Technical Leader, Data Centers

As a Technical Leader at Rockwell Automation, you will oversee the management and operation of our data centers, colocations, server rooms, and IDFs. Your responsibilities include leading a high-performing team, managing IT infrastructure projects, developing policies, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and collaborating with other departments to align IT strategies with business goals.

To qualify for the Technical Leader role at Rockwell Automation, candidates should have a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent experience, with at least 8 years in IT infrastructure leadership. A strong background in data center operations, cloud technologies, networking, and project management is highly preferred. Additionally, legal authorization to work in the US is required, as well as the ability to travel up to 20%.

Rockwell Automation is committed to fostering growth and development for all employees, including Technical Leaders. We offer a range of professional development opportunities, from training programs and mentorship to participation in global initiatives aimed at continuous improvement and modernization. This empowering culture supports you in advancing your career while making a significant impact on our technological landscape.

At Rockwell Automation, the work culture for Technical Leaders is collaborative, innovative, and inclusive. We value diverse perspectives and encourage our teams to think outside the box. As a Technical Leader, you'll be part of a supportive environment that nurtures creativity and promotes a flexible work schedule, allowing you to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

As a Technical Leader at Rockwell Automation, you will enjoy a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance (medical, dental, and vision), a 401k plan, paid time off, parental and caregiver leave, and a flexible work schedule. We're dedicated to ensuring our employees have the resources they need for both professional success and personal well-being.

Prioritizing tasks as a Technical Leader involves assessing project urgency and impact on business goals. I usually use the Eisenhower matrix to distinguish between urgent and important tasks, ensuring that key projects are completed on time while also addressing minor issues efficiently.

My experience with data center management encompasses overseeing multiple facilities, ensuring optimal performance, and implementing best practices for maintenance and security. I have led initiatives in modernization and efficiency improvements, which resulted in significant cost savings and enhanced operational capabilities.

To manage my team effectively, I focus on clear communication, setting achievable goals, and fostering a collaborative environment. Regular check-ins help to ensure engagement and address any challenges proactively. I also believe in empowering team members to take ownership of their projects, encouraging innovation and professional growth.

Addressing technical debt requires a strategic approach that includes identifying areas of concern, prioritizing them based on impact, and implementing plans for modernization. It's essential to communicate the long-term benefits of reducing technical debt to stakeholders and to allocate resources effectively, while ensuring that ongoing projects maintain a balance between innovation and stability.

My approach to cross-department collaboration emphasizes building strong relationships and understanding the goals of various teams. By establishing regular communication channels and aligning IT strategies with overall business objectives, I create an environment that fosters teamwork and ensures everyone is working towards common goals.

One notable project I managed was the migration of our data centers to a hybrid cloud environment, which not only improved scalability but also reduced operational costs. By leading a diverse team through structured planning, I was able to meet tight deadlines and ensure seamless integration with existing systems and processes.

Ensuring compliance involves staying up-to-date with industry regulations and standards. I implement regular audits and training for my team to reinforce best practices in security and data management. Creating an environment that promotes compliance awareness is crucial in maintaining trust and accountability within our operations.

Managing vendor relationships includes conducting thorough assessments, maintaining open lines of communication, and negotiating favorable terms. I approach vendor management as a partnership, ensuring that both parties benefit and that our IT infrastructure needs are met effectively and efficiently.

I believe that virtualization, cloud computing, automation tools, and advanced monitoring solutions are essential for effective data center management. These technologies enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enable better scalability and security in our infrastructure.

To keep my skills updated, I actively participate in professional development through online courses, industry conferences, and networking with peers. Staying informed about emerging technologies and trends allows me to bring fresh ideas and best practices to my role as a Technical Leader.