A large data center campus is, first, a multi-year construction project. That phase can employ hundreds to thousands of skilled trades workers, and for local electrical, mechanical and concrete contractors it is real, well-paid work.
Operations is a different picture. Permanent staffing is small relative to capital investment — technicians, electrical and mechanical staff, security, network operations, facilities. Those positions typically pay above regional medians and often do not require a four-year degree.
Both facts can be stated plainly at the same time. Projects that lead with a combined number invite the backlash that follows when residents discover the distinction on their own.
The useful local questions: how many permanent positions, at what wage range, over what period, and what share is committed to local or regional hiring with reporting attached?
This briefing is written by Kentucky For Data Centers. Primary documents and third-party studies referenced in our work are listed on the research page.