Lead OT Security (f/m/d)

About the job

Are you ready to take responsibility for the cybersecurity of Axpo's critical operational technology and industrial control systems? Join us as a strategic leader to protect our energy infrastructure across water, nuclear, wind, solar, biomass, substation, and grid environments. Together, we will ensure resilience, security, and compliance in a rapidly evolving threat landscape.

What you will do:

Define and execute Axpo's OT security strategy and roadmap, aligned with business and cybersecurity objectives.

Build, lead, and develop a specialised OT security team.

Represent Axpo in industry forums and regulatory communities for critical infrastructure security.

Design OT security architecture standards based on IEC 62443, NIST SP 800-82, and the Purdue model.

Oversee risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and compliance with Swiss and European regulations (ISA, NIS2, nuclear power, and critical infrastructure).

Establish OT-specific incident response capabilities, conduct security exercises, and ensure disaster recovery plans are tested.

Collaborate with plant managers and engineers to integrate security across the entire OT asset lifecycle, from procurement to decommissioning.

What you bring and who you are:

Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in cybersecurity, computer science, electrical engineering, or related fields.

Experience:

8–10 years of experience in cybersecurity, with at least 5 years focused on OT/ICS security in critical infrastructure environments. Equivalent relevant professional experience is also recognised in lieu of a degree.

3+ years in a leadership role managing security teams or programmes.

Proven expertise in securing industrial control systems (SCADA, DCS, PLCs, RTUs, SIS).

Technical skills:

Deep understanding of OT/ICS protocols (e.g., Modbus, IEC 61850, OPC UA) and OT security frameworks (IEC 62443, NIST CSF, NERC CIP).

Experience with OT network architecture design (Purdue model segmentation, firewalls, secure remote access).

Familiarity with OT security tools (e.g., Claroty, Dragos, Nozomi Networks).

Certifications such as GICSP, GRID, CISSP, CISM, or IEC 62443 are advantageous but not mandatory.

Competencies:

Leadership qualities, strategic thinking, and the ability to communicate OT risks effectively to executives and engineers.

Security-oriented mindset with adaptability to legacy and modern systems.

Fluent in English and German.

About the team:

We are a diverse group of cybersecurity professionals passionate about protecting Axpo’s critical infrastructure. Collaboration and innovation drive us as we tackle challenges across engineering, IT, and operations. Join us to shape the future of energy security.

Benefits:

At our company, we strive to create a culture of continuous learning, personal growth, and international community engagement. We are passionate about equipping our employees with the tools and resources they need to succeed, and we are confident you will love being part of our team!

Working hours Enjoy flexible working hours and the possibility to work up to 50% remotely – for a perfect work-life balance.

Generous pension plan We cover 60% of your pension contributions – for a secure future.

Health comes first 100% continued salary payment in case of illness or accident and access to an exclusive mental health platform with five free sessions with a psychologist.

Parental leave policy 16 weeks maternity leave (100% continued salary) and 10 days paternity leave (100% continued salary) to spend valuable time with your family.

Support for your family Up to 20% reimbursement of childcare costs (max. CHF 4,800 per year).

Exclusive discounts Attractive discounts on fuel, insurance, and mobile services with partner companies such as Shell, Avia, Sunrise, and Swisscom.

Public transport No problem: With the SwissPass (max. CHF 190), you can get from A to B at a reasonable price.

Equal opportunities:

At the Axpo Group, we are committed to fostering a culture of non-discrimination, tolerance, and inclusion. As an equal opportunity employer, we welcome applications regardless of race and ethnic origin, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, as well as socio-economic, cultural, and religious background. We are committed to ensuring a respectful and inclusive hiring process and workplace for all.

At Axpo, all employees have the freedom to develop their personal skills and potential and to remain true to themselves. Axpo lives a culture that is free of prejudices about age, gender, origin, education, religion, disability or sexual orientation. We promote uniqueness. Because uniqueness creates diversity. And diversity promotes growth and is our driving force.

Axpo's ambition is to provide society with a sustainable future through innovative energy solutions. Axpo is the largest Swiss producer of renewable energy and an international pioneer in energy trading and the marketing of solar and wind power. More than 7,500 employees combine experience and know-how with a passion for innovation and the joint search for ever better solutions. Axpo relies on innovative technologies to meet the ever-changing needs of its customers in over 30 countries in Europe, North America and Asia.