As tech companies continue to invest heavily in AI and cloud computing infrastructure, the demand for labor around data centers is spilling over into the physical security sector. In addition to construction and maintenance positions, there has been a significant increase in roles responsible for on-site protection, monitoring systems, and risk management.
The number of job openings continues to rise
Indeed data shows that since the beginning of 2020, the number of job postings mentioning both "data center" and "physical security" has nearly quadrupled. LinkedIn also states that data center-related job postings are projected to increase by 23% year-over-year in 2025.
Industry insiders say that with the dense deployment of large-scale facilities, data centers are being seen as critical infrastructure close to utilities and airports, which is also driving up the demand for security personnel and security engineering capabilities.
The job is more technical.
This type of work is no longer just about patrolling and access control checks. Industry insiders say that current data center security typically includes remote video surveillance, robotic inspections, drone alerts, and continuous assessments of potential threats.
Security industry organization ASIS International noted that while AI tools are being integrated into security systems, human resources remain the core element in scenarios where facility security and cybersecurity intersect, and many positions are not general security roles.
- A senior position at CoreWeave offers an annual salary of $143,000 to $191,000.
- An hourly wage for a job at an Amazon data center ranges from $24 to $42.
- Some positions require experience in security projects or supplier management.
Project expansion brings more obstacles
As data centers expand in scale, security becomes increasingly challenging. The article mentions risks including industrial espionage, drone intrusions, public protests, and the internal management pressures caused by frequent visits from contractors during the construction phase.
Community opposition is also growing. A Gallup poll in March showed that about 70% of American adults oppose building AI data centers near their homes. Business Insider estimates that by the end of 2024, there will be 1,240 data centers built or approved in the United States.
Last week, a data center project in New Hampshire had its application withdrawn following public opposition. The petition against the project garnered over 25,000 signatures, roughly five times the local population. Recruiting agencies believe that as long as data centers continue to expand, the demand for related security positions is unlikely to cool significantly.
