About this role
Overview
Microsoft is hiring a Critical Environment Program Manager (CEPM) to oversee operational and engineering programs across its global data centers. The role ensures that critical infrastructure—power, cooling, and related systems—operates safely, reliably, and in compliance with standards.
The CEPM serves as the bridge between engineering, operations, compliance, vendors, and leadership, driving initiatives that improve data center reliability, reduce operational risks, and maintain high availability for Microsoft's cloud services.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management
Own and deliver critical infrastructure programs, including:
- Reducing break-fix incidents by converting recurring issues into long-term projects.
- Improving Preventative Maintenance (PM) performance.
- Managing infrastructure upgrades and equipment lifecycle projects (e.g., transformers and reliability improvements).
- Leading programs from planning through execution and completion.
- Maintaining accountability for program outcomes.
Operational Excellence
Track and improve operational KPIs, including:
- Service availability and reduction of major incidents (SEVs).
- Break-fix backlog and Time-to-Repair (TTR).
- Preventative maintenance compliance and quality.
Additional responsibilities:
- Build dashboards and performance reports.
- Lead Monthly Business Reviews (MBRs).
- Present performance trends, risks, and recovery plans.
Risk & Compliance
Ensure compliance with Microsoft operational standards by:
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Managing risk registers and mitigation plans.
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Supporting audit readiness.
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Ensuring adherence to:
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DCOS standards
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ISO requirements
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MOP/SOP procedures
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Change Management (RFC/CAB)
Cross-Functional Leadership
Coordinate work among:
- Critical Environment Operations Managers (CEOMs)
- Mechanical and Electrical Engineers
- Vendors and contractors
- Regional and global Microsoft teams
Act as the primary owner for campus-wide or regional infrastructure initiatives.
Project & Portfolio Management
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Convert operational issues into scalable improvement projects.
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Develop program roadmaps.
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Manage dependencies and resource planning.
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Prioritize initiatives based on:
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Business impact
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Operational risk
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Customer availability
Stakeholder Communication
- Present program updates to senior leadership.
- Communicate risks, blockers, and project status.
- Drive accountability through regular review meetings.
Leadership & Culture
Promote:
- Continuous improvement
- Data-driven decision making
- Cross-team collaboration
- Microsoft's culture of ownership, inclusion, and growth mindset
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience working with critical environment infrastructure.
- Ability to pass Microsoft's Cloud Background Check.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with:
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Critical facility infrastructure:
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UPS systems
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Generators
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AHUs (Air Handling Units)
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Power and cooling systems
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Physical IT infrastructure:
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Servers
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Storage (SAN)
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Networking
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Structured cabling
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Data center racks
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Building systems:
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Electrical Power Monitoring Systems (EPMS)
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Branch Circuit Monitoring (BCM)
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Building Automation Systems (BAS)
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Large-scale project management.
Preferred certifications include:
- PMP
- ITIL
- CompTIA
- Microsoft certifications
- CDCP
- Inventory Control/ASICS certifications
Ideal Candidate
Microsoft is looking for someone who:
- Has a strong engineering background.
- Understands mission-critical data center infrastructure.
- Excels at managing complex technical programs.
- Is comfortable coordinating multiple engineering and operations teams.
- Can use metrics and dashboards to drive improvements.
- Communicates effectively with technical teams and executives.
Core Skills
- Data Center Operations
- Critical Infrastructure Management
- Electrical & Mechanical Systems
- Program Management
- Project Management
- Risk Management
- Compliance & Auditing
- Preventative Maintenance
- Operational Excellence
- KPI & Dashboard Reporting
- Stakeholder Management
- Cross-functional Leadership
- Change Management (RFC/CAB)
- Continuous Improvement
Seniority
This is an Individual Contributor (IC) role. Although it has no direct reports, it involves leading major cross-functional programs and influencing multiple engineering, operations, and leadership teams.