Datacenter Networking Technician, AI Compute Deployment - Stargate

Details

OpenAI is building an advanced AI infrastructure ecosystem through its Stargate program, developing and deploying large-scale data center campuses. This role supports the physical deployment and commissioning of network infrastructure at partner-operated campuses and future OpenAI data center projects.

Candidates must be able to work onsite in Abilene, Texas, five days per week during the initial assignment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as OpenAI’s technical lead technician during the current campus build, partnering with internal engineers and external contractors on design reviews, installation plans, and acceptance criteria.
• Perform data center floor inspections, assist with cable routing and termination when needed, conduct fiber testing using OTDR, power-level, and continuity tests, and resolve installation challenges in real time.
• Troubleshoot and optimize cabling routes, patching, and equipment turn-up to ensure a clean and reliable handoff to network operations.
• Contribute to design discussions and peer reviews for structured cabling and physical network layouts, providing practical field feedback to engineering teams.
• Develop repeatable engineering standards, as-built documentation, and deployment playbooks for future OpenAI campuses.
• Transition to hands-on design and deployment leadership for upcoming OpenAI data center expansions, owning physical-layer network deployment from design through commissioning.
• Collaborate with partner teams and delivery vendors to achieve agreed performance and reliability targets.
• Travel to future OpenAI data center projects as needed.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in large-scale data center network deployment, structured cabling, or physical-layer installation.
• Deep knowledge of fiber and copper plant design, cabling standards, and hyperscale network best practices.
• Ability to perform field work while applying seasoned technical judgment to complex installation and testing issues.
• Ability to adapt to changing build conditions and learn emerging networking technologies.
• Clear communication skills for working with construction, engineering, and operations teams.
• Willingness to be based at a partner campus during the initial build phase and travel to future OpenAI data center projects.

Preferred Skills

• Exposure to Ansible, SaltStack, Python, or Shell for configuration or documentation automation.
• Experience with hyperscale Clos fabrics or large-scale network design.
• Familiarity with routing and switching concepts, including BGP, OSPF, and EVPN/VXLAN.
• Basic Linux and network troubleshooting skills.
• Industry certifications such as BICSI, CCNA, CCNP, or equivalent.

Benefits

• Equity, performance-related bonuses for eligible employees, and benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Health Savings Account, flexible spending, commuter, and 401(k) plans with employer match.
• Paid parental, medical, caregiver, sick, and safe leave.
• Paid time off, company holidays, and office closures.
• Mental health and wellness support.
• Employer-paid basic life and disability coverage.
• Annual learning and development stipend.
• Daily office meals and eligible meal delivery credits.
• Relocation support for eligible employees.

OpenAI is an equal opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations to applicants with disabilities. Background checks are administered in accordance with applicable law.