Vice President, Data Center Operations

About Switch At Switch, we don’t just design, build and operate data centers—we are enabling the technology of the future. Led by Founder & CEO, Rob Roy, we believe in revolutionary innovation, operational excellence and the principle of karma. Switch is where talented people come together to EVOLVE the digital world. We believe that innovation isn’t just about technology—it’s about the people, culture, and purpose that make it happen. Every Switch team member contributes to a mission greater than themselves: to create the world’s most advanced digital infrastructure that powers the progress of humanity. The Role: Vice President, Data Center Operations The Vice President of Data Center Operations is accountable for operational performance, reliability, and compliance across assigned Switch campuses. You lead critical systems operations in a 24/7 mission-critical environment and are responsible for maintaining continuous uptime, regulatory compliance, and operational discipline. This role sets operational standards, develops leaders, manages budgets, and ensures infrastructure performance meets Switch expectations and client requirements. You report to the SVP of Data Center Operations. What You’ll Do Lead critical systems operations across assigned campuses or Prime locationsEstablish and enforce operational standards to maintain continuous uptimeOversee monitoring, maintenance, and lifecycle management of electrical and mechanical infrastructureDrive long- and short-term operational planning, including cost control and capital planning inputDevelop department structure, roles, succession planning, and technical training programsEnsure compliance with regulatory requirements, safety standards, and industry auditsOversee commissioning, reporting, and operational readiness processesPartner with Construction and Engineering to support campus expansion and infrastructure upgradesMaintain executive-level reporting on operational performance, risk exposure, and resource planningBuild and maintain relationships with key clients, vendors, contractors, and regulatory stakeholdersLead vendor management strategy, performance reviews, and contract oversightEnsure adherence to safety requirements and OSHA standards across multi-megawatt facilitiesSupport business development efforts as needed to reinforce operational credibilityRespond to major incidents and provide executive leadership during critical events What We’re Looking For Executive-level operational judgment in high-availability environmentsAbility to lead large, multi-disciplinary teams across regionsClear and direct communicator with experience reporting to senior leadershipStrong risk management mindset with disciplined decision-making under pressureAbility to balance uptime, safety, cost control, and long-term infrastructure strategyLeader who builds accountability, ownership, and technical excellence within teamsComfortable operating in a 24/7 environment with emergency response expectations Required What You’ll Bring 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in critical facilities, data center operations, or similar high-availability infrastructure environments5+ years of senior leadership experience overseeing multi-site or large-scale operationsStrong background in electrical and mechanical systems used in mission-critical environmentsExperience managing operational budgets and capital planning inputsDeep understanding of safety standards and regulatory compliance in multi-megawatt facilitiesAbility to interpret blueprints, schematics, electrical drawings, and infrastructure documentation Preferred Bachelor’s degree in Electrical, Mechanical, or Electronic Engineering, or related fieldRelevant industry certificationsExperience with DCIM, BMS, and facility monitoring systemsExperience supporting large-scale construction or expansion programs Operational Requirements 24/7 availability for emergency responseAbility to travel domestically and internationally as requiredAbility to work near live electrical and mechanical systemsAbility to lift up to 50 pounds and perform site walk-throughs, ladder climbing, and equipment inspections Why Switch? A Culture of Karma – We are self-motivated by karma, ensuring our actions contribute to a positive, supportive and forward-thinking environment.Industry Leading Designs – Work with the most advanced data center technology on the planet and be a part of emerging technology development.Flexibility & Remote Opportunities – Whether in-office, hybrid, or fully remote, we offer the technology and support to keep teams connected and productive.Career Stability & Growth – In this expanding industry, we invest in our people, providing opportunities & advancement in a stable, growing company.Generous Benefits Package - Switch provides comprehensive coverage for you and your family that can be tailored to fit your personal needs, and more! Join Us & Make a Difference This is more than a job—it’s a mission. If you’re ready to be part of a culture that values innovation, karma, and limitless potential, we want to hear from you. Apply Now and Let’s Build the Future Together. Applicant and Candidate Privacy Notice Your privacy rights may vary by location. Learn more in our Switch Applicant and Candidate Privacy Notice https://www.switch.com/applicant-and-candidate-privacy/ to understand how Switch collects, uses, shares, and protects your personal information during the recruiting process. Safe Hiring Notice Legitimate Switch recruiting emails come from switch.com. Current opportunities are posted on https://switch.com/careers and the official Switch LinkedIn Company page https://www.linkedin.com/company/switch-data-centers/. Switch will never ask you to pay fees, purchase equipment, send money, cash a check, or transfer funds as part of recruiting. Personal information is collected only through approved Switch systems. If you suspect recruiting fraud, stop communicating with the sender and review FTC guidance https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/what-do-if-you-were-scammed. Equal Employment Opportunity Switch is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We provide employment opportunities without discrimination or harassment based on any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. Accommodations Switch provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities throughout the hiring process. If you need an accommodation, contact careers@switch.com. Switch also considers qualified applicants with criminal histories in accordance with applicable law. Recruitment Agencies Switch does not accept unsolicited resumes or candidate submissions from agencies without a current written agreement. Switch is not responsible for fees related to unsolicited submissions.