Renewable Energy Jobs tagged "Cybersecurity"

Cybersecurity Jobs in Renewable Energy

The Operational Technology Distinction

Cybersecurity in renewable energy differs fundamentally from traditional IT security. While enterprise IT protects data and networks, these roles focus on operational technology (OT) that controls physical systems: wind turbines, solar inverters, battery storage facilities, and grid connections. When someone mentions a cybersecurity breach in renewables, they're often talking about SCADA systems and industrial control systems that could cause actual power disruptions, not just data leaks.

The FBI warned in 2024 about increasing threats to renewable energy infrastructure, noting that threat actors target these systems to disrupt operations or steal intellectual property. The challenge stems from legacy industrial equipment running outdated protocols now connected to modern networks, creating what CISA describes as "brownfield deployments" where old and new technologies intersect vulnerably.

Who's Hiring and What They Need

The employer mix reveals the field's breadth. Energy retailers like OVO Energy and Scottish Power secure customer-facing systems and backend infrastructure. Equipment manufacturers like GE Vernova protect industrial control systems in turbines and generators. Project developers such as Canadian Solar and battery storage specialists like Plus Power need professionals who understand both IT and OT environments.

Successful candidates typically combine traditional Information Security knowledge with industrial systems expertise. Background in manufacturing, utilities, or critical infrastructure proves more relevant than pure software security experience. Understanding programmable logic controllers, distributed control systems, and industrial networking protocols matters more than the latest cloud security certifications.

Roles and Specializations

Job titles cluster around three areas. OT security roles (OT Security Analyst, SCADA Consultant) focus on protecting industrial control systems. Traditional cybersecurity positions (Security Engineer, Cybersecurity Specialist) handle enterprise IT and compliance. Hybrid roles (Network Administrator with SCADA responsibilities, IT & Security Directors) bridge both worlds as IT/OT convergence accelerates.

Market Direction

The field tilts toward IT/OT convergence specialists who can secure both enterprise networks and industrial control systems. Professionals combining cybersecurity credentials with industrial automation knowledge command premiums, particularly those familiar with Energy Storage and distributed energy resources where thousands of connected devices create expanded attack surfaces. As renewables replace centralized power plants with distributed systems, the demand for professionals who understand both electrical engineering fundamentals and cybersecurity frameworks continues rising.