OT Security Expert (m/f/d)
Project information
- Start Date: 01 August 2026
- Initial Contract Duration: 12 Months
- Only independent freelancers will be considered; no consultants or employees of consulting, staffing, or professional services organizations (PSOs)
- Availability from project start date is required
Responsibilities
- Define and establish global OT cyber security standards with emphasis on network segmentation based on ISA-95/IEC 62443 zone & conduit models
- Design secure architectures tailored for industrial environments, focusing on device hardening for PLCs, SCADA, HMIs, and edge devices
- Implement OT cyber security programs in brownfield environments, including assessment and remediation of legacy systems and gradual segmentation of flat industrial networks without disrupting operations
- Develop and roll out network segmentation strategies across multi-site environments using firewalls, jump hosts, and secure remote access concepts to minimize attack surfaces
- Translate global cyber security standards into pragmatic site-level implementations by creating templates, blueprints, and rollout roadmaps
- Coach and collaborate with local engineering and IT/OT teams to embed security best practices
- Lead workshops, risk assessments, and design sessions to communicate OT security concepts clearly to non-expert stakeholders
- Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams including IT, OT, engineering, plant management, and global/local cyber security functions
Profile
- Profound knowledge of OT cyber security frameworks and regulations such as IEC 62443 (including parts 1-x, 2-x, 3-x, 4-x), NIS2 Directive, NIST Cyber Security Framework and SP 800-series, ISO/IEC 27001
- Relevant experience in secure network segmentation design and rollout in industrial contexts
- In-depth expertise in implementing security controls in brownfield environments, ensuring minimal operational disruption
- Strong skills in stakeholder management and cross-functional collaboration in complex industrial settings
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills, capable of explaining technical OT security topics to diverse audiences
- IT skills including MES software, Siemens machine control (S-series), and networking knowledge
- English at native speaker level; fluent German is advantageous but not mandatory
- Willingness to travel occasionally within specified regions for onsite work
- Proven experience in manufacturing environments is mandatory
- Experience within the chemical industry is highly preferred
- Deliver the majority of work remotely with occasional travel to sites in Krefeld, Düsseldorf, Geleen, and Genk for key workshops and assessments
Benefits
- Interesting tasks in a multinational environment
- A highly motivated team and an open way of communication
About Hays
IT is and always has been our core business that laid the foundation for Hays' success. We are the biggest privately owned IT recruitment agency in Germany and offer the best jobs for every career level – whether you are interested in vacancies in agile SMEs or international DAX groups. Hays masters the entire IT job spectrum, from support to software architecture or digitalisation – thanks to our broad portfolio, we have something for everyone. In the last decades, we were able to support numerous IT experts with choosing the right path for a successful career, positioning ourselves as their lifelong partner. Our highly specialised consultants can cater to your every wish and expectation and will prepare you for interviews and contract negotiations. Give it a try and learn what the market has to offer – our services are free of charge, non-binding and discreet! We look forward to hearing from you.
Staffing process for freelance specialists
- Analysis of qualifications
- Telephone or personal interview
- Contact with customers
- Contract with Hays
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1. Analysis of qualifications
We carry out a detailed analysis of your technical qualifications on the basis of your CV, your application documents and your profile.
Contact at Hays
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