Digitization Engineer (IT/OT Integration)

Job Description:

The Digitization Engineer (IT/OT Integration) is responsible for bridging the gap between Information Technology (IT) and Operational Technology (OT) systems to enable smart manufacturing, data-driven operations, and digital transformation initiatives. This role focuses on integrating factory-floor equipment, control systems, and sensors with enterprise IT systems, ensuring secure, reliable data flow and interoperability across platforms.

Key Responsibilities:

System Integration & Architecture:

• Design, develop, and implement IT/OT integration architectures connecting PLCs, SCADA, MES, ERP, and cloud-based analytics platforms.
• Configure and deploy edge gateways, data collectors, and industrial connectivity solutions (e.g., OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus, REST APIs).
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop digital twins, dashboards, and data pipelines supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives.

Data & Connectivity:

• Establish and maintain real-time data acquisition from machines, sensors, and controllers for process monitoring and predictive analytics.
• Ensure data integrity, accuracy, and consistency across IT and OT layers.
• Work with IT teams to integrate factory data into enterprise databases, cloud systems, and business intelligence tools.

Cybersecurity & Compliance:

• Implement and maintain secure communication protocols between IT and OT networks.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to apply best practices for industrial network segmentation and access control.
• Ensure compliance with industry standards (e.g., ISA-95, NIST 800-82, IEC 62443).

Automation & Support:

• Support plant automation teams with digital tools that improve visibility, uptime, and efficiency.
• Troubleshoot communication and data flow issues between control systems and IT applications.
• Contributes to the deployment and scaling of IoT and smart manufacturing platforms.

Continuous Improvement:

• Identify opportunities for digital process optimization, automation, and predictive maintenance.
• Provide training and documentation for plant and IT teams on integrated systems.
• Stay current on emerging technologies in industrial networking, data integration, and Industry 4.0.

Qualifications:

Education & Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering, Computer Engineering, Industrial Automation, Computer Science, or related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in industrial automation, controls, or IT/OT integration.

Technical Skills:

• Experience with PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, Mitsubishi, etc.) and SCADA/HMI systems.
• Proficiency with industrial communication protocols (OPC UA, MQTT, Modbus TCP, EtherNet/IP).
• Familiarity with MES, ERP, or data historians (e.g., Ignition, Wonderware, ACTIVE Plant FIS).
• Working knowledge of databases (SQL, NoSQL) and cloud services (Azure, AWS, etc.).
• Understanding of networking fundamentals (TCP/IP, VLANs, firewalls, VPNs) and cybersecurity principles.
• Programming/scripting experience (Python, Node-RED, C#, or similar) a plus.

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication across engineering, IT, and operations teams.
• Self-driven, collaborative, and adaptable to a fast-paced digital transformation environment.

Certifications (Optional):

• ISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity Fundamentals
• Cisco CCNA Industrial
• Rockwell Automation or Siemens Integration Certifications
• Microsoft Azure IoT or AWS IoT certifications