Data Center Operations Engineer Job Vacancy in Lilongwe, Malawi – Technology

Job Description

Position:Data Center Operations Engineer

Company:Microsoft Malawi

Location:Lilongwe, Malawi

Experience:5+ years in data center operations, infrastructure management, and cloud services

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering or related field

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Technology

Department:Engineering

Salary:SSP 1,200,000 – SSP 1,800,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Microsoft Malawi is a leading global technology company with a strong commitment to digital transformation across Africa. Operating from its headquarters in Lilongwe, Microsoft Malawi delivers cloud solutions, enterprise software, and innovative services that empower businesses, governments, and communities. As part of Microsoft’s worldwide network, the Lilongwe office plays a pivotal role in expanding cloud infrastructure, supporting local talent, and driving sustainable technology adoption. The company’s culture emphasizes inclusion, continuous learning, and a passion for solving complex challenges, making it an attractive destination for professionals seeking impactful careers in the technology sector. This posting adds to the growing list of Malawi Jobs and reflects Microsoft’s ongoing investment in the nation’s digital future.

Job Overview

The Data Center Operations Engineer will be responsible for the day‑to‑day management of Microsoft’s data center facilities in Malawi, ensuring optimal performance, reliability, and security of critical infrastructure. The role involves monitoring hardware, managing capacity, implementing best‑practice operational procedures, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to support cloud services for customers across the region. The engineer will also contribute to strategic projects that enhance energy efficiency and scalability, aligning with Microsoft’s sustainability goals. For more information, visit Microsoft Malawi Careers.

Key Responsibilities

• Monitor and maintain server, storage, and networking equipment to achieve 99.9% uptime.
• Perform routine hardware inspections, firmware updates, and preventive maintenance.
• Respond to incidents, troubleshoot root causes, and document resolutions in ticketing systems.
• Coordinate with security teams to enforce physical and logical security controls.
• Manage capacity planning, forecasting growth, and recommending infrastructure upgrades.
• Implement energy‑saving initiatives and report on sustainability metrics.
• Collaborate with cloud engineering teams to support deployment of Azure services.
• Maintain comprehensive documentation of configurations, SOPs, and change logs.
• Participate in on‑call rotation to provide 24/7 support for critical incidents.
• Assist in disaster recovery testing and business continuity planning.

Required Skills

• Strong knowledge of server hardware, virtualization (Hyper‑V, VMware), and storage systems.
• Proficiency with networking protocols, routing, and switching equipment.
• Experience with monitoring tools such as System Center Operations Manager, Nagios, or equivalent.
• Familiarity with cloud platforms, preferably Microsoft Azure.
• Ability to script automation tasks using PowerShell, Python, or Bash.
• Excellent problem‑solving and analytical abilities.
• Effective communication skills for cross‑team collaboration.
• Commitment to adhering to ITIL best practices and security standards.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Information Technology, or a related discipline is required. Relevant certifications such as Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate, Cisco CCNA, or CompTIA Server+ are highly desirable and demonstrate a commitment to professional growth.

Experience

Applicants must have a minimum of five years of hands‑on experience managing data center environments, including hardware lifecycle management, capacity planning, and incident response. Prior exposure to large‑scale cloud infrastructure and a track record of implementing efficiency improvements will set candidates apart.

Salary

The position offers a competitive salary range of SSP 1,200,000 to SSP 1,800,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. This package reflects Microsoft’s dedication to attracting top talent in the region and aligns with market standards for senior technical roles.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance covering medical, dental, and vision.
• Retirement savings plan with company matching contributions.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
• Access to Microsoft’s global learning platforms and certification reimbursements.
• Transportation allowance for commuting to the Lilongwe office.

Training

• Onboarding program that includes data center safety, security protocols, and Microsoft culture.
• Continuous technical training through Microsoft Learn, internal workshops, and external conferences.
• Mentorship opportunities with senior engineers and architects.
• Leadership development tracks for high‑potential employees.

Working Environment

The role is based in a state‑of‑the‑art data center facility in Lilongwe, featuring modern security systems, climate‑controlled environments, and collaborative workspaces. Employees benefit from a supportive atmosphere that encourages innovation, knowledge sharing, and a healthy work‑life balance. Microsoft’s commitment to diversity and inclusion ensures that all staff feel valued and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the online portal on Microsoft’s career site. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted applicants will be contacted for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site technical assessment. Additional resources are available at Ghana Job Search. Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Microsoft Malawi is committed to building a diverse workforce and fostering an inclusive environment. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any such factor. This commitment aligns with our broader mission to create technology that empowers every person and organization on the planet.