About the Role
Our client, a global leader in industrial automation and process control, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Remote Industrial Network Engineer to join their virtual engineering team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere within South Africa. You will be responsible for the design, implementation, and ongoing support of complex industrial network infrastructures, ensuring robust, secure, and high-performance connectivity for our clients' manufacturing and process facilities. The ideal candidate possesses a deep understanding of industrial protocols, network security best practices, and experience with various network hardware and software. You will collaborate closely with on-site teams and clients to troubleshoot network issues, optimize performance, and implement new network solutions. This role requires exceptional communication skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and the ability to manage projects and tasks autonomously in a remote setting. Your expertise will be crucial in maintaining the backbone of our clients' digital industrial operations, enabling efficient and reliable data flow across their critical systems.
Key Responsibilities
- Design, configure, and deploy industrial networks utilizing protocols such as Ethernet/IP, Profinet, Modbus TCP/IP, and others.
- Implement and manage network security measures, including firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection systems, specific to industrial environments.
- Monitor network performance and troubleshoot connectivity issues, latency, and bandwidth problems remotely.
- Perform regular network audits and vulnerability assessments to ensure system integrity.
- Develop and maintain comprehensive network documentation, including diagrams, configurations, and IP address management.
- Collaborate with client IT and OT teams to integrate industrial networks with enterprise systems.
- Provide remote technical support and guidance to field engineers and end-users.
- Stay abreast of emerging network technologies and cybersecurity threats in the Industrial IoT (IIoT) space.
- Assist in the planning and execution of network upgrades and migrations.
- Respond to critical network incidents and provide rapid resolution.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, or equivalent practical experience.
- Minimum of 7 years of experience in industrial network engineering, with a strong focus on OT (Operational Technology) environments.
- In-depth knowledge of industrial communication protocols and networking technologies.
- Proven experience with network security principles and tools for industrial control systems.
- Experience with network monitoring and analysis tools (e.g., Wireshark, SolarWinds).
- Proficiency in configuring network devices such as switches, routers, and firewalls from leading vendors.
- Excellent troubleshooting and problem-solving skills, with a systematic approach.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, capable of clearly explaining technical concepts to diverse audiences.
- Ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and meet deadlines in a remote setting.
- Relevant certifications such as CCNA Industrial, CCNP, or GICSP are highly desirable.
Benefits
- Our client offers a highly competitive salary, remote work flexibility, and a comprehensive benefits package including private medical aid, a retirement annuity, and potential for performance bonuses.
- You will have access to ongoing professional development, online training resources, and opportunities to work on cutting-edge industrial technology projects.
- This fully remote role allows for excellent work-life balance.
- Join a global industry leader and make a significant impact on the future of industrial connectivity from the comfort of your home.