Operational Technology (OT) Networks and Automation Specialist

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Supporting the design and implementation of industrial networking projects including installations, modifications, and upgrades of routers, switches, firewalls.
• Researching best practices and collaborating with internal and external resources to propose and implement optimal network designs for different physical and virtual systems.
• Advising on device and network management strategies to ensure performance, availability, and cybersecurity.
• Maintaining detailed documentation of equipment and configuration (e.g., switches, servers, firewalls) for our Automation Community of Practice.
• Supporting the implementation of IT/OT convergence solutions utilized in industrial control environments such as Microsoft Active Directory, virtualization server clusters, NextGen firewalls, multifactor authentication, Demilitarized Zones (DMZ).
• Applying best practices for managing and securing Windows-based environments.
• Independently developing OT Cybersecurity focused solutions and automation projects with senior level oversight and guidance.
• Supporting the evaluation of legacy OT systems, offering strategic recommendations for improvements, migrations, or replacements.
• Creating basic to moderately complex control system architectures, network segmentation diagrams, and specifications with general direction.
• Preparing design reports under supervision.
• Reviewing basic to moderately complex level shop drawings consisting of network segmentation plans, firewall policies, Windows configurations, and cybersecurity project plans.
• Providing support for as-needed and on-call contracts.
• Traveling nationally or internationally as required to project sites, client meetings, factory tests, and start-up of control systems.
• Performing other duties as required.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree.
• 5 years of relevant experience.
• Equivalent additional directly related experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• Domestic and/or international travel may be required.
• Intermediate knowledge of network technologies, including VLANs, routing, and Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFW).
• Intermediate knowledge of Windows based environments.
• Intermediate knowledge of virtualization environments (e.g., VMware, Hyper-V).
• Fundamental to intermediate knowledge of cybersecurity principles relevant to OT industrial settings.
• Fundamental understanding of SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and DCS (Distributed Control Systems) configuration and implementation.
• Familiarity with network protocols, architecture, and configuration, including Modbus, DNP3, EtherNet/IP, and OPC.
• Familiarity with industry regulations, standards, and frameworks such as NIST CSF, NIST 800-82, and ISA 62443.
• Understanding of cloud-based or edge computing solutions as they relate to OT systems.
• Awareness of disaster recovery, business continuity, and system resilience planning in OT settings.
• Strong communication skills both verbally and written.
• Strong time management skills and ability to multi-task and prioritize assignments.

Nice to Have

• CompTIA A+/Network+/Security+, Cisco CCNA, or other vendor certifications such as Microsoft, Palo Alto, or Fortinet.
• Sector-specific experience in water/wastewater, facilities, or transportation.
• Familiarity with SCADA/ICS cybersecurity assessments and mitigation strategies.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience.
• 5 years of relevant experience.

Benefits & Perks

• Support for learning and growth in a challenging and progressive work environment.
• Opportunities to work on meaningful projects across various disciplines and locations.
• A challenging, inclusive work environment that fosters personal leadership, career growth, and development.
• Supportive co-workers invested in your success.