Data Center Job

ugarner

I have an interview for a job in a data center tomorrow. I've done a little research and what I've learned is that places like these consist of a little bit of everything. What type of questions would i would be asked?

I just want to note that I have no hands-on experience in IT. I have a degree, but that is it. And I am only working on my A+ cert. I find it interesting that I have been called in for an interview since I really have no experience, but I also find it as a great opportunity to gain much experience. The recruiter asked me several questions to get an idea of what I knew about the systems, and honestly....90% of it was a solid "no". She went ahead and sent my resume and answers to the team lead and he wanted to interview me. So I am assuming that there must be a really good reason I am making it this far. What can I do and say to wow the guy and make sure I get the job. I really believe this is a great opportunity for me and I do not want to mess this up! plus, the pay is wayyy better than my current job.

networker050184

Data Center is such a broad term. What will you be doing?

ugarner

Monitor job streams and system backups for errors for 24/7 operation
Perform nightly backup sheets
Perform offsite tape rotation
Performs simple troubleshooting procedures
Complete forms, logs and shift reports concerning machine utilization and/or system checks
Report errors-open tickets, escalate, etc.

Proficient in basic PC skills (Microsoft Office Products, Windows NT, and Lotus Notes)
Experience in Data Center Operations or Production Control preferred
Experience with UNIX, AS400, Linux, HP Sun, and Service Center preferred Strives to meet established standards and goals
Communicates effectively and builds rapport with management and co-workers

drew726

Sounds like my job at the NOC, except I have a little bit more responsibilities. But yeah, I have to do shift reports, tickets, escalations as well.

ugarner

My thread died quickly, but i just wanted to bring it back and say I GOT THE JOB!

i cannot tell you guys how excited i am. i graduated fall 2009 and could never even get an interview for an IT position until now. im so glad to be getting away from my current job. im tired of making copies for this ungrateful office. and im ready to start an actual career. even though im new to the forums, reading peoples posts really motivated me to keep trying

networker050184

Awesome! Congrats on the new gig man.

mikej412

Congratulations on the Job and hopefully the beginning of a Career!!

MickQ

Bloody hell, that's a sweet one you pulled off there!
Will you let us know what they're looking for you to do, so that others looking for info here in the future will have an idea? Thanks.

ugarner

MickQ wrote: »

Bloody hell, that's a sweet one you pulled off there!
Will you let us know what they're looking for you to do, so that others looking for info here in the future will have an idea? Thanks.

as of right now, in the interview i was told id be taking calls from different parts of the company about servers being down, networks issues, etc. then either doing a simple fix or escalating it to level 2. im sure there is more to the job since my first 8 weeks will be training, but that is all i know as of right now. my paperwork and things came in the mail today, so ill be reading up on it when i get home.

i let the team lead know the same info as the recruiter, he looked as if me not knowing much was not a problem and id be perfect for the position since it is entry level. i told him i felt the job was a huge opportunity for me and he agreed. he let me know that if i got the job id learn tons of things consistently from working there.

MiikeB

ugarner wrote: »

as of right now, in the interview i was told id be taking calls from different parts of the company about servers being down, networks issues, etc. then either doing a simple fix or escalating it to level 2. im sure there is more to the job since my first 8 weeks will be training, but that is all i know as of right now. my paperwork and things came in the mail today, so ill be reading up on it when i get home.

i let the team lead know the same info as the recruiter, he looked as if me not knowing much was not a problem and id be perfect for the position since it is entry level. i told him i felt the job was a huge opportunity for me and he agreed. he let me know that if i got the job id learn tons of things consistently from working there.

I previously did hiring for similar positions, and I found that it was MUCH better to hire someone with no experience but eager to learn than someone who has been doing this kind of work for 2 years. This kind of work would be extremely boring for someone with 3+ years of IT experience under their belt, and they would quickly become bored with it and slack off etc. By bringing in you, someone who they believe is capable and eager to learn but has none of the knowledge, they know that this will all be new and interesting to you and you will concentrate on each task and think it through.

This is a big opportunity and try to make the most of it. It sounds like the kind of operation that has plenty of room for growth so try to move up after a year or two. You don't want to be the guy that has been level 1 escalating tickets and answering phones for 5 years.

earweed

Sounds like a good opportunity you have there. Good luck with it.

MickQ

That's a great job you've been given. Take it all in and enjoy all the learning you'll do.