Hardware Technician – Data Center (On-Site | Lake Forest, IL)
$32–34/hr | Full-Time (Perm role)
Join our client's data center operations team supporting critical hardware infrastructure. This hands-on role focuses on server installations, cabling, troubleshooting, and equipment lifecycle management in an enterprise environment.
Schedule:
• Monday–Friday, 10 AM – 7 PM
• Initial training: 1–2 weeks, 8 AM – 5 PM
• On-call rotation: 1 week/month ($100 stipend + paid hours worked)
Responsibilities:
• Install, rack, and maintain data center hardware (servers, storage, networking equipment)
• Perform rack/stack, cable management, and structured cabling (fiber & copper)
• Troubleshoot connectivity and hardware issues
• Manage inventory, asset tracking, and equipment documentation
• Ship/receive hardware and maintain accurate records
• Work within a multi-team ticketing environment
• Travel occasionally between Lake Forest Data Center and Elk Grove Village co-location site
Qualifications:
• Understanding of data center infrastructure (servers, switches, firewalls, routers)
• Strong troubleshooting and diagnostic skills
• Experience documenting and tracking IT assets and hardware
• Clear communication and ability to collaborate across teams
• Comfortable climbing ladders and lifting up to 50 lbs (team lift)
• 1+ year experience with structured cabling (copper/fiber) and cable testing
• Certifications are a plus but not required
• Enterprise environment experience preferred
Because of the possibility for fraudulent job postings on many popular job boards, please be advised that Connection will never offer a position of employment without a complete interview process, communication with a live person, and a signed offer letter.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
Connection Services has a fantastic opportunity for a Desktop Support Specialist to join a dynamic and professional corporate environment in Chicago, IL. This is an excellent opportunity to work for a leading Value-Added Reseller (VAR) that offers outstanding benefits, including three weeks of paid time off, tuition reimbursement, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a 401(k) plan, and exceptional opportunities for career growth and advancement.
This role offers a balanced mix of Help Desk Support (50%) and Desktop Support (50%), making it ideal for a customer-focused IT professional who enjoys both remote troubleshooting and hands-on technical support. The successful candidate will possess strong communication skills, exceptional attention to detail, and the ability to work independently while delivering a high level of service to end users in a corporate setting.
Professional Environment
Key Responsibilities
Serve as the first point of contact for end-user technical support requests via phone, email, and ticketing systems.Log, track, prioritize, and manage support tickets while ensuring timely resolution and communication with users.Perform initial troubleshooting and diagnosis of hardware, software, operating system, network connectivity, and application-related issues.Escalate unresolved incidents to the appropriate support teams and coordinate follow-up activities through resolution.Provide regular updates to end users regarding ticket status and expected resolution timelines.Process new hire, employee termination, and workstation move requests, ensuring all required systems and access are provisioned appropriately.Create, modify, and maintain Active Directory user accounts, profiles, and permissions.Coordinate with third-party vendors when necessary and maintain accurate documentation of support activities.Install, configure, troubleshoot, and repair desktop and laptop hardware, peripherals, and related equipment.Deploy and connect workstations to corporate networks and business systems.Perform workstation setup, equipment relocation, software installations, and desktop imaging activities.Support data migration efforts and user onboarding initiatives.Maintain and manage loaner laptop inventory and related asset tracking processes.Assist with Help Desk coverage and support team initiatives as needed.Document technical issues, resolutions, and support procedures to improve service delivery.Perform additional duties and projects as assigned by management.Required Qualifications
Preferred Qualifications
If you are a customer-focused IT professional who enjoys solving technical challenges, supporting end users, and working in a professional corporate environment, we encourage you to apply.
Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries.Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries. Read LessSr. Data Center Infrastructure Engineer
$68-80/hr depending on experience
Position Summary
The Data Center Infrastructure Engineer is a hands-on technical professional responsible for the day-to-day deployment, maintenance, and support of physical data center infrastructure. This role performs server installations and decommissions, rack and stack activities, structured cabling, hardware mounting, power validation, inventory management, and general data center support functions.
This position requires an individual who is willing to roll up their sleeves and actively participate in daily data center operations while also serving as a catalyst for continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will evaluate existing workflows, identify inefficiencies, and implement solutions that enable the team to work smarter, simplify operations, and reduce manual effort. This individual will leverage technology, automation, and collaboration platforms to create more efficient, scalable, and standardized ways of working.
Key Responsibilities
Data Center Operations
Perform server, storage, and network equipment installations, removals, upgrades, and relocations.Execute rack and stack activities, including rail installations, hardware mounting, and equipment positioning.Install, route, terminate, and manage structured copper and fiber cabling.Perform patching, labeling, and cable management in accordance with established standards and documentation requirements.Validate power connections, PDU assignments, and equipment readiness prior to deployment.Conduct hardware inspections and perform basic troubleshooting and diagnostics on servers, network devices, and supporting infrastructure.Support hardware refresh initiatives, equipment lifecycle management, and technology deployment projects.Maintain accurate inventory records, asset tracking, rack elevations, and deployment documentation.Follow established data center safety standards, operational procedures, and change management processes.Collaborate with engineering, project management, and operational teams to execute work efficiently and accurately.Process Improvement and Operational Excellence
Assess current workflows and operational processes to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.Reduce manual effort by developing standardized procedures, documentation, and repeatable processes.Identify opportunities to automate routine activities and improve overall operational efficiency.Analyze current environments and recommend improvements that increase productivity, scalability, and service quality.Implement best practices that simplify work management and improve cross-functional collaboration.Drive initiatives that enable the team to work smarter by leveraging existing technologies and optimizing workflows.Collaboration and Productivity Tools
Utilize Microsoft SharePoint, Teams, and the broader Microsoft application suite to centralize information, improve communication, and streamline work management.Design and implement shared repositories, workflows, dashboards, documentation libraries, and tracking mechanisms that improve visibility and operational efficiency.Recommend and implement solutions that better leverage existing Microsoft technologies to simplify processes and eliminate redundant activities.Partner with leadership and operational teams to establish scalable methods for managing tasks, documentation, reporting, and knowledge sharing.Required Qualifications
8+ years of hands-on experience supporting enterprise or colocation data center environments.Demonstrated experience performing rack and stack activities, server deployments, structured cabling, and physical infrastructure support.Strong understanding of server hardware, rail systems, power distribution, and data center operational standards.Experience with hardware deployments, decommissions, inventory management, and asset tracking.Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.Ability to work independently and effectively in fast-paced production environments.Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.Ability to lift and move equipment and work in physically demanding data center environments.Preferred Qualifications
Experience implementing process improvements and driving operational efficiencies within data center environments.Experience with scripting or automation technologies such as PowerShell, Python, or similar tools.Experience with DCIM platforms, asset management systems, and infrastructure monitoring tools.Advanced proficiency with Microsoft SharePoint, Microsoft Teams, and Microsoft 365 applications.Experience designing collaborative workflows, documentation repositories, dashboards, or process management solutions within the Microsoft ecosystem.Demonstrated ability to challenge existing processes and implement practical solutions that improve team effectiveness and reduce manual effort.Key Competencies
Hands-On Technical ExecutionContinuous Improvement MindsetProcess Optimization and AutomationOperational ExcellenceCritical Thinking and Problem SolvingCollaboration and CommunicationTechnology Adoption and EnablementOrganization and Attention to DetailCustomer FocusOwnership and AccountabilitySuccess Measures
Accuracy and quality of deployments and installationsReduction of manual processes and operational inefficienciesImproved workflow standardization and repeatabilityIncreased utilization of Microsoft collaboration and productivity toolsAccuracy of inventory and documentation managementTeam productivity and operational efficiency improvementsCustomer satisfaction and service delivery excellenceCompany DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries.Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries. Read LessIT Asset Analyst
Position Summary
The IT Analyst partners with business stakeholders, IT teams, and external vendors to analyze requirements, optimize processes, and support systems that manage a large-scale global device and asset environment. This role is responsible for supporting the full lifecycle of IT assets, including inventory management, compliance, reporting, asset disposition, and end-of-life processing.
The ideal candidate combines strong business analysis, process improvement, and data analytics skills with experience in IT asset management and enterprise systems. This individual will contribute to system enhancements, support cross-functional initiatives, and help ensure operational excellence across a global environment managing more than 100,000 technology assets.
M-F, 8AM-5PM
$26/hr
Key Responsibilities
Business Analysis & Process Improvement
Asset Management & Compliance
Analyze asset and device reporting to monitor and manage over 100,000 assets across a global enterprise environment.Maintain accurate asset records throughout the entire asset lifecycle, including acquisition, deployment, tracking, recovery, disposition, and retirement.Partner with global site contacts to ensure compliance with local regulations, data privacy requirements, and corporate asset management policies.Support hardware and software audit activities while ensuring adherence to corporate, divisional, and IT governance standards.Monitor asset compliance, inventory accuracy, and reporting integrity across multiple systems and vendor-managed platforms.Project & Systems Support
Support all phases of the systems development lifecycle, including planning, coordination, testing, implementation, and post-deployment support.Coordinate activities across technical and business teams while communicating project status, risks, issues, and deliverables to leadership.Demonstrate foundational project management capabilities by supporting small to medium-sized initiatives and continuous improvement efforts.Assist with project planning, scheduling, resource coordination, and execution of assigned projects.Prioritize workload effectively to meet deadlines, service level agreements, and operational objectives.Exercise sound judgment in decision-making, issue resolution, and escalation management.Communication & Collaboration
Build strong working relationships with stakeholders, vendors, and internal teams across the enterprise.Communicate effectively with technical and non-technical audiences, including leadership, business partners, and external vendors.Provide ongoing support, guidance, and documentation to ensure successful adoption of systems and processes.Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology, Mathematics, Business, or a related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience.Experience in Business Analysis, IT Asset Management, IT Operations, or a related discipline.Proven ability to document business requirements, workflows, process maps, and system specifications.Experience working with enterprise platforms such as ServiceNow and vendor-managed asset management tools.Strong analytical and reporting skills utilizing Power BI, Microsoft Excel, and related reporting technologies.Excellent organizational, problem-solving, and communication skills.Ability to manage multiple priorities and work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional environment.Preferred Qualifications
Experience supporting enterprise-scale IT asset management environments.Knowledge of hardware lifecycle management, asset disposition, inventory controls, and audit compliance.Familiarity with ITIL practices, governance frameworks, and process improvement methodologies.Experience supporting global operations and working with geographically dispersed teams.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries.Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries. Read Less
Connection has a fantastic opportunity through our Technical Staffing division for a Server Hardware Technician in Charlotte, NC. This is a full-time remote position (1 day a week in office) with benefits.
Provide enterprise level support of IT infrastructure technologies needed for critical business’ operations applications, server hardware support of HP and Dell, Windows troubleshooting, Server backup support. Server decommissioning with some Linux support is a plus.
Responsibilities:
Building, provisioning, and maintaining servers and workstations - requiring skills in hardware assembly, operating system configuration, and troubleshooting with a focus on ensuring efficient and secure IT infrastructureWindows OSServers (Virtual & Physical) & WorkstationsUtilizing BigFix Automation tool· Plans, designs, installs and/or supports critical computer systems in highly regulated and secure environment. Facilitates technical and business planning for upgrades in coordination with key business functions and control centers. Provides technical guidance related to critical infrastructure support software and hardware to members of the IT staff.
· Develops (or assists in developing) functional standards for critical infrastructure software and hardware. Assists in the design and implementation of required systems that meet functional and compliance requirements for critical control center operations
· Integrates critical infrastructure software and hardware configurations to maximize operational reliability and performance, and maintain regulatory compliance
· Coordinates critical infrastructure hardware and software upgrades with control centers, business support teams and other areas of IT or other business units.
· Prepares activity and progress reports regarding individual and project activity
· Keeps abreast of new hardware, software, and compliance developments, evaluates alternative approaches, and recommends new hardware technologies, software or upgrades which enhance operational reliability and process efficiencies.
· Provide OS Level Support for Critical IT Infrastructure, both physical & virtual for the DEF Region
· OS Versions – Microsoft Windows Server 2012/2016/2019, Windows 10 Enterprise as well as Linux (RHEL 7/8/9)
· Provide Hardware Level Support for Critical IT Infrastructure (Server/Workstation/Appliances)
· Hardware Vendors - HPE & DELL
Qualifications:
· Associates degree in Information Technology, Computer Science, or Other Related Degree
· IT and OT Hardware, Operating System, and Software maintenance/support; CIOPS Network architecture and security; NERC CIP and TSA requirements and implementation
· CompTIA A+ and/or CompTIA Network+ and/or Microsoft Certified IT Professional (MCITP)
· Experience in Linux command-line, system configuration, networking, and security protocols
· Ability to work effectively in a technically complex critical infrastructure environment
· Strong understanding of regulatory compliance requirements (NERC CIP, TSA)
· 2-3-year practical experience with Windows/Linux operating systems and general computer asset usage and support
· Hybrid Mobility Classification – Work will be performed from both remote and onsite locations, so employees should live within a reasonable daily commute to a Duke Energy facility.
· Office/Data Center Settings
Because of the possibility for fraudulent job postings on many popular job boards, please be advised that Connection will never offer a position of employment without a complete interview process, communication with a live person, and a signed offer letter.
Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the U.S. We are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment visa at this time.
Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries.Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries. Read Less
Connection has a fantastic opportunity through our Technical Staffing division for a Senior Level 3 Network Technician. This is a long-term contract opportunity for an outstanding company with benefits. This unique role offers the opportunity to support enterprise network infrastructure while working onboard cruise ships for assigned rotations.
The Senior Level 3 Network Technician will serve as the primary onsite technical resource supporting enterprise networking, virtualization, server infrastructure, and data center operations aboard cruise vessels. This individual will play a key role in the migration of shipboard environments from VMware to Hyper-V utilizing Veeam while ensuring maximum uptime and operational continuity.
The ideal candidate is a highly skilled technician with strong Cisco networking expertise, virtualization experience, and advanced troubleshooting capabilities who can work independently with minimal supervision in remote and dynamic environments.
Applicants must have a valid U.S Passport.
Key Responsibilities
Provide Level 3 support for complex network, server, virtualization, and infrastructure issues.Support VMware-to-Hyper-V migration initiatives utilizing Veeam technologies.Install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Cisco routing, switching, wireless, and firewall environments.Administer Microsoft Windows Server environments including Active Directory, DNS, DHCP, and Group Policy.Support Hyper-V and VMware virtualization platforms.Troubleshoot network performance, connectivity, server, and infrastructure issues.Support onboard data center operations including rack-and-stack activities, cabling, hardware upgrades, and equipment replacement.Execute maintenance activities and infrastructure upgrades with minimal operational impact.Maintain technical documentation, procedures, and system configurations.Coordinate with remote engineering teams and client stakeholders.Serve as the lead onsite technical representative for Connection.
7+ years of experience supporting enterprise network and infrastructure environments.Proven experience providing Level 3 network and systems support.Strong hands-on expertise with:Cisco networking technologies (routing, switching, wireless, firewalls)Microsoft Windows ServerHyper-V virtualizationVMware vSphere environmentsActive Directory and enterprise infrastructure servicesAdvanced troubleshooting and problem-solving skills in network and data center environments.Ability to work independently with limited onsite supervision.Experience supporting production environments with high availability requirements.Excellent verbal and written communication skills.Strong customer service mindset and ability to build positive client relationships.
Preferred Certifications
Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)Microsoft Certified: Windows Server Hybrid Administrator AssociateCompTIA Server+Cisco CCNA or CCNPVeeam Certified Engineer (VMCE)VMware Certified Professional (VCP)Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries.Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries. Read Less
Connection has a fantastic opportunity through our Technical Staffing division for a Sr. Data Center Infrastructure Engineer. This is a contract position with benefits.
The Data Center Infrastructure Engineer is a hands-on technical professional responsible for the day-to-day deployment, maintenance, and support of physical data center infrastructure. This role performs server installations and decommissions, rack and stack activities, structured cabling, hardware mounting, power validation, inventory management, and general data center support functions.
This position requires an individual who is willing to roll up their sleeves and actively participate in daily data center operations while also serving as a catalyst for continuous improvement. The ideal candidate will evaluate existing workflows, identify inefficiencies, and implement solutions that enable the team to work smarter, simplify operations, and reduce manual effort. This individual will leverage technology, automation, and collaboration platforms to create more efficient, scalable, and standardized ways of working.
Key Responsibilities
Data Center Operations
· Perform server, storage, and network equipment installations, removals, upgrades, and relocations.
· Execute rack and stack activities, including rail installations, hardware mounting, and equipment positioning.
· Install, route, terminate, and manage structured copper and fiber cabling.
· Perform patching, labeling, and cable management in accordance with established standards and documentation requirements.
· Validate power connections, PDU assignments, and equipment readiness prior to deployment.
· Conduct hardware inspections and perform basic troubleshooting and diagnostics on servers, network devices, and supporting infrastructure.
· Support hardware refresh initiatives, equipment lifecycle management, and technology deployment projects.
· Maintain accurate inventory records, asset tracking, rack elevations, and deployment documentation.
· Follow established data center safety standards, operational procedures, and change management processes.
· Collaborate with engineering, project management, and operational teams to execute work efficiently and accurately.
Process Improvement and Operational Excellence
· Assess current workflows and operational processes to identify opportunities for continuous improvement.
· Reduce manual effort by developing standardized procedures, documentation, and repeatable processes.
· Identify opportunities to automate routine activities and improve overall operational efficiency.
· Analyze current environments and recommend improvements that increase productivity, scalability, and service quality.
· Implement best practices that simplify work management and improve cross-functional collaboration.
· Drive initiatives that enable the team to work smarter by leveraging existing technologies and optimizing workflows.
Collaboration and Productivity Tools
· Utilize Microsoft SharePoint, Teams, and the broader Microsoft application suite to centralize information, improve communication, and streamline work management.
· Design and implement shared repositories, workflows, dashboards, documentation libraries, and tracking mechanisms that improve visibility and operational efficiency.
· Recommend and implement solutions that better leverage existing Microsoft technologies to simplify processes and eliminate redundant activities.
· Partner with leadership and operational teams to establish scalable methods for managing tasks, documentation, reporting, and knowledge sharing.
Required Qualifications
· 8+ years of hands-on experience supporting enterprise or colocation data center environments.
· Demonstrated experience performing rack and stack activities, server deployments, structured cabling, and physical infrastructure support.
· Strong understanding of server hardware, rail systems, power distribution, and data center operational standards.
· Experience with hardware deployments, decommissions, inventory management, and asset tracking.
· Strong troubleshooting, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
· Ability to work independently and effectively in fast-paced production environments.
· Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
· Ability to lift and move equipment and work in physically demanding data center environments.
Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries.Company DescriptionConnection, a Fortune 1000 Global Solutions Provider, drives customer growth by calming the confusion of IT, guiding the connection between people and technology. The Connection brand includes Connection® Business Solutions, Connection® Enterprise Solutions, and Connection® Public Sector Solutions, which provide IT solutions and services to SMB, enterprise, and public sector markets. Connection holds hundreds of certifications with top vendors and offers expertise across multiple technology areas, delivering solutions to customers in over 174 countries. Read Less