Google Data Center Facilities Technician I, Electrical :Interview

Insights and Career Guide

Google Data Center Facilities Technician I, Electrical Job Posting Link :👉 https://www.google.com/about/careers/applications/jobs/results/90831880529552070-data-center-facilities-technician-i-electrical?page=8

The Google Data Center Facilities Technician role is foundational to the reliability of Google's global infrastructure. This position is not just about maintenance; it's about ensuring the 100% uptime of the world's most sophisticated data centers. As a technician, you are the first line of defense for the physical heart of Google, responsible for the hands-on operation and support of critical electrical systems. Key skills revolve around electrical system expertise, proactive maintenance, and rapid response to any abnormalities. You will work with complex equipment like UPS systems, generators, and switchgear, which are the backbone of the data center's power. This role demands a sharp troubleshooting mindset, strict adherence to safety protocols, and the physical capability to work in a demanding environment. It is a critical, hands-on position essential for the seamless operation of all Google services.

Data Center Facilities Technician I, Electrical Job Skill Interpretation

Key Responsibilities Interpretation

As a Data Center Facilities Technician, your primary mission is to ensure the operational integrity of the facility's electrical infrastructure. Your day-to-day work involves operating, monitoring, and maintaining critical power systems to prevent outages and minimize recovery time from failures. A significant part of your role is assisting senior technicians, which includes reading and interpreting blueprints and schematics to assess the health of complex systems. You are tasked with managing the uptime and maintenance of UPS systems, generators, and electrical distribution equipment, which is the core responsibility of this position. Furthermore, you will be actively involved in the inspection, maintenance, and repair of various data center systems to preemptively identify and fix issues. This role also includes supporting the startup and commissioning of new electrical equipment, integrating it into the existing infrastructure seamlessly. Your diligence and technical skills directly contribute to the stability and efficiency of one of the world's largest technology platforms.

Must-Have Skills

• Electrical Experience: You need at least two years of hands-on experience in an industrial or commercial electrical environment to handle the sophisticated equipment. This background is crucial for troubleshooting and maintaining power systems effectively.
• Technical Training: An Associate's degree, trade school certification, or equivalent training is required. This foundational knowledge ensures you understand the principles behind the complex electrical systems you'll be managing.
• Physical Dexterity: The role requires the ability to lift up to 50 lbs (23 kg) and work with safety equipment like harnesses and ladders. This is essential for handling materials and performing maintenance in a physically demanding environment.
• Shift Flexibility: You must be able to work non-standard hours and rotating shifts. Data centers operate 24/7, and constant monitoring and support are non-negotiable for ensuring uptime.
• Blueprint and Schematic Reading: The ability to read and interpret technical drawings is fundamental. This skill allows you to understand system layouts and sequences of operation for effective maintenance and troubleshooting.
• System Monitoring: You must be able to operate, monitor, and respond to abnormal conditions in facilities systems. This proactive approach helps prevent minor issues from escalating into major outages.
• Problem Identification: A key competency is the ability to quickly identify problems and make repairs. This ensures environmental and safety standards are met while minimizing downtime.
• Safety Protocol Adherence: A deep understanding and consistent application of safety standards are mandatory. Working with high-power electrical systems requires a constant focus on safety to prevent accidents.

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Preferred Qualifications

• Data Center Experience: Prior experience in a data center, hospital, or power plant is a significant advantage. These environments house similar critical infrastructure, meaning you can adapt more quickly to Google's operational standards.
• Knowledge of Critical Electrical Systems: Familiarity with specific data center equipment like UPS systems, generators, switchgear, and PDUs is highly desirable. This specialized knowledge reduces the learning curve and allows for immediate contribution to the team.
• Troubleshooting Tool Proficiency: Skill in using diagnostic tools like digital multimeters and calibration equipment is a strong plus. It enables more efficient and accurate troubleshooting of electrical faults, reducing system downtime.

Career Path for Facilities Technicians

The role of a Data Center Facilities Technician I is a critical entry point into a dynamic and growing career field within IT infrastructure. This path typically begins with mastering the hands-on skills of maintaining and optimizing the physical hardware, including servers, network equipment, and crucial power systems. As you gain experience and proficiency, you can advance to senior technician roles, taking on more complex troubleshooting tasks and mentoring junior team members. Further specialization can lead to positions like an Electrical Specialist, focusing on high-voltage systems, or a Controls Technician, managing the Building Management Systems (BMS). With additional certifications (such as a Journeyman or Master Electrician license) and a deep understanding of data center operations, opportunities for leadership roles like Facilities Manager or even Data Center Operations Manager become accessible. This career trajectory offers a blend of hands-on technical work and strategic operational management, making it a robust and rewarding profession.

Mastering Critical Data Center Equipment

Deep, hands-on knowledge of critical electrical equipment is non-negotiable for a Facilities Technician. Your expertise is the primary defense against downtime, which can cause significant financial and operational disruption. This role requires more than just theoretical understanding; you must be intimately familiar with the operation, maintenance, and failure modes of Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS), backup generators, switchgear, and Power Distribution Units (PDUs). Mastering these systems involves routine preventative maintenance, responding to alerts from monitoring systems, and executing precise troubleshooting procedures under pressure. Understanding how these components interact—for example, how an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) seamlessly shifts the load from utility to generator power—is crucial for maintaining continuous operation. Proficiency is built through on-the-job training, vendor-specific certifications, and a relentless commitment to understanding the intricate details of the power chain that supports the entire data center.

The Future of Data Center Operations

The landscape of data center operations is rapidly evolving, driven by the explosive growth of AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing. This evolution places immense pressure on power and cooling infrastructure, making the role of the Facilities Technician more critical than ever. A key trend is the move towards full automation and AI-driven energy management. Future data centers will rely heavily on sophisticated monitoring systems that use predictive analytics to anticipate failures before they occur, optimizing energy consumption and improving efficiency. Furthermore, sustainability is a major focus, with a significant shift towards renewable energy sources and more efficient cooling solutions like liquid cooling. For technicians, this means the skillset must expand to include not only electrical and mechanical expertise but also a foundational understanding of data analytics and automated control systems to manage the next generation of hyper-efficient, resilient, and sustainable data centers.

10 Typical Data Center Facilities Technician I, Electrical Interview Questions

Question 1：Can you describe your experience with Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems in a commercial or industrial setting?

• Points of Assessment: The interviewer is evaluating your hands-on experience with critical power equipment, your understanding of its function in maintaining uptime, and your familiarity with different UPS configurations.
• Standard Answer: "In my previous role at [Previous Company], I was responsible for the daily monitoring and monthly preventative maintenance of several large-scale double-conversion UPS systems. My tasks included conducting battery health checks, verifying float and equalize voltages, and ensuring the systems were ready to take the full load during a power disturbance. I have experience with [mention specific brands like APC, Eaton, or Vertiv] and understand their role in providing clean, instantaneous power to critical loads while the backup generators start up. I was also involved in a scheduled annual maintenance where we bypassed the UPS to perform deep-cycle battery tests and component inspections."
• Common Pitfalls: Giving a purely theoretical answer without specific examples. Confusing a UPS with a backup generator or failing to explain its primary function of providing a seamless bridge to backup power.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What is the difference between a single-conversion and a double-conversion UPS?
  • How would you respond to a "battery discharging" alarm on a UPS?
  • Can you explain the purpose of a static bypass switch?

Question 2：Walk me through the steps you would take if you discovered a tripped circuit breaker on a Power Distribution Unit (PDU).

• Points of Assessment: This question assesses your troubleshooting methodology, your understanding of safety protocols (especially regarding electrical faults), and your ability to think logically under pressure.
• Standard Answer: "First, I would follow all safety procedures, including wearing the appropriate PPE. I would not immediately reset the breaker. Instead, I would investigate the potential cause of the trip by first identifying which loads are connected to that specific breaker. I would check the equipment connected to that circuit for any visible signs of damage or fault. If possible, I would use a multimeter to check for a short circuit. Before attempting to reset it, I would communicate the situation to my team lead and any affected system owners. Only after assessing the risk and determining it's safe would I attempt to reset the breaker once. If it trips again, I would not reset it and would escalate the issue for further diagnosis."
• Common Pitfalls: Stating you would immediately reset the breaker without investigation. Failing to mention safety precautions or communication with the team.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What could be some common causes for a breaker to trip in a data center?
  • How do you differentiate between an overload and a short circuit?
  • What is a maintenance bypass on a PDU used for?

Question 3：Describe your experience reading and interpreting electrical schematics or blueprints.

• Points of Assessment: Evaluates your technical literacy and ability to understand complex system designs, which is crucial for maintenance and troubleshooting.
• Standard Answer: "I have regularly used single-line diagrams and electrical schematics to trace power paths and understand system configurations. In my past experience, I used them to identify specific breakers in a panel schedule, trace the power flow from a UPS to a specific rack PDU, and assist senior technicians during the commissioning of new equipment. I am comfortable identifying symbols for components like transformers, automatic transfer switches, and circuit breakers, which allows me to effectively navigate the electrical infrastructure and isolate systems for maintenance."
• Common Pitfalls: Claiming proficiency without being able to describe what kind of information is found on a schematic. Being unable to name common symbols or diagram types.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What is a single-line diagram, and what is its primary purpose?
  • If you were looking at a schematic, how would you identify the voltage and phase of a particular circuit?
  • How have you used a sequence of operations document in your work?

Question 4：This role requires working non-standard hours and shifts. How do you feel about that, and how do you manage your work-life balance?

• Points of Assessment: Assesses your flexibility, reliability, and understanding of the 24/7 operational needs of a data center.
• Standard Answer: "I fully understand that data center operations are a 24/7/365 commitment and that uptime is the top priority. I am completely comfortable with working non-standard hours, including nights, weekends, and rotating shifts, as I have done so in previous roles. To manage work-life balance, I am very disciplined with my schedule on my days off to ensure I get adequate rest and can take care of personal responsibilities. I find that by planning ahead and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, I can stay energized and focused regardless of the shift I am working."
• Common Pitfalls: Showing hesitation or a negative attitude towards shift work. Giving a generic answer without explaining how you manage the challenges of a non-standard schedule.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • Tell me about a time you were called in unexpectedly to handle an issue.
  • How do you ensure effective communication and hand-off between shifts?
  • How do you stay motivated during a night shift?

Question 5：Tell me about a time you had to perform preventative maintenance on a critical piece of electrical equipment. What was the process?

• Points of Assessment: This behavioral question gauges your practical experience, attention to detail, and understanding of standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Standard Answer: "At my last job, I performed quarterly preventative maintenance on our backup diesel generators. The process began by reviewing the specific maintenance procedure (MOP) for that task. I would coordinate with the control room to ensure the generator was electrically isolated and followed our Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedures. The maintenance involved checking fluid levels, inspecting belts and hoses, testing the block heater, and cleaning the unit. Finally, I would conduct a brief load test to ensure it started and operated within specifications. I documented all my checks in our maintenance log before removing the LOTO and returning the system to standby mode."
• Common Pitfalls: Describing the task vaguely without mentioning specific checks or procedures. Forgetting to mention critical steps like safety protocols (LOTO) or documentation.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What is the purpose of a generator load bank test?
  • What safety precautions are most important when working with generators?
  • How did you document your findings after the maintenance was complete?

Question 6：How would you handle a situation where you need to communicate with a third-party contractor who is on-site to perform maintenance?

• Points of Assessment: This question evaluates your communication skills, understanding of site protocols, and ability to ensure contractor work meets safety and quality standards.
• Standard Answer: "When working with contractors, my first step is to ensure they have completed all required site safety training and have a valid work permit. I would review the scope of their work and the maintenance procedure with them to ensure we are aligned. While they are working, I would serve as their on-site point of contact, periodically checking on their progress and ensuring they are following all safety rules and operational procedures. After the work is complete, I would inspect the area to ensure it is clean and that all equipment is returned to its normal operational state before signing off on their work."
• Common Pitfalls: Suggesting you would let them work unsupervised. Failing to mention safety verification and work inspection as key responsibilities.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What would you do if you saw a contractor violating a safety policy?
  • How do you ensure the work performed meets your company's standards?
  • Describe a time you had a positive or negative experience with a contractor.

Question 7：This job can be physically demanding. Can you provide an example of a physically challenging task you've handled in a previous role?

• Points of Assessment: Confirms your ability to meet the physical requirements of the job and your awareness of ergonomic safety.
• Standard Answer: "Certainly. In a previous role, I was part of a team tasked with replacing batteries in one of our UPS systems. This involved carefully moving dozens of batteries, each weighing around 50 pounds, from the delivery pallet to the battery racks using a cart and proper lifting techniques. We had to work in a relatively tight space while ensuring we followed all safety guidelines for handling batteries and using the correct tools. I made sure to use proper body mechanics—lifting with my legs, not my back—and took short breaks to avoid fatigue, which ensured the job was completed safely and efficiently."
• Common Pitfalls: Simply saying "yes, I can handle it" without an example. Downplaying the importance of safety and proper lifting techniques.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What does ergonomic safety mean to you?
  • How do you approach tasks that require working at heights, like on a ladder or platform?
  • How do you ensure you and your team stay safe during physically strenuous tasks?

Question 8：Describe your knowledge of troubleshooting with tools like digital multimeters or other diagnostic equipment.

• Points of Assessment: Probes your technical, hands-on troubleshooting skills and your familiarity with standard electrical testing tools.
• Standard Answer: "I am proficient in using digital multimeters for various diagnostic tasks. I regularly use them to verify AC/DC voltage at outlets and terminals, check for continuity in circuits and fuses, and measure resistance to identify potential issues in components. For example, if a piece of equipment failed to power on, I would use a multimeter to first confirm that the power source is providing the correct voltage before inspecting the equipment itself. This methodical use of diagnostic tools helps me quickly and accurately identify the root cause of an issue."
• Common Pitfalls: Being unable to name specific functions of a multimeter (voltage, continuity, resistance). Lacking a specific example of how you've used one to solve a problem.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • When would you use the continuity setting on a multimeter?
  • What safety precautions must you take when measuring high voltage?
  • Have you ever used a thermal imaging camera? If so, for what purpose?

Question 9：Why are you interested in working in a data center environment, specifically at Google?

• Points of Assessment: This question assesses your motivation, your understanding of the role, and your interest in the company.
• Standard Answer: "I am fascinated by the scale and complexity of the infrastructure that powers the modern internet, and data centers are the heart of it all. I am a hands-on person who gets a lot of satisfaction from maintaining and troubleshooting complex systems, and I understand the critical importance of uptime in this environment. I am specifically interested in Google because of its reputation for operational excellence and innovation in data center design and efficiency. I want to be part of a team that operates at the highest standard and contributes to the reliability of services that billions of people use every day."
• Common Pitfalls: Giving a generic answer that could apply to any company. Focusing only on salary or benefits. Showing a lack of understanding of what a data center is.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What do you know about Google's data centers?
  • What do you think is the biggest challenge facing data centers today?
  • Where do you see yourself in five years in this field?

Question 10：Imagine an emergency situation, such as a utility power failure. What are your immediate responsibilities?

• Points of Assessment: Tests your understanding of emergency procedures, your ability to remain calm under pressure, and your knowledge of the power redundancy chain.
• Standard Answer: "In a utility power failure, my immediate responsibility is to monitor the automated systems to ensure a seamless transition to backup power. I would first verify that the UPS systems have taken the load instantaneously, as expected. Simultaneously, I would confirm that the backup generators have started and that the Automatic Transfer Switches (ATS) have successfully transferred the building's load from utility to generator power. I would then actively monitor the electrical distribution systems for any anomalies and communicate the status to the control room and my team lead. My role is to be the eyes and ears on the ground, ensuring the automated systems perform correctly and responding quickly to any unexpected issues."
• Common Pitfalls: Panicking or describing a chaotic response. Failing to mention the key components in the backup power sequence (UPS, generators, ATS). Overlooking the importance of monitoring and communication.
• Potential Follow-up Questions:
  • What would you do if one of the backup generators failed to start?
  • How long can your typical UPS system support the critical load?
  • What is the process for returning to utility power after it has been restored?

AI Mock Interview

It is recommended to use AI tools for mock interviews, as they can help you adapt to high-pressure environments in advance and provide immediate feedback on your responses. If I were an AI interviewer designed for this position, I would assess you in the following ways:

Assessment One：Technical Knowledge of Critical Electrical Systems

As an AI interviewer, I will assess your foundational knowledge of data center electrical infrastructure. For instance, I may ask you "Can you explain the function of an Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS) and why it's critical for data center operations?" to evaluate your fit for the role. This process typically includes 3 to 5 targeted questions on components like UPS, generators, PDUs, and switchgear.

Assessment Two：Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving Scenarios

As an AI interviewer, I will assess your logical approach to solving real-world problems. For instance, I may ask you "You receive an alarm for an over-temperature condition in a specific electrical room. What are the immediate steps you would take to investigate and mitigate the issue?" to evaluate your fit for the role. This process typically includes 3 to 5 targeted questions that test your ability to diagnose issues safely and effectively.

Assessment Three：Safety Protocols and Procedural Adherence

As an AI interviewer, I will assess your commitment to safety and your understanding of standard operating procedures. For instance, I may ask you "Can you describe the key steps of a Lockout/Tagout (LOTO) procedure and explain why it is important?" to evaluate your fit for the role. This process typically includes 3 to 5 targeted questions focused on ensuring you can perform your duties without endangering yourself or the facility's operations.

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Authorship & Review

This article was written by Michael Carter, Senior Data Center Facilities Engineer,
and reviewed for accuracy by Leo, Senior Director of Human Resources Recruitment.
Last updated: October 2025