Data Center Critical Operations Manager

About the role 

Riot Data Centers is looking for a Data Center Critical Operations Manager to lead day-to-day operations of our mission-critical data center to ensure 100% uptime, safety, and operational excellence through team leadership and rigorous process management. 

This position will be based in Rockdale, TX 

What You’ll Do 

• Site Ownership: Manage uptime, incident response, and preventive/corrective maintenance for all critical infrastructure (UPS, Generators, HVAC, BMS, Fire/Life Safety). 

• Team Leadership: Hire, coach, and manage a multi-disciplinary team of engineers and technicians. 

• Liquid Cooling Expertise: Own the reliability and maintenance of advanced cooling systems (CDUs, RDHx, direct-to-chip, leak detection, and water treatment). 

• Operational Rigor: Drive strict adherence to safety (LOTO, NFPA/OSHA) and procedural discipline (MOP/SOP/EOP). 

• Vendor & Stakeholder Management: Oversee service providers/OEMs, manage SLAs/costs, and partner cross-functionally with IT, Security, and Construction. 

• Compliance & Documentation: Maintain accurate asset records (CMMS) and ensure audit readiness (SOC, ISO). 

What You'll Bring 

• Experience: 5–10+ years in mission-critical operations (Data Centers, Hospitals, or Utilities) with proven leadership skills. 

• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of electrical/mechanical systems and risk controls. 

• Specialized Skill: Experience with liquid cooling change control (valve lineups, pressure testing, air purge). 

• Physical/Logistical: Ability to lift 50 lbs, climb ladders, participate in on-call rotations, and travel up to 5%. 

Preferred Qualifications 

• Experience in hyperscale or customer-facing environments. 

• Familiarity with Uptime Institute/TIA-942 and NFPA 70E. 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent technical/military training/trade school. 

Compensation and Benefits  

• Competitive Salary (commensurate with experience) + sign-on equity grant + bonus 

• Long-Term Growth: Eligible to participate in Riot’s equity incentive programs and share in the success you help build 

• 401(k) with Immediate Vesting: Generous company match up to 5% 

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Multiple medical plan options with a 100% employer paid premiums 

• Wellness & Lifestyle Perks: Enjoy free gym membership, pet insurance, childcare discounts, and more to support your life both in and out of work 

Riot is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.