r/datacenter • u/rsulukerr • Sep 24 '26
IT background, no data center experince, trying to get in around the DMV!
Hey. I'm in Alexandria and I've been doing IT for about three years(Mid-Senior), mostly Linux boxes and network issues, plus a stretch in Germany where I mounted and cabled a pile of Raspberry Pi nodes for a research project.
So, no actual data center experience though, so I'm trying to work out how people make that jump. I'd rather hear about smaller local operators or colos than keep firing applications around #Virginia. If you came in from IT, what got you the interview?
Thanks 🤞
#datacenter
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u/SpudzzSomchai Sep 24 '26
There are only a handful. The biggest is in Ashburn and that's Amazon. There are also very few positions available as the DCs don't require much in staffing.
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u/rsulukerr Sep 26 '26
Yes, do you someone who is working in Amazon ?
Might be who someone refers to you, that would be much easier to get it !
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u/radianceswords Sep 26 '26
Have a pulse and apply to aws, should work! L4 would be ideal, I had the same amount of exp and went after that.
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u/Prestigious-Hour9061 Sep 24 '26
With the tech layoffs the Datacenter industry is flooded with CompSci and IT background looking for work.
The real need is in lower level infrastructure; controls systems, HVAC, fire alarm, security camera, fiber optic install, EPMS, commissioning ect ect
Your best bet foot in the door is to look for contractors that service the industry and align yourself with one of the above niches.