Laboratory Technician

Job Description: Data Center TechnicianLocation: Austin, TX Role SummaryThe Data Center Technician is responsible for the hands-on installation, maintenance, monitoring, and support of data center infrastructure. This role ensures the reliable operation of servers, storage systems, networking equipment, and associated facilities while supporting internal teams through rapid troubleshooting and on-site “smart hands” assistance. The technician plays a critical role in maintaining uptime, security, and operational excellence within the data center environment.Key Responsibilities:Hardware ManagementRack, stack, install, configure, decommission, and replace servers, storage systems, and network equipment (routers, switches, firewalls).Perform hardware diagnostics and component-level replacements (drives, memory, power supplies, NICs).Ensure equipment is installed according to data center standards and best practices.Cabling & InfrastructureInstall, label, document, test, and maintain fiber and copper cabling.Manage structured cabling systems to support scalability, organization, and airflow optimization.Troubleshoot cabling issues to quickly restore connectivity.Troubleshooting & Technical SupportDiagnose and resolve hardware, operating system, application, and network connectivity issues.Act as on-site “smart hands” support for remote engineering, networking, and systems teams.Assist vendors and partners with equipment installation, troubleshooting, and maintenance activities.Monitoring & Incident ResponseMonitor infrastructure health and performance using DCIM, Service Management (e.g., SNOW), and alerting systems.Respond to alerts, incidents, and service requests within defined SLAs.Participate in incident response, root cause analysis, and remediation efforts.Documentation & Asset ManagementMaintain accurate asset inventory records and system documentation.Update incident logs, change records, and configuration details as required.Follow established documentation, change management, and audit processes.Security & ComplianceEnforce physical security protocols and access control procedures.Follow data center security policies to protect equipment, data, and infrastructure.Support compliance requirements and audits as needed.Facilities SupportAssist with power provisioning, equipment cabling to PDUs, and rack layout planning.Monitor environmental conditions including temperature, humidity, and airflow.Coordinate with facilities teams on basic infrastructure and environmental issues.Required Skills & Qualifications:Technical SkillsStrong understanding of server, storage, and networking hardware.Familiarity with operating systems, basic networking concepts, and troubleshooting methodologies.Experience working in data center or mission-critical environments preferred.Core CompetenciesProblem-Solving: Ability to diagnose and resolve issues quickly to minimize downtime.Attention to Detail: High degree of accuracy when handling equipment, cabling, documentation, and procedures.Communication: Effectively communicate with team members, engineers, vendors, and stakeholders.Hands-On Ability: Comfortable performing physical work in a data center environment.Continuous Learning: Willingness to stay current with evolving technologies, tools, and best practices.Physical & Work RequirementsAbility to lift, move, and install equipment weighing up to 50 lbs.Ability to stand, kneel, bend, work on a ladder and work in confined spaces for extended periods.May require shift work, on-call rotation, or occasional extended hours based on operational needs.Preferred QualificationsPrior experience in enterprise or colocation data center environments.Familiarity with DCIM tools, ticketing systems (e.g., ServiceNow), and monitoring platforms.Relevant technical certifications (e.g., CompTIA A+/Network+, vendor hardware certifications).