Remote Nerc System Operator Jobs in Washington, DC

About the Role: 

The Junior OT/ICS Lab Engineer is a hands-on technical role supporting the design, build, testing, and validation of operational technology environments. You will work alongside senior engineers to create realistic OT lab systems, test Dragos detection and response capabilities, validate platform performance, and support threat research activities. This role combines hands-on engineering work with exposure to real-world OT protocols, devices, and operational scenarios. 

What We're Looking for:

You will need to be curious and hands-on. You understand networking fundamentals and are comfortable learning OT-specific concepts on the job. You're detail-oriented, methodical when troubleshooting, and not afraid to dig into technical documentation or ask for help when stuck. You work well in a collaborative environment, support other teams, and take ownership of lab infrastructure reliability. You're motivated by the mission-protecting critical infrastructure that civilization depends on-and you see this role as a springboard to deeper OT security expertise. 

Responsibilities: 

•  Lab Infrastructure & Operations 
  • Build, configure, and maintain lab environments that simulate real OT operational scenarios 
  • Set up and manage industrial control systems (PLCs, RTUs, HMIs) and networked industrial devices 
  • Deploy sensors, data collection tools, and monitoring infrastructure to capture OT network traffic and telemetry 
  • Document lab configurations, system topologies, and operational procedures for team reference 
• Testing & Validation 
  • Execute test plans to validate Dragos platform capabilities against simulated OT threats and normal operational activity 
  • Collect network traffic, device behavior, and telemetry data from lab systems to support research and product development 
  • Assist in reproducing reported issues or edge cases in a controlled lab environment 
  • Participate in threat scenario development and validation exercises 
• Support & Troubleshooting 
  • Troubleshoot lab infrastructure issues, network connectivity problems, and device configuration challenges 
  • Support internal and external teams requiring access to OT lab resources for research, testing, or validation 
  • Contribute to lab documentation, runbooks, and training materials for team onboarding 

Qualifications: 

•  Required:
  • Strong foundation in networking: OSI model, TCP/IP, subnetting, routing, firewalls, and network protocols 
  • Hands-on experience building or working with lab/test environments; familiarity with virtualization platforms (VMware, Hyper-V, KVM) or containerization
  • Basic understanding of IT infrastructure and security concepts 
  • Comfortability working at the command line (Linux/Windows); scripting skills (Python, Bash, PowerShell) a plus 
  • Ability to follow technical documentation, troubleshoot systematically, and ask clarifying questions 
  • Willingness to learn OT-specific protocols and operational technology fundamentals 
  • Ability to perform basic fabrication and panel building, including mounting/installing panels to engineering drawings and wiring devices and components. Welding, instrument fitting, and conduit work are not required for this role 
• Preferred: 
  • Familiarity with industrial protocols (Modbus, Ethernet/IP, Profibus, DNP3) or SCADA/HMI systems 
  • Experience with network packet analysis tools (Wireshark, tcpdump) or protocol decoding 
  • Practical experience with PLCs, industrial IoT devices, or control system engineering 
  • Experience with electrical troubleshooting (e.g., diagnosing circuits, relays, control wiring) is a plus 
  • Security certifications (Security+, CEH, GCIA) or cybersecurity coursework 
  • Experience in critical infrastructure or manufacturing environments 
  • Familiarity with ICS security frameworks (NIST, NERC CIP, IEC 62443) 
  • Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related technical Engineering field (or equivalent practical experience) 

Compensation: 

• Salary:  $105,000

• Competitive Equity Package  

• Comprehensive Benefits Plan 

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