This role involves deploying, maintaining, and scaling physical server, network, and cabling infrastructure in production data centers. Responsibilities include hardware troubleshooting, component repair, managing operational tickets, and coordinating with engineering teams and third-party technicians. The position requires at least 5 years of data center experience and proficiency with Linux command-line and out-of-band management tools.
Role
We are looking for a Sr. Data Center Operations (DCO) Engineer to join our Cloud Operations team. This is a remote role in Houston, TX, reporting to the Director of Network Infrastructure in the Network Infrastructure department. In this role, you will be instrumental in deploying, maintaining, and scaling the critical physical server, network, and cabling infrastructure powering our global production data center environments.
What you’ll do (Role Expectations)
- Execute physical rack-and-stack deployments, structured cabling, and infrastructure lifecycle management across production data centers
- Triage, troubleshoot, and remediate hardware and network faults while repairing or replacing failing components
- Manage and resolve operational ticket queues, driving scheduled corrective maintenance and break/fix activities
- Coordinate and partner with engineering teams, system owners, and third-party Remote Hands technicians to validate installations
- Maintain comprehensive asset tracking documentation and support up to 50% domestic and international travel
Who You Are (Success Profile)
- You are a disciplined infrastructure specialist committed to maintaining pristine, highly available production data center environments.
- You are an adept problem-solver who excels at diagnosing and resolving complex physical hardware and network connectivity issues.
- You are a proactive collaborator skilled at directing third-party remote hands and cross-functional engineering partners.
- You are detail-oriented and take pride in precise documentation, structured cable plants, and operational rigor.
- You are adaptable and energized by hands-on technical fieldwork, balancing travel requirements with dynamic operational demands.
What We’re Looking for (Minimum Qualifications)
- Experience leveraging modern AI tools, automation, or scripting to streamline data center operational workflows and diagnostics
- 5 or more years of experience working within production data center environments, with a proven track record engaging and directing remote data center vendors
- U.S. citizenship, required due to the nature of the customers assigned to this role
- Deep technical understanding of diverse server platforms, network hardware, optics, fiber plants, and copper cabling
- Proficient with Linux/Unix command-line interfaces, BIOS configurations, and out-of-band management tools such as iLO, iDRAC, and IPMI
- Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds repeatedly and regularly in support of physical infrastructure deployments
What Will Make You Stand Out (Preferred Qualifications)
- Experience applying AI-assisted engineering tools and workflows to system diagnostics, infrastructure automation, documentation, or operational reliability
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally up to 50%
- Various health plans
- Time off plans for vacation and sick time
- Parental leave options
- Retirement options
- Education reimbursement
- In-office perks, and more!
Zscaler complies with all applicable federal, state, and local pay transparency rules.
Zscaler is committed to providing reasonable support (called accommodations or adjustments) in our recruiting processes for candidates who are differently abled, have long term conditions, mental health conditions or sincerely held religious beliefs, or who are neurodivergent or require pregnancy-related support.