Information Technology Analyst - Utilities Network/Operations Technology

Network Specialist is responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of complex network systems within an Operational Technology (OT) environment for Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Utilities Department. This position plays a crucial role in supporting the organization’s critical OT networks while adhering to industry standards and best practices for critical infrastructure. The successful candidate will collaborate with other maintenance groups, engineers and management to provide solutions that meet organizational goals. This position will perform tasks applicable to the Utilities’ Water, Wastewater, Collections, and Distribution systems and will be under the general supervision of the E&I Manager., * Configure, implement, and troubleshoot OT network devices, including switches, routers, firewalls, and specialized OT equipment (e.g. SCADA, PLCs, sensors, etc.)

• Design network layouts that work effectively with the OT needs of the facilities. This position will collaborate with the Automation Engineer and Operations staff to develop practical solutions.
• Implement security best practices to safeguard OT networks from cyber threats. Monitor and manage firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and conduct regular vulnerability assessments on OT networks.
• Provide timely support for OT network issues, including real-time incident response for network failures, performance degradation, or security breaches.
• Continuously monitor OT networks for performance, security threats, and potential risks. Optimize network traffic and ensure high availability and redundancy of critical systems.
• Maintain accurate and detailed documentation on network configurations, network topologies, and security protocols. Create regular reports on system performance, incidents, and security status for management.
• Provide guidance and training to technical staff on OT network management and security best practices. Provide guidance and training to non-technical staff on network utilization and best practices of OT networks.
• Ensure OT network operations comply with city policies, industry standards, and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with the E&I Manager and Automation Engineer in the development of actionable policies and procedures that secure the City’s OT networks.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions., Bachelor’s degree in computer science, Information Technology, Network Engineering, or a related field of study. Relevant certifications (e.g. CompTIA Network+, ISA/IEC 62443, CSSA, GICSP, CEH, CICP, or similar) are preferred. Minimum of 2-4 years of experience in OT/Industrial network environments. Experience in managing both IT and OT networks is highly desirable.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong understanding of networking protocols (e.g. TCP/IP, UDP, DNS, DHCP, VPNs, etc.), network troubleshooting, and network security best practices.
• Familiarity with OT systems, SCADA industrial control systems, sensors, and PLCs.
• Knowledge of cybersecurity principles related to OT networks, including firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and secure remote access for OT networks.
• Ability to diagnose and resolve complex technical issues quickly, with a focus on minimizing service disruptions to critical systems.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills to interact with management, operations, vendors, engineers, and coworkers. Ability to provide clear, concise reports and instructions as needed
• Ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including IT, OT, engineering, vendors, and management.
• Experience in managing OT network projects, including system upgrades, troubleshooting, and security implementations.
• Experience in working with radio telemetry systems and cellular communications is preferred.
• Experience in working within the water/wastewater industry is preferred., * Ability to frequently lift and/or exert up to 25 pounds of force and occasional exertion of 50 pounds of force.
• Ability to perform tasks that may require frequent and extended periods of standing, walking, and/or sitting
• Ability to use hands and arms to reach, feel, handle; repetitive motions such as typing or using hand tools.
• Position has standard vision requirements including long and short distance, and color differentiation.
• Ability to communicate verbally by means of spoken word and hearing to perceive proper equipment sounds, alarms and conversation.
• Ability to use basic hand tools, measuring devices, operating equipment (including motor vehicle).
• Frequent exposure to the risk of electrical shock.
• Exposure to working conditions both inside and outside.
• Occasional exposure to working at elevated platforms, ladders, etc.
• Exposure to vibration and bloodborne pathogens that may require the use of specialized PPE
• Potential exposure to loud work environments requiring appropriate PPE.

Pulled from the full job description

• Military leave
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Paid jury duty
• Flexible spending account
• Employee assistance program
• Disability insurance, * 401a Contribution (employee match not required)
• Bus Pass Program
• Education Assistance
• Employee Assistance Program
• Employee Suggestion Program
• Family and Medical Leave
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Group Health Insurance
• Group Dental Insurance
• Jury Duty Leave
• Life/Accidental Death Insurance
• Long-Term Care Insurance
• Military Leave
• Paid Holidays
• Promotion from Within
• Retirement/Pension Plan (State of NC)
• School Leave
• Shared Leave
• Short-Term Disability Insurance
• Sick Leave
• Training
• Vacation Leave
• Wellness Program