How to write CV for a Data Centre Engineer job

Are you a Data Centre Engineer looking for your next job opportunity, but not sure how to build a CV that shines?

There’s a pretty straightforward formula to writing a brilliant CV. It’s a combination of being easy to read, specific, relevant, whilst highlighting your skills, education and why you’re a good fit for the job.

Easy, right?

It’s probably worth noting that for data centre engineer jobs, there is an expectation that you will hold a unique set of skills, experience and education that the Hiring Manager or recruiter will be well trained to look for. So, whilst putting your CV together sounds easy in theory, there is an art to making yours successful.

Let’s break down exactly what is needed to make your CV stand out from the crowd.

Tailor your CV to the Data Centre Engineer job you’re applying for

One of the most overlooked tips when pulling together your CV is writing it for the specific job you're applying for. Data Centre Engineer job descriptions will vary - the tasks you're expected to fulfil in one job might be different to others on the market. As much as you can, match the language and key words throughout your CV to that in the job advert.

Keywords related to your specific discipline are hugely important. For example, if you have electrical experience, using keywords such as LV/HV or UPS may grab the recruiter’s attention, or if you have a mechanical bias – HVAC and cooling are definitely worth mentioning. Make sure you also make it clear if you are construction/ installation focused or maintenance/commissioning focused.

Start with a strong summary statement

Summary statements are a really quick way for your Hiring manager to get to know you. It is also one of your very first - and only - opportunities to capture their attention. Notoriously, hiring managers and recruiters pay as little as 6 seconds of attention to applications and CVs found online, so you've got to work hard to make sure yours isn't tossed into the unsuccessful pile.

An effective and attention-grabbing recipe would be: Current job title, number of years worked, key skills, top achievements and any unique expertise relevant to the job.  

For example:

Highly motivated Data Centre Engineer skilled at integrating project technical aspects and performing network infrastructure cabling. Over 5 years’ experience working within hyperscale, cloud-based and edge data centres for end-clients including Google and Microsoft. Detailed understanding of Data Centre infrastructure including power, cooling, cabling, server racks and in-rack-PDUS.

Include formal training, certifications and education

Data Centre Engineering is a highly specialised field so one of the key components being looked for on your CV will be your formal training and qualifications. This includes your relevant degree, e.g. computer science, a training qualification e.g. in data centre design, or specific training in a specific software e.g. java script.

Make sure your qualifications are clear – especially if you have an engineering degree.

Highlight your technical skills

Your technical skills as a Data Centre Engineer are going to be your biggest sellers and what the hiring manager is really interested in. Technical skills refer to the measurable abilities and knowledge that you've acquired in previous roles and, presumably, can bring to the role that you are applying for. It's a good idea to have this as a leading section.

Some of the most sought-after Data Centre technical skills include:

• Python
• SQL
• Machine Learning
• Java
• Tableau

List your relevant experience

Instead of listing responsibilities, lead your experience section with tangible accomplishments of your past roles. You want to show off the measurable impact you had on the company, and great way to do this is by using real numbers. Did you have a significant impact on revenue, customer engagement, or cost savings? 

Mentioning any names for reputable companies you have worked on projects for - whether it is a general contractor or client – can also make for an impactful CV.

Home in on your soft skills

Impressing with your CV goes beyond the technical skills and education you have. Your soft skills tell a story to your potential employer about how you interact with the workplace, what qualities you consider important to your professional profile and how you work.

Here are a list of some soft skills highly sought by the data centre industry:

• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Problem solving
• Adaptability
• Teamwork