Information Technology Analyst - Utilities Network/Operations Technology

City of Winston-Salem, NC; Winston-Salem (NC); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

City of Winston-Salem, NC is seeking a Network Specialist to design, implement, and maintain complex OT networks for the Utilities Department, including water, wastewater, and distribution systems. You will collaborate with engineers and operations to meet organizational goals and ensure high availability.

The role involves configuring OT devices (SCADA, PLCs, firewalls), enforcing security, documenting configurations, and training staff on OT network management, under the supervision of the E&I

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in computer science, IT, or network engineering.
• 2–4+ years of OT/industrial network experience.
• Certifications in OT security preferred.
• Experience with IT and OT networks is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Configure OT network devices and troubleshoot OT networks.
• Design OT network layouts with Automation Engineer and Operations staff.
• Implement security best practices and manage firewalls/IDS for OT networks.
• Provide real-time incident response for network failures and security breaches.
• Maintain documentation and reports on configurations, topologies, and security.

Skills

OT network design and troubleshooting

Security best practices

Documenting configurations and reports

Cross-functional collaboration

Network monitoring and incident

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor's degree in CS/IT/Network Engineering

Certifications in OT security (e.g., CompTIA Network+, ISA/IEC 62443, CSSA, GICSP, CEH, CICP)

Tools

SCADA

PLC/SCADA integration

Firewalls & IDS

VPN and secure remote access

Job description

Position Summary

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.

Qualification Requirements

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.

Essential Functions

• 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.

Education and Experience

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 effective 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.

Physical Requirements

• 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.

Special Requirements

Valid US Driver's License (upon hire)

OSHA Safety Training (within one year of hire)