Title: Sr. Operational Technology Network Architect
Location: Manassas, VA
Position: Hybrid (3 days onsite/2 days remote)
Duration: 6 Months Contract to hire.
JOB DESCRIPTION
- Design and implement OT network architecture for industrial control systems (ICS) and operational technologies.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure integration between IT and OT environments.
- Develop and enforce network security policies and protocols for OT systems.
- Monitor and analyze network performance and security incidents.
- Conduct risk assessments and vulnerability assessments specific to OT environments.
- Define and configure ring topologies for all OT Core network sites and firewall policies to restrict traffic flow between segments and prevent unauthorized access to OT assets.
- Deploy redundancy and resilience mechanisms for critical OT switches to minimize downtime and ensure continuous operation.
- Establish backup and restore procedures for Extreme network switch configurations and firmware specifically for the OT network.
- Develop failover and recovery plans tailored to the OT network environment.
- Document the DR plan for the OT network switching infrastructure, including procedures, configurations, contact information, and recovery strategies.
- Stay updated on industry trends, emerging technologies, and regulatory requirements.
- Ensure that the DR plan for the OT network complies with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements, such as NERC CIP standards or industry-specific regulations governing OT security and resilience.
- Assist/Support other network-related tasks/requirements as directed by management.
- Available On-Call to assist with trouble tickets as needed.
- Manage projects and deliver on time with periodic status reports to management.
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS
- 5+ years of experience in network design and architecture, preferably in OT environments.
- Experience with industrial protocols (e.g., Modbus, DNP3, OPC, Ethernet/IP).
- Familiarity with IT/OT convergence principles.
DESIRED SKILLS
- Strong understanding of networking concepts, including routing, switching, and firewall configurations.
- Proficiency in network monitoring and management tools.
- Knowledge of cybersecurity best practices for OT networks.
- Experience with industrial control systems (ICS) and SCADA systems.
MINIMUM TECHNICAL EXPERIENCE
- Knowledge of design, configuration, installation, testing, and maintenance of local and wide area computer wired and wireless networks (Cisco Systems preferred).
- Knowledge of computer network characteristics, network operating system software, and network components
- Troubleshooting skills and the ability to diagnose/resolve network system problems.
- Ability to interpret and apply complex technical manuals and reference materials.
- Ability to assist with developing network security and related procedures; and performing network management activities.
EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer networks, or a related field.
- Certification in related fields (CCNA, CCNP) required. Security and Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE), and experience in Extreme network switches is a plus.
