As part of our new ‘5 Minutes with’ series, we’re shining a spotlight on Preston Recruitment’s sector specialists, giving them a platform to share insights from the front line of facilities management and data centre recruitment across the globe.
In this week’s edition, we sit down with Jack Wallbridge, one of our dedicated Recruitment Consultants specialising in the Data Centre sector. Jack works closely with leading operators, service providers, and engineering professionals across the UK and internationally, giving him a unique perspective on what’s shaping the market right now.
Here’s what he had to say about talent trends, technology, and opportunities in this fast-moving global industry.
Market Trends & Talent Demand
How have you seen demand for Data Centre professionals change over the past 12 months, and which roles or skill sets are currently the hardest to fill?
Over the past year, demand for Data Centre Engineers has risen substantially as the market continues to grow, not only in the UK but worldwide. The engineering talent pool remains tight, and with Data Centres being high-stakes, business-critical environments, barriers to entry are naturally higher.
As a result, companies offering below-market salaries are finding it extremely difficult to attract or retain skilled engineers, technicians, and managers. Those that are aligning compensation with market rates and offering structured development, are the ones securing top talent.
Technology & Automation
What impact are technologies like smart building systems, AI, and automation having on the types of candidates your clients are looking for?
The development of AI is one of the biggest drivers behind the global Data Centre boom. In the UK, we’re seeing major tech giants committing more than £25 billion over the next five years, with close to 100 new data centre projects already planned.
While automation will certainly change some job landscapes, it’s also fuelling the need for highly skilled engineers to design, maintain, and operate the physical infrastructure that powers AI. In short, engineers are on the right side of the AI revolution, demand for their expertise is only going to increase.
Candidate Expectations & Retention
Have you noticed any shifts in what Data Centre candidates now expect from employers around things like hybrid work, pay transparency, or career development?
Absolutely. With new opportunities emerging all the time, engineers are increasingly focused on career progression, training, and long-term development.
Courses like HV-AP, LV-AP, and ILM certifications are now seen as essential steps for advancement. Candidates also expect employers to be transparent about salary progression and the pathway to leadership roles.
Many are drawn to hyperscale data centres because they offer exposure to cutting-edge equipment, large-scale operations, and involvement in build or project phases, all of which accelerate skill growth.
Regional & Global Competition
With Data Centre construction and operations expanding globally, are you seeing more competition between regions for the same talent, and how are your clients responding?
Definitely. There’s intense competition between employers and even regions for the same pool of engineering talent.
To stay competitive, many clients are reviewing salaries and benefits, while others are focusing on clear progression pathways and structured training to attract candidates who value long-term development over short-term gain.
Global Data Centre capacity is projected to increase by 46% over the next two years, which will hopefully prompt governments to support training initiatives that bring more engineers into the sector. Without that investment, the talent gap will only widen.
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Jack’s insights highlight just how fast the Data Centre sector is evolving, and how critical it’s becoming to attract, train, and retain the engineering talent that keeps the digital world running.
If you’re a business looking to strengthen your Data Centre team or a candidate ready for your next challenge, connect with Jack Wallbridge today.
He’s always open to a conversation about the market, upcoming projects, and the opportunities shaping the future of the Data Centre industry.
👉 Connect with Jack or drop him an email at jw@prestonrecruitment.com