Security Architect - OT - Operational Technology

identifi Global Resources; Preston; On-site; GBP 129,150; Full time

Job summary

A notable organization in the defense sector is seeking a Security Architect specializing in Operational Technology. The role involves defining and governing the architecture of secure operational systems essential for military and security infrastructure. Candidates need proven experience in IT/OT environments and a strong understanding of cyber security principles. The position offers hybrid working, requiring 2-3 days onsite in Preston, with a competitive rate of around £700 per day.

Qualifications

• Strong experience with IT/OT environments.
• Understanding of OT cyber security principles.
• Proven experience in complex environments.

Responsibilities

• Define and govern architecture of operational systems.
• Ensure OT environments are secure.
• Support IT/OT integration and data flow.

Skills

Experience as an Architect in complex environments

IT/OT environments knowledge

Industrial control system architectures

OT cyber security principles

Industrial networking and protocols understanding

Job description

Security Architect - OT - Operational Technology

Around £700p/d - Outside IR35

Hybrid working with 2-3 days onsite in Preston

6 months initially, with possible extensions due to the long-term nature of the programme.

DV or SC Cleared required

An exciting opportunity has arisen with a highly recognised organisation in the defence sector, focused on transforming and modernising military and security infrastructure through data-driven digital transformation, battlefield management systems, and advanced cybersecurity.

ABOUT THE ROLE

In this role you will be joining a bigger team of Security Architects delivering secure, mission-critical systems across the IT/OT environment for a defence client based in Preston.

You will be responsible for defining, designing, and governing the architecture of industrial and operational systems that control and monitor physical processes. The role ensures OT environments are secure, and acting as a technical authority across Industrial Control Systems (ICS), SCADA, and IIoT. You will provide strategic direction alongside hands‑on architectural leadership.

WHAT WILL YOU DO?

OT Architecture & Strategy

• Support long-term OT roadmaps, modernisation initiatives, and IT/OT convergence
• Define and maintain OT architecture principles, standards, and reference designs
• Design end-to-end OT solutions covering control systems, networks, data flows, and integrations
• Ensure architectures meet safety, availability, and operational resilience requirements
• Architect solutions across ICs, SCADA, DCS, PLCs, and HMIs
• Review designs, vendor solutions, and system changes for architectural compliance
• Produce clear architecture documentation, standards, and guidance
• Support integration of OT systems with enterprise IT, cloud, and data platforms
• Define standards for industrial protocols (e.g. Modbus, OPC UA, DNP3, IEC 61850)
• Embed security-by-design into OT architectures
• Define OT network segmentation, zoning, and access controls (Purdue Model / IEC 62443)
• Conduct risk assessments, threat modelling, and architecture assurance reviews
• Support compliance with safety and security regulations and standards

WHAT DO YOU NEED TO BE SUCCESFUL?

• Proven experience as an Architect in complex environments
• Strong experience with IT/OT environments and industrial control system architectures
• Understanding of OT cyber security principles and standards
• Experience with ICs/SCADA/DCS environments
• Knowledge of industrial networking and protocols
• Understanding of IT/OT integration and data flows
• Proven experience as an Architect in complex environments
• Previous experience working on MOD and defence project is desired, but not essential

For more information and immediate consideration please apply today. Immediate interviews available.