Automation Systems Engineer OT, NA

Vantage Data Centers powers, cools, protects and connects the technology of the world’s well-known hyperscalers, cloud providers and large enterprises. Developing and operating across North America, EMEA and Asia Pacific, Vantage has evolved data center design in innovative ways to deliver dramatic gains in reliability, efficiency and sustainability in flexible environments that can scale as quickly as the market demands.

Automation Systems Group

The Automation Systems Group is responsible for the design, construction and support of cutting-edge data center automation and control infrastructure. The department collaborates with Operations, Sales, Engineering, Information Technology and Management to ensure the system continues to fulfill Vantage customer requirements. Automation Systems works closely with partner contractors to come up with the best design and helps manage these partners to success by providing accurate requirements, goals, and timelines. In addition to design and construction, we are also responsible for the technical requirements of the Operations department involving troubleshooting, calibrating, and repairing mission critical control systems throughout all Vantage locations

Position Overview

This role is onsite in San Antonio, TX.

Vantage is seeking a motivated and detail‑oriented Automation Engineer – OT (Entry Level) to join our Operational Technology (OT) team. In this role, you will support the development, maintenance, and daily operation of OT networks, automation systems, and infrastructure across mission‑critical data center environments. You will work closely with senior and lead engineers to learn OT best practices, assist with project execution, and help ensure secure, reliable, and compliant OT systems. This role provides hands‑on exposure to industrial automation, ICS/SCADA technologies, and cybersecurity principles within high‑availability environments. You will participate in troubleshooting, system testing, commissioning activities, and contribute to documentation and continuous improvement efforts. This position is an excellent opportunity for an early‑career engineer looking to build strong foundational experience and grow into advanced OT engineering roles.

Essential Job Functions

• Assist with configuration, routine maintenance, and basic troubleshooting of OT network devices— including Cisco Stratix switches, industrial firewalls, and redundancy topologies (DLR/REP)—under guidance from lead and senior engineers.

• Perform entry‑level diagnostics, device checks, and software/firmware updates for OT network and security equipment, escalating unusual findings or issues to higher‑level engineering staff.

• Help monitor OT security technologies such as firewalls, IDS, and network‑monitoring tools; follow established cybersecurity procedures and support foundational compliance tasks related to OT security.

• Apply introductory knowledge of industrial cybersecurity standards (IEC‑62443, NIST 800‑82) when completing daily tasks, with mentoring and oversight from lead and senior engineers.

• Assist in developing, testing, and troubleshooting automation solutions using Rockwell Automation PLCs (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, etc.), including support during commissioning, system startup, and OT‑network‑related validation.

• Maintain and organize documentation for PLC programs, SCADA configurations, OT network diagrams, and device inventories to support accurate system records.

• Support engineering and construction teams by completing assigned project tasks, reviewing OT requirements, and ensuring proper integration of networked automation systems.

• Assist field teams and technicians with resolving basic connectivity issues, device faults, and general OT system support needs across plant‑floor equipment.

• Additional duties as assigned by Management

Job Requirements

• Degree in Industrial Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Industrial Automation, or a related technical field; equivalent relevant experience is accepted.

• 0–2 years of experience in automation, controls, industrial networking, or related engineering disciplines; internships, co‑ops, and academic projects are acceptable.

• Foundational understanding of OT/ICS environments, industrial controls, and basic networking concepts such as Ethernet/IP, switches, VLANs, and common industrial protocols (DLR, REP, CIP).

• Introductory exposure to Rockwell Automation platforms (ControlLogix, CompactLogix, Studio 5000) through coursework, labs, or hands‑on training.

• Basic familiarity with SCADA/HMI systems—preferably Inductive Automation Ignition—or similar visualization tools gained through academic or internship experience.

• Awareness of cybersecurity fundamentals with interest in developing skills related to OT cybersecurity standards and frameworks (e.g., IEC‑62443).

• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities, with a willingness to learn troubleshooting methods for automation and OT systems.

• Effective communication skills and the ability to collaborate with engineering, operations, and cross‑functional project teams.

• General exposure to IT concepts such as virtualization, Windows/Linux environments, or directory services is beneficial but not required.

• Willingness to travel up to 25% depending on project needs and business requirements.

Preferred Skills

• Coursework, labs, or certifications related to Rockwell Automation, industrial networking, or Ignition SCADA.

• Exposure to virtualization platforms, edge computing, or IIoT technologies through academic or internship experience.

• Introductory scripting experience (Python, JavaScript, or similar) for automation or SCADA‑related tasks.

• Experience or exposure to one or more of the following (academic and internship experience acceptable):

• Building Management Systems (BMS)

• Mobile HMIs or remote‑access tools

• Windows or Linux server environments

• Basic redundancy or high‑availability configurations

• Cloud or virtualization platforms (Hyper‑V, VMware, Azure, AWS)

• Distributed automation or OT system architectures

• General foundational knowledge of industrial control systems (PLCs, DCS, SCADA, field I/O, instrumentation).

Physical Demands and Special Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; sit; use hands to handle, or feel objects; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; balance; stoop or kneel; talk and hear. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.

Additional Details 

• This position is eligible for company benefits including but not limited to medical, dental, and vision coverage, life and AD&D, short and long-term disability coverage, paid time off, employee assistance, participation in a 401k program that includes company match, and many other additional voluntary benefits. 

• Compensation for the role will depend on a number of factors, including your qualifications, skills, competencies, and experience and may fall outside of the range shown. 

#LI-Onsite

#LI-PV1

We operate with No Ego and No Arrogance. We work to build each other up and support one another, appreciating each other’s strengths and respecting each other’s weaknesses. We find joy in our work and each other, actively seeking opportunities to inject fun into what we do. Our hard and efficient work is rewarded with an above market total compensation package. We offer a comprehensive suite of health and welfare, retirement, and paid leave benefits exceeding local expectations.

Throughout the year, the advantage of being part of the Vantage team is evident with an array of benefits, recognition, training and development, and the knowledge that your contribution adds value to the company and our community.

Don't meet all the requirements? Please still apply if you think you are the right person for the position. We are always keen to speak to people who connect with our mission and values.

Vantage Data Centers is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Vantage Data Centers does not accept unsolicited resumes from search firm agencies. Fees will not be paid in the event a candidate submitted by a recruiter without an agreement in place is hired; such resumes will be deemed the sole property of Vantage Data Centers.

We’ll be accepting applications for at least one week from the date this role is posted. If you're interested, we encourage you to apply soon—we’re excited to find the right person and will keep the role open until we do!