OT Engineer

We are seeking a skilled OT (Operational Technology) Engineer to join our team for a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility build project. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in implementing and managing OT systems, with a focus on bridging IT and OT in a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment. You will be instrumental in ensuring the integration and optimization of OT infrastructure, contributing to the project’s overall success by enhancing operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.

Key Responsibilities

OT System Design and Implementation:
Design, configure, and implement OT systems tailored to support manufacturing operations. Ensure seamless integration between OT and IT systems while maintaining system robustness, scalability, and reliability.
Network and Infrastructure Management:
Work closely with IT and automation teams to develop and maintain OT networks, ensuring optimal performance and security. Oversee the configuration and management of industrial control systems (ICS), network devices, and communication protocols.
Security and Risk Mitigation:
Implement and enforce OT cybersecurity best practices in accordance with regulatory and industry standards. Conduct risk assessments and develop strategies to protect OT assets from potential threats and vulnerabilities.
Project Coordination:
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including project managers, engineers, vendors, and IT teams to ensure the effective execution of the OT-related tasks throughout the project lifecycle. Provide subject matter expertise from planning through commissioning and operations.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure all OT systems are compliant with FDA regulations, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), and other applicable standards. Assist in developing and implementing validation protocols for OT systems.
Testing, Commissioning, and Validation:
Develop and execute test plans for OT systems, conduct commissioning, and support validation activities. Ensure that OT systems perform reliably and meet the project’s functional and compliance requirements.
Documentation and Reporting:
Prepare comprehensive documentation, including system architecture diagrams, network configurations, and operational procedures. Provide regular updates on project status, including risk assessments and mitigation strategies, to project stakeholders.
Support and Training:
Provide ongoing support for OT systems, including troubleshooting and issue resolution. Develop training materials and deliver training sessions for facility personnel on OT infrastructure and cybersecurity best practices.
Continuous Improvement:
Identify opportunities to enhance OT systems and processes to improve operational efficiency. Keep abreast of the latest trends in OT, cybersecurity, and industrial control technologies, and recommend improvements to ensure the facility remains at the forefront of innovation.

Requirements

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Automation Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, ISA/IEC 62443) are a plus.
Minimum of 10 years of experience working with OT systems in a pharmaceutical manufacturing environment or a similarly regulated industry. Demonstrated experience with the design, configuration, and management of OT/ICS networks.
In-depth knowledge of OT systems and industrial control system (ICS) protocols (e.g., Modbus, OPC, Ethernet/IP). Experience with integrating OT and IT networks, as well as proficiency in ICS cybersecurity practices.
Familiarity with regulatory requirements including FDA regulations, GMP, and industry-specific standards related to cybersecurity (e.g., NIST, IEC 62443). Experience with system validation and maintaining compliance in a regulated environment.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, excellent communication abilities, and the capability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team. Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with other automation platforms and control systems.
Knowledge of network segmentation, firewalls, and cybersecurity principles specific to OT environments.
Project management experience or certifications (e.g., PMP).
Experience with industrial automation cybersecurity standards, such as ISA/IEC 62443 or NIST frameworks.

Soft Skills

Cross-Cultural Communication
Adaptability and Flexibility
Team Collaboration and Interdisciplinary Skills
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
Emotional Intelligence
Time Management and Prioritization
Ethical Awareness and Sustainability Focus
Conflict Management
Stakeholder Engagement
Continuous Learning Mindset

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General Information

Vacancy: 019

Location: Europe

Contract type: 1 year rolling contract, consulting contract.

Project duration: 1-2 years.

How to Apply?

If you’re interested in this role, we’re looking forward to hear from you! Kindly apply via the JTR Consultancy Services website with your CV in Word Document version – one of our Business Development Managers will be in touch with you shortly.