Career options in OT Security in Manufacturing Organisations

Operational Technology (OT) security is picking up rapidly as the attacks towards manufacturing and critical infrastructures grow. There is huge gap in the skilled security professional against the demand.

OT Security

Operational Technology security, is the practice of protecting industrial control systems (ICS), supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA) systems, and other operational technology systems from cyber threats. These systems are used to manage #criticalinfrastructure such as power grids, transportation networks, water treatment plants, and manufacturing processes etc. There is a general shortage of skilled OT security professionals due to following reasons:

1. Lack of Awareness: Many organizations are still not aware of the need for OT security, and they do not prioritize it. Therefore, they do not allocate resources or invest in hiring professionals in this area.
2. Complex Skill Set: OT security requires a unique skill set that combines knowledge of operational technology systems, IT security, and industrial control systems. Finding individuals who possess all these skills can be challenging.
3. Lack of Education and Training: There are relatively few educational and training programs that focus specifically on OT security. This means that there are not enough professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet the demand.
4. Competition with IT Security: IT security is a more established field, and it has been around for much longer. Many cybersecurity professionals prefer to focus on IT security as there are more job opportunities and better pay scales.
5. Sophostication of Threats: As threats to OT systems continue to evolve, there is a need for highly skilled professionals who can keep pace with the changing landscape. The lack of professionals with the necessary expertise can make it difficult for organizations to stay ahead of the threat curve.

Career options in OT Security

There is a range of options in the OT security domain accross the career ladder. This can be seen from various level of skills, expertise and experience as below:

1. OT Security Analyst:

An OT (Operational Technology) Security Analyst is responsible for analyzing and assessing the security of the OT environment. The following are the key roles and skills required for an OT Security Analyst:

Roles:

1. Analyze security risks to systems: The OT Security Analyst must analyze security risks associated with the OT environment and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
2. Monitor security events: The OT Security Analyst must monitor security events to identify potential security breaches or vulnerabilities.

Skills:

1. Knowledge of OT systems: The OT Security Analyst must have a deep understanding of OT systems, such as SCADA and DCS, and their associated protocols.
2. Cybersecurity knowledge: The OT Security Analyst must have knowledge of cybersecurity principles, such as threat analysis, risk assessment, security controls, and incident response.
3. Technical skills: The OT Security Analyst must have technical skills in areas such as network security, encryption, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and firewalls.
4. Analytical skills: The OT Security Analyst must have strong analytical skills to identify potential security threats and develop effective strategies to mitigate those threats.
5. Communication skills: The OT Security Analyst must have good communication skills to collaborate effectively with other members of the OT security team and stakeholders from other departments.
6. Problem-solving skills: The OT Security Analyst must be able to identify and solve complex security problems in a timely and effective manner.

2. OT Security Engineer:

An OT (Operational Technology) Security Engineer is responsible for implementing, monitoring, and maintaining the security of the OT environment. The following are the key roles and skills required for an OT Security Engineer:

Roles:

1. Implement security controls: The OT Security Engineer must implement security controls to protect OT systems from cyber threats.
2. Monitor OT environment: The OT Security Engineer must monitor the OT environment for potential security breaches or vulnerabilities.
3. Respond to security incidents: The OT Security Engineer must respond to security incidents in a timely and effective manner.
4. Test security measures: The OT Security Engineer must test security measures to ensure that they are functioning as intended.

Skills:

1. Knowledge of OT systems: The OT Security Engineer must have a deep understanding of OT systems, such as SCADA and DCS, and their associated protocols.
2. Cybersecurity knowledge: The OT Security Engineer must have knowledge of cybersecurity principles, such as threat analysis, risk assessment, security controls, and incident response.Knowlwdge of Cybersecurity Standards like IEC 62443, NERC-CIP, ISO27019 etc
3. Technical skills: The OT Security Engineer must have technical skills in areas such as network security, encryption, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and firewalls.
4. Analytical skills: The OT Security Engineer must have strong analytical skills to identify and address potential security threats.
5. Communication skills: The OT Security Engineer must have good communication skills to collaborate effectively with other members of the OT security team and stakeholders from other departments.
6. Problem-solving skills: The OT Security Engineer must be able to identify and solve complex security problems in a timely and effective manner.

3. OT security Architect/Specialist

3An OT Security Architect is responsible for designing and implementing security solutions for Operational Technology (OT) systems, such as industrial control systems (ICS) and other critical infrastructure. Their main focus is to ensure that OT systems are protected from cyber threats and vulnerabilities that could lead to system disruptions, data loss, or safety risks.

The role of an OT Security Architect typically includes the following responsibilities:

1. Conducting risk assessments: The OT Security Architect should identify potential threats and vulnerabilities to OT systems and develop risk assessments to prioritize mitigation strategies.
2. Designing security solutions: Based on the risk assessments, the OT Security Architect should design and implement security solutions that will protect OT systems from cyber threats. This could include firewalls, intrusion detection systems, secure remote access mechanisms, and other security controls.
3. Reviewing system architecture: The OT Security Architect should review the system architecture of OT systems to ensure that security controls are properly integrated and implemented.
4. Collaborating with other stakeholders: The OT Security Architect should work closely with other stakeholders, such as IT and operations teams, to ensure that security solutions are aligned with the needs of the organization.

The following are some of the key skills required to become a successful OT Security Architect:

1. Strong technical expertise: The OT Security Architect should have a deep understanding of OT systems, including their architecture, protocols, and security risks. They should also be familiar with security standards such as ISA/IEC 62443 and NIST 800-82.
2. Analytical skills: The OT Security Architect should be able to analyze complex security issues and develop solutions that are effective and practical.
3. Communication skills: The OT Security Architect should be able to communicate security issues and solutions to both technical and non-technical stakeholders.
4. Project management skills: The OT Security Architect should be able to manage projects effectively, including scoping, scheduling, and resource management.
5. Collaboration skills: The OT Security Architect should be able to work collaboratively with other stakeholders, such as IT and operations teams, to ensure that security solutions are aligned with organizational needs.
6. Continuous learning: The OT Security Architect should stay up-to-date with emerging security threats and technologies and be willing to continuously learn and adapt to new challenges.

4. Head of OT Security

The Head of OT Security is responsible for overseeing the entire OT security program, including designing and implementing security policies and procedures, managing the OT security team, and ensuring that the OT environment is secure from cyber threats. The following are the key roles and skills required for the Head of OT Security:

Roles:

1. Develop OT security strategy: The Head of OT Security must develop an OT security strategy that aligns with the organization's overall security strategy and goals.
2. Oversee OT security team: The Head of OT Security must manage and oversee the OT security team, ensuring that team members have the necessary skills and resources to carry out their duties effectively.
3. Develop and implement security policies: The Head of OT Security must develop and implement security policies and procedures that are in line with industry standards and regulations. Knowlege of security standards like ISO 27001, IEC/ISA62443 etc is required.
4. Evaluate risks: The Head of OT Security must identify and evaluate risks that may pose a threat to the OT environment and develop strategies to mitigate those risks.
5. Collaborate with stakeholders: The Head of OT Security must collaborate with stakeholders from other departments to ensure that OT security measures are properly integrated into the overall security program.

Skills:

1. Leadership skills: The Head of OT Security must have strong leadership skills to manage and inspire the OT security team.
2. Cybersecurity knowledge: The Head of OT Security must have deep knowledge of cybersecurity principles, such as threat analysis, risk assessment, security controls, and incident response.
3. Technical skills: The Head of OT Security must have technical skills in areas such as network security, encryption, intrusion detection and prevention systems, and firewalls.
4. Communication skills: The Head of OT Security must have excellent communication skills to effectively communicate the importance of OT security to stakeholders from other departments.
5. Strategic thinking: The Head of OT Security must have the ability to think strategically and develop long-term plans to improve the security of the OT environment.
6. Analytical skills: The Head of OT Security must have strong analytical skills to identify potential security threats and develop effective strategies to mitigate those threats.
7. Project management skills: The Head of OT Security must have strong project management skills to oversee the implementation of security policies and procedures.

5. Chief Information Security Officer (CISO)

The Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) of a Critical Infrastructure or Manufacturing Organisation plays a crucial role in safeguarding the organization's information assets, including critical infrastructure and manufacturing systems. Here are some of the roles, responsibilities, and skills required for a CISO in such an organization:

Roles:

1. Develop and Implement Security Strategies: The CISO is responsible for developing and implementing a security strategy that addresses the unique security risks of the organization.
2. Conduct Risk Assessments: The CISO must conduct regular risk assessments to identify the organization's vulnerabilities and potential threats. Knowlege of security standards like ISO 27001, IEC/ISA62443 etc is necessary.
3. Manage Incident Response: The CISO must be able to respond to security incidents quickly and efficiently.
4. Establish Security Policies and Procedures: The CISO must establish security policies and procedures that meet regulatory compliance requirements and align with industry best practices.
5. Build and Manage Security Teams: The CISO must build and manage a team of security professionals who are responsible for implementing the organization's security strategy.
6. Provide Security Awareness Training: The CISO must provide security awareness training to all employees, contractors, and vendors to ensure that they understand their role in protecting the organization's information assets.
7. Maintain Security Controls: The CISO must ensure that the organization's security controls are up-to-date and effective.
8. Communicate with Executive Management: The CISO must regularly communicate the organization's security posture to executive management and the board of directors.

Skills Required:

1. Leadership Skills: The CISO must have strong leadership skills to effectively manage the security team and communicate with executive management.
2. Technical Skills: The CISO must have a deep understanding of information security and the technical controls used to protect information assets.
3. Risk Management Skills: The CISO must have a strong understanding of risk management principles and practices.
4. Compliance Knowledge: The CISO must have a good understanding of regulatory compliance requirements.
5. Business Acumen: The CISO must have a good understanding of the organization's business operations and goals.
6. Communication Skills: The CISO must have excellent communication skills to effectively communicate with both technical and non-technical staff.
7. Problem-Solving Skills: The CISO must be able to identify potential security risks and develop effective strategies to mitigate those risks.
8. Collaboration Skills: The CISO must be able to work effectively with other departments and stakeholders to ensure that the organization's security strategy is aligned with the organization's overall goals and objectives.