IT/OT Controls Engineer

E Tech Group
Portsmouth, United States of America
2 days ago

Role details

Contract type
Permanent contract
Employment type
Full-time (> 32 hours)
Working hours
Regular working hours
Languages
English
Experience level
Intermediate

Job location

Portsmouth, United States of America

Tech stack

Business Systems
ControlNet
Data Transformation
Data Structures
DeviceNet
Ethernet
Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA)
JSON
Jython
Python
Network Layer
PostgreSQL
Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT)
Network Architecture
OPC Unified Architecture
DataOps
Software Engineering
SQL Databases
Systems Integration
Web Services
Scripting (Bash/Python/Go/Ruby)
Enterprise Software Applications
Information Technology
REST
Legacy Systems

Job description

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced an IT/OT Controls Engineer to lead and contribute to the design and delivery of Unified Namespace (UNS) and IT/OT integration projects. This role is responsible for defining architecture requirements, developing detailed software design specifications, building and contextualizing industrial data models, and architecting DataOps solutions using platforms such as HighByte, HiveMQ, and Ignition. You will design and configure scalable, secure communications (MQTT/Sparkplug B, OPC UA, REST, and vendor-specific protocols) that connect shop floor equipment to MES and other business systems. This is a fantastic opportunity to own projects from concept through commissioning in a regulated manufacturing environment.

You will:

  • Design, develop, and implement Unified Namespace (UNS) solutions using HiveMQ (MQTT/Sparkplug B), HighByte Intelligence Hub, and Ignition.
  • Model and contextualize plant-floor data into standardized, ISA-95-aligned payload structures for consumption by MES, historians, and other business systems.
  • Integrate shop floor equipment and control systems with MES and enterprise applications using MQTT, OPC UA, REST APIs, and vendor-proprietary protocols.
  • Configure and maintain edge connectivity to PLCs, SCADA, and legacy systems (including OPC DA sources) and manage the flow of data northbound into the UNS.
  • Utilize scripting languages such as Python (including Ignition/Jython scripting) for automation, data transformation, and integration tasks.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional IT and OT teams to ensure seamless, secure integration across network layers.
  • Provide technical leadership and support for project implementation, testing, commissioning, and startup.
  • Develop and evaluate alternative architectures and system solutions that meet stated requirements.
  • Maintain and update project documentation appropriate to a regulated (GMP) environment and provide regular status updates to management and stakeholders.
  • Work successfully in a team environment focused on customer service and continuous improvement
  • Be an ambassador who embodies our Core Values, prioritizing the success of E Tech Group, our clients, and the professional development of our associates.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in a similar role.
  • Strong understanding of Unified Namespace concepts and MQTT/SparkplugB. Hands-on experience with HiveMQ or comparable brokers.
  • Experience with HighByte Intelligence Hub or similar industrial DataOps/data modeling platforms.
  • Experience with Ignition (gateway configuration, tag structures, scripting); Ignition certification a plus.
  • Experience with SQL/Postgres (For alarm/event and other interactions)
  • Proficiency in Python; familiarity with REST APIs, JSON payloads, and integrating web services.
  • Familiarity with SCADA systems and industrial data structures; experience with OPC UA and legacy OPC DA connectivity.
  • Experience integrating shop floor systems with MES, historians, or ERP.
  • Working knowledge of ISA-95 models and terminology, particularly as applied to UNS hierarchy design and MES integration.
  • Familiarity with ISA-88 batch control concepts a plus, given the biopharmaceutical manufacturing context.
  • Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and validation in a regulated environment; understanding of biopharmaceutical processes preferred.
  • Ability to work in a hybrid IT/OT environment, including an understanding of OT network architecture and segmentation (Purdue model awareness a plus).
  • Working knowledge of control system networks and controllers (Ethernet/IP, ControlNet, DeviceNet, etc.).
  • Proficiency in troubleshooting control systems and an understanding of process controls.
  • A DNA comprised of collaboration and teamwork.

Benefits & conditions

  • 401k + match + prompt enrollment. E Tech Group employees are 100% vested upon entry.
  • Prompt enrollment into Medical, Dental, and Vision benefits.
  • Generous paid time off that includes paid vacation, paid holidays, paid family leave and sick time off.
  • Learning and growth are key parts of the E Tech culture. We provide you with training and continuing education from day one, so you can advance your career. As an E Tech associate, you can unlock your greatest potential through challenges and opportunities.

About the company

At E Tech Group, joining our team means joining a group of passionate and forward-thinking experts. We're one of the largest engineering and system integration firms in the United States providing value for our clients through IT automation and control solutions for more than 30 years to the Life Sciences, Mission Critical, Metals & Mining, Warehousing & Distribution, and CPG/Food & Beverage industries. Our national and global scale allows us to help our clients develop and implement standardized solutions at any of their facilities regardless of physical location or the local resources available at that site.

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