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Datacenter Hardware Operations Lead

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OpenAI

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Location:
United States , San Francisco

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Category:
IT - Administration

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Contract Type:
Not provided

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Salary:

125600.00 - 228000.00 USD / Year
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Job Description:

We are seeking a Datacenter Hardware Operations Lead focused on hardware and network operations, and logistics, with 15+ years of experience managing complex, mission-critical data center environments. You will oversee and optimize day-to-day hardware physical operations—including material movement, and hardware maintenance—across our expanding global footprint. This role includes designing scalable repair and logistics systems, managing vendors, and ensuring seamless coordination across facilities, supply chain, and engineering.

Job Responsibility:

  • Collaborate with internal and external teams to establish the hardware operations strategy, critical metrics and SLAs
  • Lead daily physical operations for data center campuses, from commissioning through ongoing maintenance
  • Design and implement robust logistics systems for material movement, repairs, and operational workflows
  • Collaborate with engineering, construction, supply chain, and operations teams to streamline processes and resolve bottlenecks
  • Develop tools and practices for improved traceability, throughput, and vendor coordination
  • Manage relationships with external partners and ensure alignment with operational goals
  • Apply best practices in logistics and operational planning to support scalable infrastructure growth

Requirements:

  • 15+ years of experience in physical operations and logistics for mission-critical infrastructure and data centers
  • Proven ability to manage complex logistics systems and coordinate across disciplines
  • Deep understanding of operational processes for large-scale facilities including maintenance, construction support, and warehousing
  • Experience leading cross-functional initiatives and working with third-party vendors
  • Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Logistics, Operations Management, or a related field (advanced certifications preferred)

Nice to have:

  • 20+ years of experience managing global-scale data center operations and logistics
  • Expertise in supply chain logistics and systems implementation for hyperscale environments
  • Strong leadership in dynamic, high-pressure settings with evolving technical needs
What we offer:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance for you and your family, with employer contributions to Health Savings Accounts
  • Pre-tax accounts for Health FSA, Dependent Care FSA, and commuter expenses (parking and transit)
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match
  • Paid parental leave (up to 24 weeks for birth parents and 20 weeks for non-birthing parents), plus paid medical and caregiver leave (up to 8 weeks)
  • Paid time off: flexible PTO for exempt employees and up to 15 days annually for non-exempt employees
  • 13+ paid company holidays, and multiple paid coordinated company office closures throughout the year for focus and recharge, plus paid sick or safe time (1 hour per 30 hours worked, or more, as required by applicable state or local law)
  • Mental health and wellness support
  • Employer-paid basic life and disability coverage
  • Annual learning and development stipend to fuel your professional growth
  • Daily meals in our offices, and meal delivery credits as eligible
  • Relocation support for eligible employees
  • Additional taxable fringe benefits, such as charitable donation matching and wellness stipends, may also be provided
  • Offers Equity
  • performance-related bonus(es) for eligible employees

Additional Information:

Job Posted:
February 21, 2026

Employment Type:
Fulltime
Work Type:
Hybrid work
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