Critical Facilities Tech

GENERAL DESCRIPTION / PRIMARY PURPOSE

The Critical Facility Technician (CFT) is a specialized role responsible for maintaining the uninterrupted operation of mission-critical facilities like data centers. They ensure that heavy mechanical and electrical infrastructure-such as power generators, cooling systems, and switchgears-runs efficiently to prevent equipment downtime.

 

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS/DUTIES OF THE POSITION

• Infrastructure Maintenance: Perform preventative, predictive, and corrective maintenance on electrical, mechanical, and HVAC systems.
• Understand the function, purpose, nominal operating parameters, and how to operate/isolate and start up: MV/LV Distribution Boards, MV/LV Breakers, UPS, Generator, Batteries, STS, ATS, AHU, Chillers, Humidifiers, CRAC Units, Fuel Systems, ASCO Systems, BMS System, VESDAs and Fire Alarm System.

• Emergency Response: Act as a first responder to power outages, equipment alarms, or cooling failures to prevent system downtime.
• System Monitoring: Continuously evaluate data center conditions (temperature, humidity, power consumption) to ensure optimal performance.
• Vendor & Contractor Management: Supervise external contractors and ensure their work complies with strict security and safety standards.
• Administration & Compliance: Log data center rounds, manage ticketing queues, conduct risk and hazard analyses, and strictly adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Knowledge of BMS system platforms, like Niagara Tridium, Siemens, or Johnson Controls; can navigate the system, interpreting alarms, and able to perform controlled shutdowns/start-ups/equipment rotations.
• Any and all other duties assigned by your Supervisor/Manager/Lead

 

JOB SPECIFIC COMPETENCIES

• EXPERIENCE: Minimum of three years' experience in mission-critical environments, facility maintenance, or military technical roles required. Previous experience in data centers is preferred.

• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of critical infrastructure equipment, including Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), backup generators, switchboards, and HVAC/chiller units.

• SKILLS:
• Must have good communication skills, have the ability to read, write, speak, and understand English.
• Ability to read blueprints, building plans and schematics as required.
• Must be able to read and comply with work orders concerning service, modification, or installation of equipment.
• The ability to use a variety of power tools, hand tools, measuring and testing instruments, and meters safely.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Proficiency with CMMS software is needed for tracking and documenting work orders, repairs, and maintenance activities.
• Utilization of appropriate test equipment to perform system and equipment diagnostics.

 

• ADDITIONAL:
• Hands-on ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
• Required to work independently and with limited supervision.
• Comply with all policies, safety guidelines, and procedures; follow all contract specifications and maintain compliance.
• Must be able to maintain regular and acceptable attendance, follow directions, interact well with co-workers, understand and follow posted work rules/procedures.
• Must have a government security clearance or ability to obtain upon hire.

 

EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATION

• HS Diploma or GED required; Associates or Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field desired.
• At least one of the following is required. Both is a plus.
  • Journeyman Electrical License
  • Master HVAC Mechanic License

 

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment, while generally hazard free, may include some exposure to dust and varying temperatures. This position requires the individual to work both inside and outside, sometimes in inclement weather conditions. May require lifting up to 50 pounds with or without assistance. Constant walking and standing for extended periods of time may be required. Reaching, bending, pushing, pulling, climbing, kneeling, and balancing may be needed. Significant hand and finger dexterity is required, along with the ability to work in tight/confined spaces. In addition, the use of ladders may be required, which includes the ability to use/carry ladders, lift, and climb up to 30ft. in length.

 

WORK HOUR REQUIREMENT

This position is full time (40 hours per week) and may include some shift work including Saturdays and Sundays. Ability to work overtime as needed.

 

ESSENTIAL PERSONNEL

This position is designated as essential. This means that when the facility is faced with an institutional emergency, employees in this position may be required to remain at their work location or to report to work to protect, recover, and continue operations at the facility.