REMOTE Network Engineer/Cisco/OT/Manufacturing

We are partnering with a leading manufacturing client who is looking for an experienced Network Engineer with expertise in Operational Technology (OT) and Manufacturing Systems. As a third-party agency, we are seeking a professional who can support the integration, optimization, and security of network infrastructure that connects IT and OT systems within a high-demand manufacturing environment.

In this critical role, you will be responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of network solutions that ensure smooth connectivity between enterprise systems and production technologies. You will also contribute to securing and optimizing the overall network performance for production facilities and industrial control systems.

Key Responsibilities:

• Design, deploy, and manage network infrastructure for OT and IT environments, with an emphasis on manufacturing systems.
• Ensure seamless connectivity between plant floor equipment, industrial control systems (ICS), SCADA, PLCs, and corporate IT infrastructure.
• Provide technical support and troubleshoot network-related issues in both IT and OT domains.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain secure, reliable, and high-performance networks across manufacturing operations.
• Conduct network assessments, security audits, and vulnerability assessments in OT environments.
• Work closely with IT teams to integrate manufacturing systems with enterprise-wide applications.
• Monitor network traffic and performance, ensuring minimal downtime and prompt identification and resolution of issues.
• Implement best practices for network security, ensuring compliance with relevant standards (e.g., NIST, IEC 62443).
• Support the design and optimization of IoT infrastructure that connects machines, sensors, and devices for smart manufacturing initiatives.
• Provide training and support for operational staff in OT and manufacturing network best practices.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• Experience: At least 3-5 years of hands-on experience in network engineering, with a focus on OT and manufacturing environments.
• Technical Expertise:
  • Proficient in network design, configuration, and troubleshooting (Cisco, Juniper, or equivalent).
  • Familiarity with industrial protocols such as Modbus, Profibus, EtherNet/IP, OPC, and MQTT.
  • Experience with network security practices, particularly in OT environments (e.g., firewalls, segmentation, access control).
  • Knowledge of SCADA, PLCs, DCS, and other manufacturing-specific systems.
  • Strong understanding of IP networking, routing, switching, VLANs, and VPNs.
  • Familiarity with network monitoring tools and protocols (Wireshark, SNMP, NetFlow).
  • Experience with cloud technologies and IoT is a plus.
• Certifications:
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) or higher.
  • Additional OT/ICS certifications (e.g., Global Industrial Cyber Security Professional (GICSP), Certified SCADA Security Architect (CSSA)) are a plus.
• Problem-Solving: Strong troubleshooting skills with the ability to resolve issues in high-pressure environments.
• Communication: Excellent communication skills, able to work with both technical and non-technical teams.
• Team Player: Ability to collaborate effectively with IT, engineering, and production teams.

Desired Attributes:

• A strong understanding of how OT networks differ from traditional IT networks.
• Passionate about staying current with emerging technologies in manufacturing and industrial networking.
• Proactive and self-motivated with a keen attention to detail.