Operational Technology Engineer

Daystar Power Group is a Pan-African provider of solar and hybrid power solutions, offering its systems on a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), fixed monthly fee lease, or buy-out basis. All our solutions are accompanied by comprehensive maintenance services, to ensure the solutions run 365 days a year. We are currently operational in seven countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, and have recently launched in South Africa and Tanzania.

Daystar Power Group is looking to engage competent and experienced Operational Technology Engineer whose primary objective will be to drive and ensure implementation of the Operational Technology (OT) Security standard and ensure reliable, secure, and efficient functioning of industrial control system (ICS) that manage and automate critical operations.

The incumbent will be responsible for designing, implementing, and maintaining systems that control and automate industrial processes. This includes working with SCADA, PLCs, and other industrial control systems (ICS) to ensure the reliable and secure operation of critical infrastructure and production environments. The OT Engineer collaborates closely with field service and IDT teams to bridge the gap between operational technologies and information technologies.

We are seeking a hardworking, motivated, and well-organised individual with a focus on continuous improvement to exceed expectations.

Daystar Power Group is an equal-opportunity employer committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit all forms of discrimination and harassment based on race, colour, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Qualified women are encouraged to apply.

Key responsibilities:

• Ensure systems meet operational requirements and are aligned with industry best practices.
• Perform routine maintenance and troubleshooting of OT systems to ensure minimal downtime. Respond to system malfunctions and optimize performance for operational efficiency.
• Work with IT teams to integrate OT systems with IT networks, ensuring secure data flow and system interoperability. Implement best practices for network security and system architecture.
• Lead the planning, design, and implementation of new OT projects and upgrades, managing budgets, timelines, and cross-functional teams.
• Identify and mitigate risks related to OT system failures, downtime, and cyber threats. Develop contingency plans and disaster recovery strategies for critical OT systems.
• Develop and implement automation solutions to improve operational efficiency. Program and configure industrial controllers (PLCs) to automate workflows and enhance process control.
• Collect and analyze data from OT systems to optimize production processes. Provide insights on performance metrics, trends, and potential improvements.
• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and safety standards for OT systems. Maintain detailed documentation on system design, updates, and security measures.
• Coordinate with vendors for the procurement and installation of OT equipment. Manage and track OT assets and system updates to maintain hardware and software inventories.
• Participate in the evaluation of new technologies and best practices for improving operational efficiency, reliability, and cybersecurity in OT environments.
• Oversee the operation, maintenance, and continuous improvement of OT systems such as SCADA, PLCs, and other control systems.

Requirements

1. Education: Minimum of BSc/HND in Computer Science, Computer Engineering / Technology, or related field.

2. Experience: A minimum of 3+ years of experience in OT or industrial control systems. Experience with SCADA, PLCs and automation systems is essential.

3. Language Proficiency: English (excellent oral & writing skills).

4. Character:

• Self-motivated and demonstrate a sense of ownership with a high level of commitment and the ability to thrive under pressure.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to lead and work well in teams.
• Discretion in dealing with sensitive information.
• Highly organized with ability to manage multiple projects in parallel and prioritize competing demands, passion for renewable energy.

5. Technical Skills:

• Strong knowledge of ICS, SCADA, PLCs and other OT systems.
• Familiarity with OT cybersecurity practices, standards, and compliance.
• Experience with OT-IT integration and hybrid environments.
• CCNA certification is an added advantage.
• Must demonstrate proficiency with Microsoft Office (Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint in particular)

6. Leadership & Communication: Strong leadership, project management, and interpersonal communication skills to effectively work with both technical teams and stakeholders.

7. Problem-Solving Skills: Ability to troubleshoot complex technical problems and recommend innovative solutions.

8. Working Relationships

Internal: Field Service, IDT, NOC, Projects, Finance, Procurement & Warehouse

External: Third-Party Maintenance Vendors & stakeholders

Work Environment: This role typically involves working in both industrial/production environments and office settings, occasionally requiring on-site visits to operational facilities. Travel may be necessary depending on the scale of operations and projects

Benefits

• Opportunity to work in a forward-looking, innovative company, with international group of colleagues.
• Unlimited career opportunities - depending on achievements and personal development.
• A competitive salary and benefits package with long term prospect in a fast-growing company.

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.