JOB DESCRIPTION

Job Title: OT Engineer – Pharmaceuticals

Company: Inova (www.inova-sa.ch)

Location: French-speaking Switzerland

Contract Type: Full-time – On-site

About Inova

Inova is a Swiss consulting and engineering firm specializing in supporting life sciences industries through high-value expertise in quality, compliance, automation, and digital transformation. We partner with our clients to design, implement, and maintain robust, future-ready systems across manufacturing and IT/OT environments.

Position Overview

We are looking for an OT Engineer to support a pharmaceutical client in managing and evolving their operational technology (OT) landscape.

This role sits at the crossroads of automation, IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity , with a strong focus on maintaining and improving PCS-related systems. You will contribute both to ongoing operational support and strategic projects , including system lifecycle management, upgrades, and data architecture definition for new equipment.

You will work in a highly regulated GMP environment, collaborating with cross-functional stakeholders to ensure compliant, secure, and efficient OT systems.

Key Responsibilities

Project Management

• Lead and support OT-related projects (system upgrades, infrastructure improvements, new equipment integration)
• Define user requirements and translate them into technical solutions
• Contribute to cost estimation, planning, and execution of technical changes
• Prepare and review technical documentation (design specs, functional specs, etc.)

IT/OT Operations & Engineering

• Provide technical support for OT infrastructure (servers, networks, virtualization)
• Manage lifecycle activities (patching, upgrades, obsolescence management) for Windows/Linux systems
• Administer virtualization environments (VMware vSphere/ESXi)
• Ensure robust OT/IT architecture (networking, VLANs, routing, firewalls)
• Support cybersecurity practices and ensure system compliance
• Manage databases (Oracle, MS SQL) and data flows across system layers
• Support and maintain automation systems (SCADA, HMI, industrial protocols)

Compliance & Collaboration

• Support Change Control processes in a GMP environment
• Collaborate with QA, Validation, Engineering, Manufacturing, and IT teams
• Contribute to audit readiness and provide support during inspections
• Ensure alignment with GAMP and data integrity expectations

Training & Continuous Improvement

• Provide technical guidance and training to users and stakeholders
• Stay up to date with emerging technologies and regulatory expectations
• Promote best practices in OT, cybersecurity, and system lifecycle management

Profile Requirements

• Degree in Automation, Industrial IT, or a related engineering field
• ~5 years of experience in OT/automation within pharmaceutical, chemical, or food industries
• Strong knowledge of GMP environments, validation, and change control processes
• Proven experience in managing OT/automation projects

Technical Expertise:

• OT system lifecycle management (Windows, Linux)
• Virtualization (VMware vSphere/ESXi)
• Industrial networks and IT/OT architecture (Ethernet/IP, VLANs, firewalls, routing)
• Database management (Oracle, MS SQL)
• Cybersecurity principles in OT environments
• Patching and update management processes
• Automation systems (SCADA, HMI, communication protocols)
• Data management and system integration layers

Soft Skills:

• Strong analytical and problem-solving mindset
• Structured, rigorous, and autonomous working style
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
• Curious, proactive, and team-oriented

Languages:

• Fluent French
• Good technical English

Why Join Inova?

• Work on cutting-edge OT and automation topics in the pharmaceutical industry
• Play a key role at the interface of IT, OT, and GMP compliance
• Contribute to impactful system improvements and digital transformation initiatives
• Join a dynamic and expert-driven consulting environment
• Be part of a company that values technical excellence, ownership, and collaboration

How to Apply:

Send your application to careers@inova-sa.ch

Subject line: OT Engineer – Pharmaceuticals

Inova is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome diverse perspectives and are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace.