APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.

• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click “Apply” and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

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POSITION SPECIFICS​

Penn State Information Technology, Site Operations division is seeking a full-time Critical Infrastructure Manager. In this hands-on management role, you will provide exceptional engineering, operations, and leadership across telecom closets, hub sites, and data center facilities. You are a highly organized and knowledgeable professional with deep expertise in structured cabling systems, data center architecture, power and cooling systems, cabinet layout design, smart rack PDUs, hot and cold aisle containment, capacity management, and infrastructure monitoring.

The ideal candidate will possess strong project and change management skills, technical depth, strategic thinking, and proven business acumen to enable cross-functional collaboration and oversee installations, manage teams, and ensure quality and safety compliance throughout all phases of construction and operation. An active Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) certification is strongly preferred.

LOCATION

This is an onsite position located in State College, PA. The expectation for on-campus work is 5 days a week with flexibility for occasional remote days. Questions related to hybrid/flexible work schedule should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Project Management: Lead and coordinate all phases of structured cabling and data center installation projects from start to finish, ensuring deadlines, budgets, and quality standards are met.
• Supervision: Direct and manage on-site staff, subcontractors, and vendors. Oversee daily operations and ensure alignment with project goals and safety standards.
• Technical Oversight: Manage the installation of Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, fiber optic, and coaxial cabling systems, ensuring adherence to industry standards and client specifications.
• Documentation: Create, review, and maintain construction documents, blueprints, as-builts, and CAD drawings. Maintain accurate records of project progress and site conditions.
• Quality Control: Implement and maintain quality assurance protocols. Perform regular inspections and testing to verify compliance with standards and specifications.
• Safety Management: Enforce safety policies and procedures. Ensure job sites are compliant with regulations and internal access and safety guidelines.
• Budgeting: Assist with budget preparation, tracking, and cost control. Approve purchase orders and monitor expenditures against project milestones.
• Collaboration and Process Improvement: Work closely with engineering, design, and project management teams to resolve technical challenges and improve workflows and project outcomes.
• After-Hours Support: Respond to urgent issues and support inquiries outside of regular business hours.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Preferred Certification(s): RCDD, PMP, OSHA 30
• Proven ability to lead teams and manage subcontractors on large-scale projects
• Demonstrated ability to manage budgets and expenditures
• Proficiency in reading and interpreting blueprints, CAD drawings, and technical documents
• Strong understanding of installation practices for Cat5e/6/6a, fiber optic, and coaxial cabling
• Solid knowledge of safety protocols, building codes, and industry regulations
• Experience with MapCom, AutoCAD, Visio, Service Now, and other IT industry documentation and workload management tools

 

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree
8+ years of relevant experience, includes 3+ years of supervisory experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
Required Certifications:
None

 

APPLICATION

Application reviews will begin immediately until the position is filled.

 

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. This position requires that you operate a motor vehicle as a part of your job duties. A valid driver’s license and successful completion of a motor vehicle records check will be required in addition to standard background checks.

 

Penn State does not sponsor or take over sponsorship of a staff employment Visa. Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S.

 

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $97,100.00 - $145,700.00.

 

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

 

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing equity, respect, and belonging. We embrace individual uniqueness, as well as a culture of belonging that supports equity initiatives, leverages the educational and institutional benefits of inclusion in society, and provides opportunities for engagement intended to help all members of the community thrive. We value belonging as a core strength and an essential element of the university’s teaching, research, and service mission.

 

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