Operational Technology Field Service Lead

Operational Technology Field Operations Lead

Job Summary

The Operational Technology (OT) Field Operations Lead supports the planning, coordination, and execution of OT system deployments across manufacturing facilities. This role focuses on field-level implementation of SCADA systems, industrial data collection platforms, and associated hardware, ensuring deployments align with defined OT standards, timelines, and operational expectations.

This position translates approved OT designs into successful field implementations and serves as a key execution resource within the department. The role provides technical recommendations and field leadership while operating within established OT strategy and architectural direction.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

Field Deployment Execution

• Lead field execution of OT system deployments, including SCADA installations, industrial data collection systems, and related hardware integrations
• Coordinate implementation activities to ensure alignment with approved OT architecture and standards
• Translate system designs into practical deployment plans for manufacturing environments
• Support commissioning and validation of deployed systems

Planning & Design Support

• Develop detailed deployment plans and field-level technical requirements
• Prepare project scopes, material lists, and implementation sequencing plans
• Provide input and recommendations for project cost estimates and resource planning
• Support CAPEX planning discussions through field-level analysis and implementation insight
• Recommend hardware components and installation approaches aligned with established OT strategy and standards

Vendor & Contractor Coordination

• Assist in evaluating vendors and contractors for field-related work
• Provide recommendations for contractor selection
• Supervise field execution once contractors are selected to ensure work meets defined standards
• Monitor installation quality, schedule adherence, and safety compliance
• Serve as the primary field-level liaison between the OT team and external vendors during project execution

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Serve as the primary liaison between the OT team and local plant installation teams during deployments
• Act as project liaison between the OT Team and the OT Software Services department to ensure implementation alignment
• Facilitate communication between OT leadership and field personnel throughout project execution
• Escalate risks, deviations, or technical concerns to OT leadership for resolution

Standards & Continuous Improvement

• Recommend improvements to installation standards, field documentation, and deployment workflows
• Provide feedback regarding hardware performance and field implementation effectiveness
• Support standardization initiatives through field validation and recommendation
• Maintain accurate deployment documentation and implementation records

Training & Knowledge Transfer

• Assist in training plant personnel and OT support staff on deployed systems
• Provide field insight to improve onboarding materials and support documentation

Minimum Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in Operational Technology, Industrial Automation, Manufacturing Systems, or related field.
• Demonstrated experience supporting OT or automation deployments in manufacturing environments
• Experience working with SCADA systems, PLC integrations, and industrial networking
• Experience preparing project scopes and supporting capital planning discussions
• Strong organizational, communication, and coordination skills
• Ability to travel to manufacturing facilities as required
• Ability to work safely in industrial environments and adhere to site-specific safety requirements

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience coordinating external contractors or vendors
• Familiarity with industrial data collection platforms and edge devices
• Experience standardizing field installation practices across multiple facilities

Working Conditions

• Frequent travel to manufacturing facilities
• Work performed in industrial environments requiring adherence to safety protocols
• Standard business hours with flexibility based on deployment schedules