Lead OT Network Engineer
Location: California preferred (Remote flexibility)
Company: Utility-scale Solar & Battery IPP
About the Role
We are seeking a Lead OT Network Engineer to design, implement, and maintain secure, scalable, and highly reliable network infrastructure supporting utility-scale solar and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
As a Lead OT Network Engineer, you will play a critical role in enabling real-time communication across geographically distributed assets, ensuring strong cybersecurity, and supporting seamless integration with the grid and energy markets. This position sits at the intersection of operational technology (OT) and IT, bridging plant-level systems with enterprise and cloud platforms.
Key ResponsibilitiesNetwork Architecture & Design
- Lead the design and deployment of network infrastructure across solar and BESS sites
- Develop scalable WAN, LAN, and wireless architectures connecting remote assets to control centers and cloud environments
- Standardize network configurations and architecture across multiple projects
Operations & Reliability
- Ensure high availability and performance of SCADA, EMS, and monitoring systems
- Oversee network monitoring, troubleshooting, and incident response
- Implement redundancy, failover, and disaster recovery strategies
Cybersecurity
- Design and enforce network security policies aligned with industry standards (e.g., NERC CIP where applicable)
- Implement firewalls, VPNs, and intrusion detection/prevention systems
- Conduct vulnerability assessments and lead remediation efforts
OT / IT Integration
- Integrate plant control systems (inverters, battery management systems, protection relays) with enterprise IT infrastructure
- Support industrial communication protocols such as Modbus, DNP3, and IEC 61850
- Collaborate with SCADA engineers and asset operations teams
Cloud & Data Connectivity
- Enable secure connectivity to cloud platforms such as AWS and Azure
- Optimize data flow from field devices to centralized systems
- Support analytics, monitoring, and asset performance tools
Leadership & Collaboration
- Mentor and guide junior engineers while setting technical direction
- Collaborate cross-functionally with engineering, cybersecurity, and operations teams
- Manage third-party vendors and network service providers
QualificationsRequired
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in network engineering, including at least 3 years in a lead role
- Experience in renewable energy, utilities, or industrial environments
- Strong expertise in routing and switching (Cisco, Juniper, or equivalent)
- Hands-on experience with industrial/OT networking
- Deep understanding of network security principles and tools
- Experience with VPNs, firewalls, and segmented network design
- Familiarity with SCADA systems and industrial communication protocols
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $150,000.00 - $180,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Employee discount
- Flexible schedule
- Health savings account
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Referral program
- Retirement plan
- Tuition reimbursement
Education:
Experience:
- OT: 3 years (Required)
- Renewable energy: 2 years (Required)
Location:
Work Location: Remote
