Thoughts on a Data Center MOS?

2016-05-12T01:07:07-04:00

The DoD outsources a lot of their Data Center work (as far as I know). What are your thoughts on a Data Center Technician/Specialist position?

I personally think this position would be great, but the only issue I see with it (and most Signal MOS') is retaining good Soldiers because they can make the big bucks in the private sector.

Response by Sgt Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 3:29 AM

2016-05-12T03:29:18-04:00

SPC(P) Private RallyPoint Member If you can not wait to go to work each day, because your work excites you, then go for it. How much money you make is less important than happiness.

Response by SGT Edward Wilcox made May 12 at 2016 9:38 AM

2016-05-12T09:38:46-04:00

I am in favor of kicking 95% of all civilian contractors off all military bases world wide. As for the data centers, there are more than enough 25Bs and 25Us that could fill those jobs, as well as help desk and other support roles. Part of the issue in retaining quality soldiers who know their jobs is actually giving then something to do. Too often we train our soldiers, only to tell them to go sit in a corner while a civilian does their job for them, usually at 2-3 times the pay.

But to answer your question, I don't think we need a new MOS to staff the data centers.

Response by Cpl Justin Goolsby made May 12 at 2016 3:06 PM

2016-05-12T15:06:20-04:00

Honestly I'm surprised this isn't already an MOS considering we currently have computer and networking related MOSs. I think the position would be great as well. Personally I wouldn't worry about retention though. Yes, good personnel are hard to come by, but if money was a motivator, they wouldn't be in the military to begin with. I'd rather be surrounded by the people who actually wanted to be in the military than those who were just waiting on their next paycheck to clear.

Does that mean we'll continuously have to be training new bodies, of course, but as the years progress technology changes. So you'll always have an influx of personnel who are up to speed on the latest tech trends who can train up the old personnel while the old helps train up the new.

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made May 12 at 2016 9:09 PM

2016-05-12T21:09:04-04:00

No such MOS is required. This opportunity was present when the NEC was the DOIM. Simply put, less DA Civilians and contractors in the installation network admin offices.