OT Cyber Security Specialist

Airswift is seeking an OT Cyber Security Specialist to join our client, a leading company in the oil & gas industry, for a rotational contract role based in Kitimat, BC. This position plays a critical role in supporting engineering activities aligned with the company’s strategic objectives. Reporting to the Lead OT Systems & Cybersecurity, the successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the cybersecurity of all control systems (DCS, SIS, IPS/F&G, and third-party systems) throughout the plant lifecycle. The role involves both project execution and operational support, with a strong focus on implementing best practices, maintaining resilient infrastructure, and driving strategic cybersecurity initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

Project Phase (Execute):

• Ensure resilient OT system architecture and configurations are designed and deployed.
• Support EPC contractor with OT systems security scope.
• Coordinate execution interfaces between Shell Infrastructure, EPC, MAC, and third-party vendors.
• Support handover of OT Security scope to Asset Operations team.
• Participate in project execution assurance activities per the Project Controls and Assurance Plan.

Operational Phase:

• Implement governance frameworks for OT/Control Systems cybersecurity.
• Define and execute strategic cybersecurity initiatives.
• Manage Threat & Opportunity (MTO) and Management of Change (MOC) processes.
• Ensure compliance with OT Cyber Security policies across control systems.
• Conduct design reviews, incident response, risk assessments, and infrastructure support.
• Perform periodic reviews of cybersecurity controls (access, firewall rules, logs).
• Identify and document noncompliance and recommend mitigation strategies.
• Provide technical recommendations for network and endpoint security.
• Act as Subject Matter Expert and Technical Authority.
• Mentor junior engineers and define competency development plans.

Leadership & Collaboration

• Demonstrate personal commitment to HSSE.
• Display a strong positive attitude toward change and continuous improvement.
• Build strong working relationships across teams and stakeholders.
• Utilize flexible thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Promote a One Team approach and & across disciplines.
• Influence and align cross-functional teams to ensure compliance and performance.
• Challenge current practices to drive innovation and digitization.

Qualifications

• University degree in Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Instrumentation & Controls, Chemical Engineering, Applied Physics, or Mathematics.
• 15+ years of experience in OT cybersecurity within oil & gas .
• Certified Professional Engineer in Cybersecurity.
• Strong knowledge of IEC62443, NIST SP 800-53, ISA-99.
• Hands-on experience with Cisco, Fortinet, Active Directory, SolarWinds, SPLUNK, antivirus and backup tools.
• Strong technical skills in network architecture, Windows security, and ICS cybersecurity.
• Excellent interpersonal, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
• Willingness to relocate temporarily to Kitimat for commissioning/start-up.

Additional Requirements

• Must pass background check for criminal and cybersecurity history.
• Pre-placement medical assessment and drug/alcohol testing required.
• Must comply with company’s drug-free and harassment-free policies.
• Strong collaboration with technical and operational teams is essential.