As industries such as life sciences, manufacturing, energy, and critical infrastructure continue embracing digital transformation the demand for Operational Technology (OT) professionals has grown significantly. Navigating the intersection of IT and OT requires a unique set of traits, making the transition into these roles both challenging and rewarding. Understanding these traits is essential to success for hiring managers seeking the right candidates or professionals looking to pivot into OT.
What Defines OT Roles?
Operational Technology refers to the hardware and software systems used to monitor and control industrial processes. Unlike IT, which focuses on data and information, OT is concerned with the physical operation of machinery and equipment. It underpins critical industries such as energy production, logistics, and manufacturing.
In recent years, the integration of IT systems with OT environments has gained momentum, introducing both opportunities and challenges. Cybersecurity risks, proprietary systems, and the complexity of automation require a distinct skill set to bridge these spaces effectively.
In the life sciences industry, OT plays a critical role in ensuring precision and compliance during production processes, such as in pharmaceutical manufacturing and biotechnology research facilities.
The 7 Key Traits for OT Professionals
1. Attention to Detail
In OT environments, even minor oversights can have significant repercussions. Misconfigured systems, overlooked maintenance routines, or errors in programming can lead to costly downtime or safety hazards. OT professionals must demonstrate precision in their work, ensuring that systems are configured, monitored, and maintained with accuracy.
For example, in pharmaceutical production, even small deviations in OT-controlled environments can lead to compliance issues or compromised product quality, underscoring the importance of precision.
2. Adaptability
Industries relying on OT are constantly shaped by technological developments and operational demands. Professionals must navigate evolving standards, unexpected equipment failures, and the adoption of new tools. For example, integrating legacy systems with modern automation requires the ability to adapt both technically and strategically.
3. Problem-Solving Mindset
OT systems often operate under constraints that require creative solutions. Proprietary equipment, limited downtime for maintenance, and stringent safety standards mean professionals must think critically and quickly. For instance, addressing a malfunction in an automated production line might involve both diagnosing the issue and implementing an immediate workaround to minimise disruptions.
Professionals in life sciences may face challenges such as troubleshooting automated equipment in sterile environments or ensuring batch consistency during production runs.
4. Strong Communication Skills
Collaboration is at the heart of OT roles. Professionals frequently interact with cross-functional teams, including IT, production, and maintenance personnel. Clear communication ensures that technical information is conveyed effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders. For instance, explaining a system upgrade’s implications to a management team requires translating technical jargon into actionable insights.
5. Curiosity
The OT space is marked by continuous learning. Professionals must proactively deepen their understanding of specialised systems, industry protocols, and emerging trends. Those with a natural curiosity for learning can stay ahead by exploring standards like ISA/IEC 62443 or investigating how specific automation tools enhance operational efficiency.
6. Risk Awareness and Management
OT environments are high-stakes by nature. From ensuring worker safety to protecting sensitive infrastructure from cyber threats, professionals must balance operational goals with risk management. Awareness of potential vulnerabilities and a proactive approach to mitigating risks are indispensable traits for success.
7. Resilience in High-Pressure Environments
OT roles often involve managing critical incidents under tight time constraints. Whether addressing system outages or troubleshooting equipment failures, professionals must remain composed and effective during high-pressure situations. Resilience is key to maintaining operational stability and minimising the impact of unexpected challenges.
Practical Advice for Hiring Managers
For hiring managers, evaluating these traits during the recruitment process can be instrumental in identifying candidates who are well-suited for OT roles. Structured interviews, scenario-based assessments, and behavioural questions can help uncover the required attributes.
For instance, the scenario-based question, “Imagine a critical system failure occurs during peak operational hours. How would you approach diagnosing and resolving the issue while minimising disruption?” evaluates a candidate's problem-solving mindset, resilience under pressure, and risk management skills. It reflects the reality of OT environments where quick thinking and a structured approach to troubleshooting are essential to maintain operational stability.
The skill-focused question, “Can you share an example where you successfully communicated a complex technical concept to a non-technical audience? How did you ensure they fully understood its implications?” assesses a candidate’s communication abilities. Clear and effective communication is critical in OT roles, where professionals must often act as a bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders. This question also offers insights into the candidate’s ability to adapt their messaging and collaborate across diverse teams.
Additionally, practical assessments simulating real-world challenges can offer valuable insights into a candidate’s problem-solving abilities and resilience.
Tips for Professionals Transitioning into OT
For professionals considering a transition into OT, focusing on building and demonstrating these traits can increase their chances of success. Practical steps include:
Pursuing recognised certifications is an excellent way to build credibility and enhance technical expertise for those transitioning into OT roles. Certifications like ISA/IEC 62443, which centres on OT cybersecurity, or vendor-specific training programmes, can provide specialised knowledge that is directly applicable to the field.
Building a professional network is equally important. Engaging with experienced OT professionals at industry events or through online platforms offers invaluable insights into best practices and career progression. Mentorship opportunities can also provide guidance on navigating the unique challenges of the OT space.
When preparing CVs and for interviews, it’s essential to emphasise transferable skills such as adaptability, problem-solving, and risk management. Highlighting past experiences that demonstrate these traits, particularly in contexts that mirror the demands of OT roles, will strengthen applications and showcase readiness for the transition.
How nufuture Can Help
Whether you are a hiring manager seeking top-tier OT talent for the life sciences sector or a professional aiming to make the transition, nufuture offers the resources and expertise to support your journey. Connect with nufuture to explore how your organisation can bridge the gap between IT and OT seamlessly.
With our expertise in recruiting for life sciences and other critical industries, we can help your organisation stay ahead by connecting you with professionals who understand the complexities of OT in regulated environments.