Information Technology Analyst - Utilities Network​/Operations Technology

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.

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.

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.

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.

• 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…