90 days* * Medical insurance * Dental insurance * Vision insurance * HSA-compatible healthcare plan options This is an excellent opportunity for someone who wants to move beyond basic installation work and build a career on the *technical, analytical, and network-validation side of hyperscale data center infrastructure*. #tekone Pay: $22.00 - $27.00 per hour Application Question(s): * Are you comfortable working lots of overtime? Willingness to travel: * 50% (Preferred) Work Location: In person