Data-centre operations
Keeping the halls running: racks, power, cooling, and the people on shift.
Work on this bottleneck
Two-phase dielectric immersion coolant
How this is computedA posting is filed under a bottleneck when its title names one of that bottleneck’s terms, or its description names them at least twice (title only for software and business roles); its role family is the first family whose title terms its title names.Method →Code → open roles filed here · Why it binds, and who holds it
An engineered liquid that servers are submerged in, which boils to carry heat away. The main maker has left the business.
The roles it needs
Judged by Substrata, open to challenge · 2026-09-24 · not reviewed by anyone who hires for it
Materials, chemistry and metallurgy
Scientists and engineers who make, purify and characterise the materials.
Mechanical, robotics and manufacturing
Machines that move: mechanical design, robotics, controls, machining, printing metal.
Open roles
- Rack Design Engineer (Data Center)
- Data Center Infrastructure Architect
- New Product Introduction (NPI) Sourcing Manager, Data Center Power & Cooling
High-voltage cable and switchgearTwo-phase dielectric immersion coolantGrid interconnection queues
- Data Center Mechanical Engineer
- Mechanical Commissioning Lead - Memphis
- Data Center Controls Engineer
- Hardware Engineer - Liquid Cooling
What these postings ask for
Counted across the open roles above, by a published list of terms
| Named in postings | Kind | Postings | Share |
|---|---|---|---|
| PLC and industrial controls | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Python | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Bachelor’s degree asked | Credential | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| CAD (SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Creo, NX) | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Schematics and electrical troubleshooting | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| FMEA / root-cause analysis | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| High-voltage work | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| IPC soldering / workmanship | Credential | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Lean / Six Sigma | Credential | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| MATLAB / LabVIEW | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Optics and lasers | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| OSHA 10 / 30 | Credential | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Pneumatics and hydraulics | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Power-system studies (PSS/E, ETAP, PSCAD) | Skill | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
| Professional Engineer (PE) | Credential | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → | How this is computedFor each skill or credential in the published list, the number of open postings whose title or description names any of its terms.Method →Code → |
Data-centre operations: the official record
What O*NET and ESCO say the work is and needs
O*NET 49-9021.00 · ISCO 3511.1
Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers
Install or repair heating, central air conditioning, HVAC, or refrigeration systems, including oil burners, hot-air furnaces, and heating stoves.
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Core tasks
- Discuss heating or cooling system malfunctions with users to isolate problems or to verify that repairs corrected malfunctions.
- Test electrical circuits or components for continuity, using electrical test equipment.
- Repair or replace defective equipment, components, or wiring.
Most important knowledge
- Building and Construction
- Customer and Personal Service
- Mechanical
- Administration and Management
- Education and Training
Essential skills in ESCO: data centre operator
- develop contingency plans for emergencies
- database management systems
- maintain ICT server
- maintain database security
- monitor system performance
- keep up with the latest information systems solutions
- analyse ICT system
- migrate existing data
- administer ICT system
- resource description framework query language
- balance database resources
- query languages
- maintain database performance
- manage database
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
O*NET 15-1231.00
Computer Network Support Specialists
Analyze, test, troubleshoot, and evaluate existing network systems, such as local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), cloud networks, servers, and other data communications networks. Perform network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly with minimal interruption.
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed. Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Core tasks
- Back up network data.
- Configure security settings or access permissions for groups or individuals.
- Analyze and report computer network security breaches or attempted breaches.
Most important knowledge
- Computers and Electronics
- Telecommunications
- Customer and Personal Service
- Engineering and Technology
- English Language
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0)
Materials, chemistry and metallurgy: the official record
What O*NET and ESCO say the work is and needs
O*NET 19-2032.00 · ISCO 2149.9
Materials Scientists
Research and study the structures and chemical properties of various natural and synthetic or composite materials, including metals, alloys, rubber, ceramics, semiconductors, polymers, and glass. Determine ways to strengthen or combine materials or develop new materials with new or specific properties for use in a variety of products and applications. Includes glass scientists, ceramic scientists, metallurgical scientists, and polymer scientists.
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed. Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Core tasks
- Conduct research on the structures and properties of materials, such as metals, alloys, polymers, and ceramics, to obtain information that could be used to develop new products or enhance existing ones.
- Test metals to determine conformance to specifications of mechanical strength, strength-weight ratio, ductility, magnetic and electrical properties, and resistance to abrasion, corrosion, heat, and cold.
- Test material samples for tolerance under tension, compression, and shear to determine the cause of metal failures.
Most important knowledge
- Engineering and Technology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Computers and Electronics
Essential skills in ESCO: materials engineer
- approve engineering design
- test chemical samples
- create solutions to problems
- adjust engineering designs
- thermoplastic materials
- apply health and safety standards
- assess environmental impact
- develop material testing procedures
- forecast organisational risks
- composite materials
- material mechanics
- manufacturing processes
- perform scientific research
- analyse production processes for improvement
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
O*NET 17-2131.00 · ISCO 2146.5
Materials Engineers
Evaluate materials and develop machinery and processes to manufacture materials for use in products that must meet specialized design and performance specifications. Develop new uses for known materials. Includes those engineers working with composite materials or specializing in one type of material, such as graphite, metal and metal alloys, ceramics and glass, plastics and polymers, and naturally occurring materials. Includes metallurgists and metallurgical engineers, ceramic engineers, and welding engineers.
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed. Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Core tasks
- Conduct or supervise tests on raw materials or finished products to ensure their quality.
- Review new product plans, and make recommendations for material selection, based on design objectives such as strength, weight, heat resistance, electrical conductivity, and cost.
- Evaluate technical specifications and economic factors relating to process or product design objectives.
Most important knowledge
- Engineering and Technology
- Mathematics
- Production and Processing
- Physics
- English Language
Essential skills in ESCO: metallurgist
- types of metal manufacturing processes
- metal forming technologies
- precious metal processing
- non-ferrous metal processing
- assess suitability of metal types for specific application
- ferrous metal processing
- prepare technical reports
- precious metals
- work in metal manufacture teams
- types of metal
- metal and metal ore products
- manipulate metal
- join metals
- alloys of precious metals
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
O*NET 19-2031.00 · ISCO 2113.1
Chemists
Conduct qualitative and quantitative chemical analyses or experiments in laboratories for quality or process control or to develop new products or knowledge.
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed. Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Core tasks
- Develop, improve, or customize products, equipment, formulas, processes, or analytical methods.
- Analyze organic or inorganic compounds to determine chemical or physical properties, composition, structure, relationships, or reactions, using chromatography, spectroscopy, or spectrophotometry techniques.
- Induce changes in composition of substances by introducing heat, light, energy, or chemical catalysts for quantitative or qualitative analysis.
Most important knowledge
- Chemistry
- English Language
- Mathematics
- Production and Processing
- Administration and Management
Essential skills in ESCO: chemist
- write technical reports
- physics
- think analytically
- use chemical analysis equipment
- apply liquid chromatography
- analytical chemistry
- analyse chemical substances
- document analysis results
- apply scientific methods
- apply safety procedures in laboratory
- test chemical samples
- use chromatography software
- develop chemical products
- prepare chemical samples
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
Mechanical, robotics and manufacturing: the official record
What O*NET and ESCO say the work is and needs
O*NET 17-2199.08 · ISCO 2149.13
Robotics Engineers
Research, design, develop, or test robotic applications.
Job Zone Four: Considerable Preparation Needed. Most of these occupations require a four-year bachelor's degree, but some do not.
Core tasks
- Review or approve designs, calculations, or cost estimates.
- Process or interpret signals or sensor data.
- Debug robotics programs.
Most important knowledge
- Engineering and Technology
- Design
- Computers and Electronics
- Mechanical
- Mathematics
Essential skills in ESCO: robotics engineer
- perform scientific research
- mechanical engineering
- design automation components
- use technical drawing software
- approve engineering design
- assess financial viability
- robotics
- robotic components
- adjust engineering designs
- mechanics
- execute feasibility study
- technical drawings
- engineering principles
- engineering processes
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
O*NET 17-3024.01 · ISCO 3119.2.1
Robotics Technicians
Build, install, test, or maintain robotic equipment or related automated production systems.
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Core tasks
- Make repairs to robots or peripheral equipment, such as replacement of defective circuit boards, sensors, controllers, encoders, or servomotors.
- Troubleshoot robotic systems, using knowledge of microprocessors, programmable controllers, electronics, circuit analysis, mechanics, sensor or feedback systems, hydraulics, or pneumatics.
- Install, program, or repair programmable controllers, robot controllers, end-of-arm tools, or conveyors.
Most important knowledge
- Computers and Electronics
- Engineering and Technology
- Mechanical
- Design
- Mathematics
Essential skills in ESCO: robotics engineering technician
- read assembly drawings
- assemble robots
- set up machine controls
- test mechatronic units
- electronics
- assist scientific research
- mechatronics
- follow safety standards in industrial contexts
- inspect quality of products
- adjust engineering designs
- design drawings
- fasten components
- record test data
- monitor machine operations
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
O*NET 51-4041.00 · ISCO 7223.8
Machinists
Set up and operate a variety of machine tools to produce precision parts and instruments out of metal. Includes precision instrument makers who fabricate, modify, or repair mechanical instruments. May also fabricate and modify parts to make or repair machine tools or maintain industrial machines, applying knowledge of mechanics, mathematics, metal properties, layout, and machining procedures.
Job Zone Three: Medium Preparation Needed. Most occupations in this zone require training in vocational schools, related on-the-job experience, or an associate's degree.
Core tasks
- Calculate dimensions or tolerances, using instruments, such as micrometers or vernier calipers.
- Machine parts to specifications, using machine tools, such as lathes, milling machines, shapers, or grinders.
- Measure, examine, or test completed units to check for defects and ensure conformance to specifications, using precision instruments, such as micrometers.
Most important knowledge
- Mathematics
- Mechanical
- Production and Processing
- Design
- Engineering and Technology
Essential skills in ESCO: gear machinist
- consult technical resources
- mechanics
- troubleshoot
- types of metal
- remove processed workpiece
- secure working area
- supply machine with appropriate tools
- monitor automated machines
- set up the controller of a machine
- perform test run
- supply machine
O*NET 31.0 Database (US Department of Labor, CC BY 4.0) · ESCO API, European Commission
Where to train
Public programmes for these role families, each on its official page
College · Netherlands
Eerste Monteur Mechatronica bij ASML (First Mechanic Mechatronics, MBO level 3) ↗
Summa College / ASML
MBO level 3 work-based learning: 3 shift days at ASML + 1 day at Summa; EUR 2,549-2,800 gross/month, tuition reimbursed; 18+
Free vocational mechatronics programme with work in ASML cleanrooms in Veldhoven, starting September 2026.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
College · United States
Semiconductor careers pathway (Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology) ↗
Columbus State Community College
Associate degree (Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology)
Automation and process-control training approved as an education option for semiconductor jobs at Intel's Ohio fab and other chipmakers.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · United States
Master's in Microelectronics and Semiconductors (online) ↗
Purdue University
Online master's, 30 credit hours
Part of Purdue's Semiconductor Degrees Program, drawing on materials, ECE, business and polytechnic schools.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · Taiwan
College of Semiconductor Research (Master's and Ph.D.) ↗
National Tsing Hua University
Master's and Ph.D. admissions
Graduate college in Hsinchu covering semiconductor devices, design, process and materials, with industry partners.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
College · United States
Semiconductor Maintenance Technician - Technical Certificate ↗
Clark State College
Technical certificate
Hands-on training in mechanical, electrical, pneumatic, hydraulic and vacuum systems used in chip-fabrication equipment.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
College · United States
Semiconductor Maintenance Technician (SMT.S.CRT) ↗
Sinclair College
Certificate, 37 credit hours
Installing, maintaining and troubleshooting industrial machinery incl. semiconductor fab tools; includes vacuum system technology.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Apprenticeship · United States
IBEW/NECA Joint Apprenticeship (JATC/AJATC) - Outside Lineman, Inside Wireman, VDV, Residential ↗
electrical training ALLIANCE (IBEW & NECA)
On-the-job training plus classroom training; apply to local JATC
Union apprenticeships for outside linemen (transmission/distribution lines) and inside wiremen (power, controls in commercial/industrial buildings).
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · EU
SINReM - International MSc in Sustainable and Innovative Natural Resource Management ↗
EIT RawMaterials Academy (Ghent University, Uppsala University and partners)
EIT-labelled joint master's programme
Raw-materials value chain from exploration to materials use and recycling of critical resources.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · EU
EMerald Master in Georesources Engineering ↗
EIT RawMaterials Academy (University of Liège, Luleå University of Technology, University of Lorraine and partners)
EIT-labelled joint master's programme
Geometallurgy and circular-economy engineering to address Europe's raw-materials skills shortage.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · United Kingdom
Materials Science and Engineering MSc ↗
University of Birmingham
1 year full-time, 180 credits; 2:2 or above in engineering/technical subjects
Compulsory modules in advanced metallurgy and manufacturing and non-metallic materials, plus a 60-credit research project.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · United Kingdom
Materials Science and Engineering MSc ↗
University of Sheffield
1 year
Advanced metallurgy, metallurgical processing and functional materials incl. electrical transport and magnetic properties.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · United States
Metallurgical and Materials Engineering (BS, MS, PhD) ↗
Colorado School of Mines
Bachelor's, master's and doctoral programmes
Master's and doctoral specialisations in physical and mechanical metallurgy and physicochemical processing of materials.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Apprenticeship · Germany
Werkstoffprüfer/in - Fachrichtung Metalltechnik (Ausbildung) ↗
BIBB (Federal Institute for Vocational Education and Training)
Dual apprenticeship, 42 months
Materials-testing technician for steelworks, foundries and energy companies: metallography, destructive and non-destructive testing, heat treatment.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Industry academy · United States
Siemens Mechatronic Systems Certification Program (SMSCP) ↗
Siemens
Three certification levels (Assistant, Associate, Professional) via partner schools
Systems-based mechatronics troubleshooting training derived from the German dual system.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Apprenticeship · Germany
Ausbildung Mechatroniker (w/m/d) ↗
Siemens AG
3.5 years (42 months); paid (min. EUR 1,065.59 gross/month in year 1)
Mechanics, sensors, drive systems, automation and 3D printing; maintaining and optimising production systems.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Apprenticeship · United States
FAME Advanced Manufacturing Technician (AMT) program ↗
FAME USA (Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education)
Paid work/study: classes 2 days/week at a community college + at least 24 hours/week at a sponsor; earns an associate degree
Earn-and-learn advanced manufacturing / maintenance technician pathway offered in chapters across many US states.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Online · United States
SME Certified Additive Manufacturing Technician (CAMT) ↗
SME / America Makes (Manufacturing USA)
Certification exam
Credential built with America Makes covering the seven AM technologies, processes, material selection and post-processing.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Public programme · Japan · open to career changers
Polytech Center (職業能力開発促進センター) job-seeker vocational training ↗
JEED (Japan Organization for Employment of the Elderly, Persons with Disabilities and Job Seekers)
Public vocational training for job seekers and in-service workers
National public training centres focused on manufacturing (machinery, electrical, electronics) to support re-employment.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Industry academy · United States
Datacenter Academy ↗
Microsoft
Delivered through partner community colleges and vocational schools; 'Introduction to Datacenters' six-module course
Curriculum, donated datacenter labs, mentoring and work-experience opportunities at Microsoft datacenters.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
College · United States
Data Center Technician Certificate ↗
Columbus State Community College
Certificate
Hardware support, server management, data-center processes and preventative maintenance.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
University · Ireland · open to career changers
Data Centre Technician (TU5263), part-time ↗
Technological University Dublin
1 academic year, 3 evenings a week; EUR 3,000 (20 Amazon scholarships); optional 14-week paid Amazon placement
Level 6 data-centre operations course; applicants over 23 may be considered on experience; alumni include career changers from other trades.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Apprenticeship · United Kingdom
Data Centre Engineering Operations (DCEO) Apprenticeship ↗
Amazon (AWS) UK
36 months, 40-hour week; Level 4 (Electrical Power Protection and Plant Commissioning Engineer); 18+, STEM A Level/BTEC or Level 3 apprenticeship
Blended-learning apprenticeship testing and maintaining the electrical power systems that run AWS data centres.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.
Industry academy · Online
Certified Data Center Technician Professional (CDCTP) ↗
Uptime Institute
5 days; data-center work experience essential
Upskilling for working technicians: power, cooling, IT and space constraints, standards and operational procedures.
Official page checked 2026-09-24. Listed, not reviewed or endorsed.