Manager, Operational Technology and NERC Compliance

The Manager, Operational Technology (OT) and Digital/AI Enablement provides technical and strategic expertise to ScottMadden clients and internal teams, supporting the modernization of utility operations across generation, transmission, and distribution environments.

This role extends beyond traditional NERC compliance to focus on enabling clients across:

• Cybersecurity & Compliance (NERC/CIP and beyond)
• Data & Architecture (OT/IT convergence, data governance, integration)
• AI & Advanced Analytics (use case development, pilots, scaling)
• Operational Systems & Digital Modernization (EMS/SCADA, EAM, DERMS, etc.)
• Workforce Enablement & Change Management (future of work, training, adoption)
• Integrated Operations & Performance Optimization (cross-functional decision support, outage optimization, fleet-level insights)

The Manager helps clients move from compliance-driven programs to digitally enabled, AI-supported operations that improve reliability, safety, and cost performance.

Travel, at the discretion of the client, may be necessary.

Essential Functions

Client Delivery & Advisory

• Provide subject matter expertise across OT, cybersecurity, and digital transformation domains
• Lead and support client engagements spanning NERC compliance, OT modernization, and AI-enabled operations
• Translate operational challenges into scalable digital and AI-enabled solutions (e.g., outage optimization, predictive maintenance, control room decision support)

OT/AI Strategy & Enablement

• Help clients define and implement roadmaps across the six OT/AI pillars
• Identify and prioritize high-value use cases for AI and advanced analytics within OT environments
• Support integration of OT systems with enterprise data platforms and cloud environments where appropriate

Compliance & Risk Management

• Maintain deep expertise in NERC - CIP / O&P and related regulatory frameworks while helping clients modernize compliance programs
• Advise on risk-based approaches that integrate cybersecurity, reliability, and operational performance

Business Development

• Support new opportunities across OT, digital, and AI domains
• Develop proposals and thought leadership aligned to client needs and market trends
• Support client relationship development and account growth

Internal Capability Development

• Contribute to development of methodologies, tools, and accelerators (e.g., compliance automation tools, OT maturity models, AI prototypes)
• Support development of reusable assets aligned to OT/AI enablement COE
• Mentor junior staff and contribute to knowledge sharing across the firm

The Project Team

You will work on small project teams to identify, and often implement, solutions to client problems and challenges. Project teams are typically composed of three or four consultants and a partner. Working closely with experienced ScottMadden consultants and partners will maximize your learning and enable meaningful project contributions from your very first assignment.

The Qualifications

Our ideal candidate is well rounded and possesses the following:

• Strong industry knowledge across OT environments, utility operations, and digital transformation
• Experience in one or more of the following areas:
  • NERC/CIP compliance and regulatory programs
  • OT cybersecurity and risk management
  • Utility operational systems (e.g., SCADA, EMS, DMS, EAM)
  • Data architecture, integration, or analytics in OT environments
  • AI/advanced analytics use cases in industrial or utility settings
• Ability to connect technical solutions to business value and operational outcomes
• Strong consulting mindset: structured problem solving, client management, and executive communication
• Proven ability to manage complex projects and multiple workstreams
• Excellent leadership, collaboration, and interpersonal skills

The Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in engineering, computer science, information systems, or a related field (advanced degree a plus)
• 10+ years of experience in energy or critical infrastructure, with exposure to OT environments
• 2+ years of consulting experience strongly preferred
• Demonstrated experience working at the intersection of operations, technology, and business strategy

Work Authorization Requirement

Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States without the need for sponsorship now or in the future, as ScottMadden does not provide visa sponsorship.