Position Summary The OT Network Administrator is responsible for the design, installation, operation, maintenance, troubleshooting, repair and security of the critical data communications network and infrastructure supporting utility operations. This includes configuration and operation of the network communications hardware for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) and other telecommunication systems that support the reliable operation of the electric transmission and distribution system. This position will serve in a liaison capacity and work closely with the Engineering and Information Technology (IT) teams to bridge the gap between Operations Technology (OT) and Information Technology (IT) to ensure continuous utility operations. The core responsibilities of the OT Network Administrator include the following:
Network Administration :
- Design, deploy and maintain both wired and wireless networks utilized for the operation of substations and smart meters.
Cybersecurity Compliance:
Enforce industry standard regulations and implement firewalls, encryption, and intrusion detection.
Performance Monitoring:
Analyze network traffic, latency, and packet loss to maximize uptime. Qualifications
- Three years of experience telecommunications, networking, utility communications, or related technical field.
- Bachelor's degree in Electronics, Telecommunications, Information Technology, or related field preferred - or equivalent combination of education and experience.
- Hands-on experience with fiber optic systems, radio communications, SCADA, network design, and physically repairing, splicing, terminating, and testing communication medium such as fiber and copper.
- Current certifications or ability to obtain required certifications related to communications systems and utility operations.
- Certifications such as CompTIA Security+, CCNA, GCIH, GIAC GICSP, GSEC, SSCP, FOA or
FCC GROL
are preferred.
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Possess and maintain a valid state driver's license. Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
- Knowledge of routing and switching protocols, to include but not limited to, Open Shortest Path First (OSPF), Spanning Tree Protocol (STP), Multicast, Virtual LAN (VLAN), Access Lists, Authentication, Authorization and Accounting (AAA), Network Address Translation (NAT).
- Proficient with Domain Name System (DNS), Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP), Secure Shell (SSH), Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), and other network support software.
- Skilled at working with routers, switches, firewalls, and wireless application protocol (WAP)s.
- Working knowledge of communication networks, telecommunications equipment, and data systems.
- Management of telecommunications equipment including cellular (LTE/4G/5G), satellite, mesh networks, fiber optics, and microwave communication links.
- Knowledge of fiber optic cable installation, termination, testing, and troubleshooting.
- Familiarity with SCADA systems and electric utility operations.
- Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical, electrical, electronic, and communication system documentation, drawings and schematics.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office and computer-based diagnostic software.
- Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.
- Ability to safely operate vehicles, test equipment, and specialty tools.
- Ability to work outdoors in varying weather conditions and occasionally in elevated work locations.
- Ability to respond to after-hours outages and emergency situations.
- Takes initiative and is self-motivated.
- Proven ability to research and solve complex technical problems.
- Ability to work independently, organize work, meet deadlines and collaborate with others across the organization as part of a team.
- Regularly lift and carry up to 20 pounds and infrequently required to lift, push and pull up to 40 pounds. Competencies
- Communication
- Safety Awareness and Participation
- Developing and Maintaining Working Relationships
- Technical/Professional Knowledge and Skills
- Continuous Learning
- Customer Focus
- Contributing to Team Success
- Initiating Action
- Problem Solving/Analysis
Innovation Duties and Responsibilities Network Administration:
a. Install, configure, maintain, and repair telecommunications backbone, and localized networks at substations and field locations. b. Support and maintain local area network, wide area network, and secure network segments utilized for Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA), substation automation, protection systems, and Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI). c. Ensure systems integration such as connecting field devices like Remote Terminal Units (RTUs), Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs), and smart meters to central head-end systems. d. Research and recommend networking hardware and software purchases including research on emerging products, services, protocols, and standards as well as making recommendations to improve organization efficiency. e. Configure and troubleshoot network switches, routers, firewalls, remote communication devices and industrial protocols like DNP3 and Modbus. f. Utilize packet capture and analysis tools such as Wireshark to troubleshoot network communication issues. g. Assist with communications infrastructure design, system upgrades, and expansion projects. h. Analyze, diagnose, and resolve complex networking hardware and software problems. i. Perform routine inspections, preventive maintenance, and testing of communication equipment. j. Maintain accurate documentation, maps, drawings, and asset records for communication facilities. k. Coordinate with electric operations personnel to support substation, transmission, and distribution communications. l. Maintain spare equipment inventories and recommend replacement or upgrade requirements. m. Ensure communications facilities comply with applicable safety standards, regulatory requirements, and Cooperative policies. n. Support network communication needs during power restoration efforts and emergency response activities. o. Participate in the Cooperative strategy and associated initiatives.
Cybersecurity Compliance:
a. Support cybersecurity initiatives related to operational technology and communication networks. b. Support implementation of OT network segmentation aligned with cybersecurity best practices, including Purdue Model concepts. c. Participate in Incident Response functional test exercises and live events.
Performance Monitoring:
a. Monitor communication system performance and investigate outages or performance issues. b. Analyze network performance metrics including bandwidth utilization, latency, jitter, packet loss, and connectivity issues. This position requires that the employee be available for work outside the normal daily work period. Travel may be required within the OTEC service territory during the business day and infrequently overnight. Occasional out of the area travel is expected to attend various activities such as meetings, training, and other events. Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Additional Information:
OTEC employees are dedicated to providing safe, reliable energy and a high level of service excellence to our members. A career at OTEC includes many benefits. We offer our employees work/life balance, comprehensive medical, dental and vision plan options, retirement benefits, continued professional development and training, and more. OTEC is committed to hiring the best qualified persons to perform the tasks involved in providing high quality service to its members. In fulfilling that commitment, OTEC shall provide equal employment opportunities to all persons seeking employment, and shall see that its hiring practices, working conditions, benefits and privileges of employment, compensation, training, opportunities for advancement (including upgrading and promotion) and transfers and termination of employment (including layoffs and recalls) are such that there is no discrimination as to employees of OTEC because of race, color, religion, national origin, gender, age, veteran status, marital status, pregnancy, parenthood or disability. OTEC is an alcohol and drug-free employer.