Staff Data Center Operations Engineer, Mainframe Core Systems

This is an on-site position. An on-site position must be consistently performed at an assigned Visa office location and require daily commute to the office location.

The Opportunity:

Visa’s Data Center Engineering & Operations team delivers seamless, world-class infrastructure and support ensuring uninterrupted service through innovation, standardization, and continuous growth. As a Staff Operations Engineer, you will be responsible for supporting and maintaining mission-critical infrastructure, including IBM Mainframe systems, Open Systems platforms, Storage platforms and associated connectivity and equipment installations. You will play a key role in ensuring the reliability, scalability, and performance of Visa’s core data center systems, collaborating across teams to drive operational excellence and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities:

Infrastructure & Equipment Installation

• Plan, install, relocate, and decommission mainframe CPUs, open systems hardware, network equipment, and structured cabling infrastructure in Visa data centers.
• Oversee hardware installs, rack/cabinet mounting, power/cooling requirements, and cable management per TIA-942 and BICSI standards.
• Conduct inventory, labeling, and documentation of all hardware and cabling infrastructure using DCIM tools.

Mainframe & Open Systems Support

• Maintain and support IBM z/OS, Tandem, and open systems environments, including system upgrades, patching, software installations and storage drives.
• Troubleshoot and resolve incidents across platforms, including FICON Director and fiber-switched environments.
• Support pervasive encryption, audit compliance, and key management processes.

Connectivity & Network Operations

• Deploy and maintain network infrastructure (cabling, switches, routers) to ensure scalable, secure, and high-performance connectivity.
• Perform diagnostics, cross-connects, and circuit troubleshooting (Layer 1–3) using OTDR testers, power meters, and fiber cleaning kits.
• Manage port allocations, device turn-ups, migrations, and network documentation.

Operational Excellence

• Provide 24x7 support for problem diagnosis and resolution of hardware, network, and cabling infrastructure.
• Utilize ticketing systems for change/problem management and ensure accurate tracking and resolution.
• Participate in planning meetings to communicate infrastructure requirements and ensure project objectives are met.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to a culture of knowledge sharing and continuous improvement.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage vendors providing hardware and cabling support, ensuring compliance with Visa’s standards and project timelines.
• Liaise with co-location service providers, internal teams, and external contractors for service coordination and escalation.

Compliance & Safety

• Ensure all installations and maintenance activities comply with Visa’s Global Safety, Health, and Environmental Program.
• Perform monthly audits of maintenance reports and support internal/external audit compliance activities.

Basic Qualifications:

• 5+ years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor’s Degree or at least 2 years of work experience with an Advanced degree (e.g. Masters, MBA, JD, MD) or 0 years of work experience with a PhD, OR 8+ years of relevant work experience.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Systems, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 8+ years of hands-on experience in data center operations, mainframe, and open systems engineering.
• Deep knowledge of IBM z/OS architecture, JCL, CICS, DB2, IMS, VSAM, RACF, SMP/E, and open systems platforms (Linux/Unix).
• Experience with LPAR configuration, HMC, Sysplexes, virtual tape libraries, and structured cabling.
• Familiarity with DCIM tools, OTDR testers, power meters, and fiber cleaning kits.
• Certifications preferred: ITIL, CCNA, BICSI, Network+, or equivalent.
• Experience with NLYTE and ServiceNow tools
• Strong communication skills (written, verbal, presentation).
• Ability to take initiative, work independently and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable with physical aspects of the role (lifting, overhead work, equipment installs).
• Experience mentoring and training junior staff.

Work Hours: Varies upon the needs of the department.

Travel Requirements: This position requires travel 5-10% of the time.

Mental/Physical Requirements: This position will be performed in an office setting. The position will require the incumbent to sit and stand at a desk, communicate in person and by telephone, frequently operate standard office equipment, such as telephones and computers.

Visa is an EEO Employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. Visa will also consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with EEOC guidelines and applicable local law.

Visa will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in a manner consistent with applicable local law, including the requirements of Article 49 of the San Francisco Police Code.

U.S. APPLICANTS ONLY: The estimated salary range for this position is $116,300 to $186,000 USD per year, which may include potential sales incentive payments (if applicable). Salary may vary depending on job-related factors which may include knowledge, skills, experience, and location. In addition, this position may be eligible for bonus and equity. Visa has a comprehensive benefits package for which this position may be eligible that includes Medical, Dental, Vision, 401 (k), FSA/HSA, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off, and Wellness Program.