Lead OT Network Engineer in Runcorn

Lead OT Network Engineer

Reading, Berkshire

We are seeking an experienced Lead OT Network Engineer to join our growing Engineering & Automation team in Reading, Berkshire. You will lead the design, implementation, testing and commissioning of complex OT network solutions across a range of industrial sectors. This is an excellent opportunity to play a key role in delivering innovative industrial networking and cybersecurity solutions for industry-leading customers.

Key Responsibilities

• Champion MARCH's values and culture internally and externally.
• Ensure compliance with the Integrated Management System (IMS) and Health & Safety requirements.
• Lead and contribute to detailed Layer 2 and Layer 3 network designs throughout the project lifecycle.
• Provide technical governance and establish network design standards, templates, and best practices.
• Lead the cybersecurity configuration and implementation of network devices, including managed switches and firewalls.
• Coordinate with project teams to prepare and deliver network architecture diagrams, configuration documentation, and technical deliverables.
• Support the enquiry and bid teams by defining networking scopes and recommending cost-effective solutions.
• Conduct network surveys, assessments, and health checks within customer environments.
• Test, commission, and validate network solutions safely within operational industrial environments.
• Work closely with OT Cybersecurity teams to develop secure network architectures and IT/OT boundary solutions.
• Lead industrial networking projects through design, development, testing, and commissioning phases.
• Provide technical leadership and mentoring to project teams.
• Support automation projects when required, including PLC, HMI, and SCADA systems.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives, driving innovation and standardisation across the business.
• Act as a trusted technical advisor for customers and internal stakeholders.
• Attend customer sites and MARCH offices as required to support project delivery.

Skills, Experiences & Qualifications

• Experience in Systems Integration, Industrial Networking, or Automation.
• Background in Utilities, Manufacturing, Food & Beverage, FMCG, Chemical, Pharmaceutical, Process, or related industries.
• Degree, HND, or HNC in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Control Systems, or a similar discipline.
• Professional registration (IET or equivalent) desirable, with Chartered status or progression towards it an advantage.
• Proven experience designing, implementing, testing, and commissioning OT network solutions.
• Strong understanding of OSI and TCP/IP networking models.
• Experience delivering projects across the full lifecycle, from design through to commissioning.
• Solid Layer 2/3 networking knowledge, including switching, routing, VLANs, and resilient architectures.
• Experience with firewalls and secure IT/OT network segmentation.
• Knowledge of industrial protocols such as PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, MQTT, SNMP, DNS, and DNP3.
• Experience with cloud platforms, including Microsoft Azure and AWS.
• Skilled in network monitoring, troubleshooting, and documentation.
• Strong communication, technical writing, and stakeholder management skills.
• Vendor-neutral networking knowledge; experience with Cisco, Siemens, Hirschmann, Moxa, or Fortinet beneficial.
• Relevant networking certifications desirable.
• Strong problem-solving, organisational, and self-management skills.
• Full UK driving licence.

Technology Portfolio

• Industrial Networking (Layer 2 & 3)
• Industrial Ethernet, Switching & Routing
• Firewalls & IT/OT Security
• OT Cybersecurity & Intrusion Detection
• Industrial Protocols (PROFINET, Ethernet/IP, Modbus TCP, MQTT, SNMP, DNP3)
• Cloud Networking (Azure, AWS)
• PLC, HMI & SCADA Systems
• Telemetry & Remote Monitoring
• Data Analysis, Reporting & Databases
• IT Infrastructure

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• A permanent full-time position
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• Enhanced pension contribution
• Ongoing internal training and clear career development pathways
• A supportive employer committed to employee Wellbeing
• Genuine opportunities for career progression within a growing business
• Access to employee flex benefits portal

About Us

We are MARCH. The leading provider of critical engineering services. Supporting the industries we all rely on to improve their infrastructure, process, and digital environments. We work together with our customers to maintain business continuity, optimise output, and drive new standards in productivity, reliability, and sustainability. We help deliver operational resilience, increased performance, and better environmental outcomes, across the board.

Why March?

Progress is People.

MARCH has ambitious plans and central to our future growth is attracting, developing and retaining the very best talent. Whether your role is onsite or office-based, engineering or support, we offer opportunities for all our people to develop their careers and maximise their potential. MARCH is committed to building teams that reflect a wide range of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. We believe diverse thinking strengthens engineering, and we welcome applications from all backgrounds. If you need any adjustments during the recruitment process, just let the team know.

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