LEAD Cybersecurity Consultant WITH OT

Job Title: Lead OT Cyber Security Consultant – OT & SCADALocation : San Diego, CA (Onsite)Duration: ContractOverviewWe are seeking a highly experienced Cyber Security Lead Consultant with deep expertise in Operational Technology (OT), Industrial Control Systems (ICS), and SCADA environments. The ideal candidate will provide strategic security leadership, drive the development of robust cybersecurity architectures, and lead implementation and governance across complex industrial environments. This role requires a strong blend of technical depth, consulting experience, and stakeholder management skills.Key Responsibilities1. OT/ICS/SCADA Cybersecurity LeadershipLead cybersecurity programs for OT, ICS, and SCADA systems across industrial environments (e.g., energy, utilities, manufacturing, oil & gas, transportation).Develop and maintain OT cybersecurity strategies aligned with ISA/IEC 62443, NIST 800-82, and relevant industry frameworks.Conduct OT/ICS network segmentation, risk assessments, and security posture reviews.2. Technical Architecture & ImplementationDesign secure OT network architectures, including DMZs, firewalls, jump servers, remote access, segmentation, and anomaly detection systems.Guide deployment of security technologies such as SIEM, IDS/IPS, endpoint protection, asset inventory tools, and OT monitoring solutions.Evaluate and secure PLCs, RTUs, HMIs, DCS, SCADA and other industrial automation components.3. Security Assessments, Testing & CompliancePerform threat modeling and risk assessments for ICS/OT systems.Conduct or lead penetration testing and vulnerability assessments tailored to OT environments.Ensure compliance with corporate policies, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.Prepare security documentation, gap analyses, maturity assessments, and roadmaps.4. Incident Response & Threat ManagementDevelop and lead OT-specific incident response playbooks.Manage and respond to cybersecurity incidents affecting industrial environments.Collaborate with IT, Engineering, Operations, and external stakeholders to enhance detection and response capabilities.5. Consulting, Governance & Stakeholder EngagementAct as the primary cybersecurity advisor to senior leadership, engineering teams, and plant operations.Mentor and guide junior consultants and technical staff.Lead workshops, training sessions, and security awareness programs for OT personnel.Translate complex security issues into clear, actionable recommendations for business leaders.Required Skills & ExperienceTechnical Expertise8+ years in Cybersecurity with at least 5 years in OT/ICS/SCADA environments.Strong knowledge of ICS/OT architectures, communication protocols (Modbus, DNP3, OPC, Profinet, etc.), and industrial network design.Hands-on experience with PLCs, DCS, SCADA, RTUs, HMIs, historians, and related components.Strong understanding of security tools used in OT (Nozomi, Claroty, Dragos, Tenable.ot, etc.).Proven experience with SIEM, IDS/IPS, firewalls, NAC, and secure remote access solutions.Frameworks & StandardsISA/IEC 62443 (mandatory experience)NIST 800-82NERC CIP (added advantage)ISO 27001/27019MITRE ATT&CK for ICSSoft Skills / LeadershipExcellent stakeholder communication and client-facing consulting skills.Strong project leadership, reporting, and documentation capabilities.Ability to work in high-pressure, safety-critical industrial environments.Preferred QualificationsBachelor’s or Master’s degree in Cybersecurity, Computer Science, Electrical/Industrial Engineering, or related field.Professional certifications such as:GICSP, GRID, CISSP, CISM, CISAISA/IEC 62443 Cybersecurity ExpertCEH, OSCP (advantageous)Experience working in energy, utilities, manufacturing, oil & gas, or critical infrastructure sectors.