OT Technical Lead (m/w/d)

About the role

Givaudan is hiring an OT Technical Lead (m/w/d) in Vernier, Switzerland, reporting directly to the OT & Automation Manager and joining the Engineering & Maintenance team. The role ensures the security, reliability and compliance of Operational Technology (OT) systems across the site, designs and validates OT architectures, manages cybersecurity risks and oversees industrial IT infrastructure in line with IT policies and GMP regulations. It is a hybrid remote/in-office position.

Key responsibilities

• Design and validate OT network architectures including segmentation, DMZs and firewalls, and implement cybersecurity controls based on IEC 62443, NIST SP 800-82, ISO 27001 and ISA 95.
• Carry out risk assessments including threat modelling and vulnerability scanning.
• Lead OT/IT convergence projects such as cloud OT, data historians and MES implementations, and ensure GMP compliance (21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11, CSV).
• Validate OT systems through IQ/OQ/PQ activities for computerized systems.
• Plan and implement OT projects, estimate costs, manage external vendors and OT budgets (Capex and OpEx).
• Mentor OT engineers, define OT standards (password policies, patch management, backups) and lead incident response for OT cybersecurity events.
• Monitor emerging OT technologies (Zero Trust, Edge Computing, AI-driven anomaly detection) and support Industry 4.0 and Smart Manufacturing projects.

Required profile

• Master's degree in Operational Technology, Computer Science or Cybersecurity.
• 7+ years of experience in OT environments (industrial IT, networks, cybersecurity) and 3+ years in a leadership role.
• Experience in GMP-regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, food & beverage or chemicals.
• Fluent English and French, able to explain technical concepts to non-technical partners.

Required skills

• OT systems (Windows/Linux servers, virtualization, IIoT) and industrial protocols (TCP/IP, Profinet, OPC UA, Modbus, DNP3).
• Cybersecurity standards and tools (IEC 62443, Palo Alto/Fortinet firewalls, Splunk, QRadar, Nessus, Wireshark).
• Project management (Agile, ITIL, COBIT) and compliance frameworks (GAMP 5, 21 CFR Part 11, Annex 11, SOX).
• Scripting (Python, PowerShell, SQL) and CSV/risk-based validation.

What we offer

• Health insurance, life insurance and retirement plan.
• Paid time off and family leave.
• Sport and leisure clubs, company shop and staff restaurant.
• Mobility allowance.