Industrial Automation Specialist (Manufacturing OT)

ABOUT SLATE At Slate, we’re building safe, reliable vehicles that people can afford, personalize and love—and doing it here in the USA as part of our commitment to reindustrialization. The spirit of DIY and customization runs throughout every element of a Slate, because people should have control over how their trucks look, feel, and represent them. WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR The Operational Technology (OT) Specialist is responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of industrial control systems and automation infrastructure within our automotive manufacturing environment. This role serves as the critical bridge between Information Technology (IT) and plant floor Operations Technology, ensuring reliable, secure, and efficient production systems across body, assembly, paint, and production operations. WHAT YOU GET TO DO Systems Management & Maintenance Install, configure, and maintain OT systems including PLCs, HMIs, SCADA platforms, DCS, MES, ERP, and industrial networking infrastructure. Monitor the health and performance of plant floor automation systems to minimize unplanned downtime. Perform routine preventive maintenance, firmware updates, and patch management on OT assets in accordance with change control procedures. Maintain accurate asset inventories, network diagrams, and system documentation. IT/OT Integration Design and implement secure data pathways between IT enterprise systems (ERP, MES) and OT environments. Collaborate with manufacturing engineers and IT teams to support digital transformation initiatives such as IIoT, Industry 4.0, and real-time production analytics. Define and enforce network segmentation strategies (e.g., Purdue Model / ISA-95) to protect industrial assets. Cybersecurity & Compliance Implement and maintain OT cybersecurity frameworks aligned with NIST CSF, IEC 62443, and NERC CIP standards as applicable. Conduct vulnerability assessments and risk analyses on OT systems and connected devices. Respond to and investigate OT security incidents; develop and test incident response plans. Ensure compliance with internal IT/OT security policies and applicable regulatory requirements. Troubleshooting & Support Serve as escalation point for Tier 2/3 OT-related issues across production shifts. Diagnose and resolve hardware, software, and communication failures in industrial control systems. Provide on-call support for critical system outages impacting production. Projects & Continuous Improvement Lead or support capital projects involving new equipment installation, line retooling, or facility expansions. Evaluate and recommend OT technology upgrades to improve reliability, efficiency, and security. Develop and deliver training to maintenance technicians and plant floor personnel on OT systems usage and best practices. WHAT YOU BRING TO THE TEAM 8+ years related experience with Bachelor's degree, 6 years with Master's degree, 3 years with PhD or equivalent experience Technical Skills: Proficiency with PLC platforms (Allen-Bradley/Rockwell, Fanuc) Experience with SCADA and HMI software (FactoryTalk, Wonderware, Ignition) Solid understanding of industrial networking protocols: EtherNet/IP, PROFINET, Modbus, OPC-UA Working knowledge of industrial network architecture and managed switches (Cisco IE, Stratix, Ubiquiti) Familiarity with OT cybersecurity principles and tools Preferred Qualifications Minimum 3–5 years of hands-on OT/ICS experience in a manufacturing environment; automotive industry experience strongly preferred. Experience with robotic systems (Fanuc, Kawaski) Familiarity with automotive production systems (production control, body shop, coatings, general assembly) Knowledge of MES platforms (Apriso, SAP ME, Plex, Ignition’ Fuuz) Relevant certifications: GICSP, CompTIA Security+, CCNA Industrial, ISA/IEC 62443 Experience supporting lean manufacturing or Six Sigma environments Competencies Problem-Solving: Ability to diagnose complex, cross-domain issues under time pressure in a live production environment. Communication: Effectively conveys technical concepts to both plant floor technicians and senior OT/operations leadership. Collaboration: Works cross-functionally with engineering, maintenance, IT, and operations teams. Adaptability: Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, shift-driven manufacturing environment with changing priorities. Attention to Detail: Maintains rigorous documentation and follows change management procedures. Physical Requirements & Working Conditions Ability to work in a manufacturing plant environment, including exposure to noise, heat, and industrial equipment. Must be able to walk plant floors, climb ladders, and work in confined spaces as needed. Availability for on-call rotation and occasional off-shift or weekend work during planned maintenance windows or unplanned outages. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) required in production areas. WHY JOIN TEAM SLATE? At Slate, we’re fueled by grit, determination, and attention to detail. The start-up spirit of ingenuity and resourcefulness move our business forward. Team Slate fosters a culture of excellence, innovation, and mutual respect, and is motivated by shared principles. Safety First Delight Customers One Team Relentless Improvement Fast, Frugal, and Scrappy Respectful Collaboration Positive Legacy WE WANT TO WORK WITH PEOPLE THAT REFLECT THE COMMUNITIES IN WHICH WE OPERATE. Slate is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, marital status, parental status, cultural background, organizational level, work styles, tenure and life experiences. Or for any other reason. Slate is committed to providing reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities in our job application procedures. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, you may contact us at .