Datacenter Networking Technician, AI Compute Deployment - Stargate
Other
Excel
WFA Digital Insight
As demand for AI infrastructure specialists grows, OpenAI is at the forefront with its Stargate program. With the AI market projected to reach
90 billion by 2025, professionals with expertise in datacenter networking are in high demand. This role stands out for its focus on building and deploying massive, state-of-the-art data center campuses. Candidates should be prepared to demonstrate their experience in large-scale datacenter network deployment and structured cabling, as well as their ability to adapt to emerging networking technologies. Before applying, consider the requirements for travel and the need for deep knowledge of fiber/copper plant design and hyperscale network best practices.
Job Description
About the Role
The Datacenter Networking Technician role is a critical part of OpenAI's Stargate program, which aims to build the world's most advanced AI infrastructure ecosystem. As a technician in this program, you will be responsible for the physical deployment of network infrastructure at large partner-operated campuses, ensuring that the infrastructure meets the required performance and reliability targets. Your work will involve collaborating with internal engineers and external contractors on design reviews, installation plans, and acceptance criteria.The Stargate program is a fast-moving and dynamic environment, and as a Datacenter Networking Technician, you will need to be able to thrive in this setting. You will spend significant time on the data-center floor, performing inspections, assisting with cable routing and termination, conducting fiber testing, and resolving installation challenges in real-time.
As the campus reaches steady state, you will transition to leading network deployment for future OpenAI data center projects, defining standards and guiding implementation across multiple locations. This will require you to develop repeatable engineering standards, as-built documentation, and deployment playbooks to accelerate future OpenAI campuses.
What You Will Do
- Serve as OpenAI's technical lead technician during the current campus build, partnering with internal engineers and external contractors on design reviews, installation plans, and acceptance criteria.
- Spend significant time on the data-center floor performing inspections, assisting with cable routing/termination when needed, conducting fiber testing (OTDR, power levels, continuity), and resolving installation challenges in real time.
- Troubleshoot and optimize cabling routes, patching, and equipment turn-up to ensure clean, reliable handoff to network operations.
- Contribute to design discussions and peer reviews for structured cabling and physical network layouts, providing practical field feedback to engineering teams.
- Develop repeatable engineering standards, as-built documentation, and deployment playbooks to accelerate future OpenAI campuses.
- Transition to hands-on design and deployment leadership for upcoming OpenAI data center expansions, owning network physical-layer deployment from design through commissioning.
- Collaborate with construction, engineering, and operations teams to drive projects to completion.
- Apply seasoned technical judgment to solve complex installation and testing issues.
- Adapt quickly to changing build conditions and enjoy learning emerging networking technologies.
What We Are Looking For
- 7+ years of experience in large-scale datacenter network deployment, structured cabling, or physical-layer installation.
- Deep knowledge of fiber/copper plant design, cabling standards, and hyperscale network best practices.
- Ability to excel in field work while applying seasoned technical judgment to solve complex installation and testing issues.
- Ability to adapt quickly to changing build conditions and enjoy learning emerging networking technologies.
- Excellent communication skills to drive projects to completion.
- Willingness to be based at a partner campus during the initial build phase and to travel to future OpenAI data center projects.
- Experience with hyperscale Clos fabrics or large-scale network design.
- Familiarity with routing and switching concepts (BGP, OSPF, EVPN/VXLAN) and basic Linux/network troubleshooting.
- Industry certifications such as BICSI, CCNA/CCNP, or equivalent.
Nice to Have
- Exposure to automation tools (Ansible, SaltStack) or scripting (Python, Shell) for configuration or documentation.
- Experience with hyperscale Clos fabrics or large-scale network design.
- Familiarity with routing and switching concepts (BGP, OSPF, EVPN/VXLAN) and basic Linux/network troubleshooting.
Benefits and Perks
- Competitive compensation package.
- Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AI infrastructure projects.
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Access to the latest tools and technologies.
- Flexible work arrangements, including remote work options.
- Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
- 401(k) matching program.
How to Stand Out
- When applying, highlight your experience with large-scale datacenter network deployment and structured cabling, as these are key requirements for the role.
- Be prepared to provide specific examples of your work with fiber/copper plant design and hyperscale network best practices.
- Showcase your ability to adapt to emerging networking technologies and your willingness to learn and grow with the company.
- Emphasize your excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams.
- Consider creating a portfolio of your work, including any relevant certifications or training programs you've completed.
- Research the company culture and values to understand how you can contribute to the team's success.
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