This role is responsible for the logical build and configuration of data center servers after physical rack, stack, and cabling activities are completed by the data center operations team.
The Compute Engineer performs the base server build, including IP configuration, NIC bonding, Cisco-based connectivity configuration, and VMware virtualization setup. Once complete, servers are handed over to application teams for application installation and testing.
This role does not include rack & stack, cabling, or physical data center floor work.
Key Responsibilities
Server Base Build & Configuration
Perform base builds of servers following physical handoff from the data center team
Configure IP addressing, NIC bonding, VLANs, and connectivity in Cisco-based environments
Validate logical server configuration and hardware visibility post-install
Apply standard smart configuration and build templates
Prepare servers for handoff to application teams for application deployment and testing
Virtualization (VMware)
Deploy, manage, and troubleshoot VMware vSphere environments (ESXi, vCenter)
Provision and support virtual machines
Manage compute capacity, performance, and availability
Support HA, DRS, backup, and disaster recovery within VMware environments
Operations & Automation
Perform firmware and BIOS updates and coordinate vendor RMAs (logical coordination only)
Automate routine tasks using Git-managed scripts and configuration standards
Monitor compute and virtualization platforms, respond to incidents, and perform root cause analysis
Maintain technical documentation and follow change management processes
Platforms
Support Windows and Linux server environments
Required Skills & Experience
Strong experience with data center compute infrastructure (post rack & stack focus)
Hands-on experience with VMware (vSphere, ESXi, vCenter)
Experience working in Cisco networked environments (VLANs, NIC bonding, connectivity configuration)
Solid understanding of server hardware, firmware, and lifecycle management
Experience using Git for version control
Scripting or automation skills (PowerShell, Bash, Python, etc.)
Windows and/or Linux server administration-
Strong understanding of HA, backup, and disaster recovery concepts
Location Requirement
Must be based in New Jersey
On-site presence may be required occasionally, but the primary focus is logical server build and VMware virtualization, not physical data center work