We are constantly exploring. And have been since 1952. Driven by our passion for nuclear technology and empowered by our unique infrastructure. SCK CEN explores the limits of the possible. In this way, we continuously expand our knowledge in various nuclear fields. But no matter how many directions we explore, we always have the same goal in mind: developing innovative nuclear applications for a better world. Why? Because we are convinced that we can make a gigantic difference with one of the smallest elements on Earth – the atom. Both now and in the future. For people and nature. Read on and you will discover exactly how we do it.

Within the new Nuclear Medical Applications (NMA) institute, SCK CEN is significantly enhancing its efforts in the fight against cancer.
NMA plays a vital role in the development and production of next-generation radiopharmaceuticals.
A state-of-the-art facility for the GMP-compliant production of Lu-177 and other isotopes is currently under development.
To support both the development and operational phases of this facility, we are seeking an experienced and motivated Operational Technology (OT) Engineer.

As an Operational Technology (OT) Engineer, you will be responsible for setting up and managing the hardware, virtual environment, and applications that control all operational processes within the new radiopharmaceutical manufacturing facility at SCK CEN.
Your role includes the technical management, maintenance, and ensuring the validated status of this infrastructure in compliance with cGMP regulations and GAMP5 guidelines.
Your primary objective is to ensure uninterrupted manufacturing operations by proactively installing, configuring and monitoring the OT environment.

Your responsibilities during the project phase will include:

• Design, procure, install and configure, the entire OT infrastructure and application environment. The environment consists out of virtualization systems, active directory, storage system, firewall, backup tool, server management, network monitoring tool and antivirus solutions.
• Design, implement, and maintain interface services to seamlessly connect IT and OT systems.
• Ensure the OT network is secure and aligned with cybersecurity best practices.
• Participate in OT system validation including testing and documentation.
• Create SOPs and train stakeholders for OT system use and maintenance.
• Manage budget and timelines to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery.

During the operational phase:

• Monitor the network health and performance.
• Handle incidents, troubleshoot issues, perform replacements, and manage spare parts inventory.
• Prioritize new requirements, install updates and patches.
• Be the technical owner of all components within the OT network.
• Support GMP-compliant audits.
• Execute all-round support on site or via remote support.
• Facilitate the establishment of an OT maintenance team with on-call duty rotation as needed and promote opportunities for its growth and development.
• Foster opportunities to share best practices and provide guidance for optimizing OT networks across SCK CEN.

• A master’s degree in a relevant technical field such as Engineering, Computer Science or Automation.
• Preferably 5 years of experience in an OT role.
• Strong technical expertise in OT systems, including network management, automation, and control systems.
• Skilled in integrating and securing data flows, managing batch processes, and ensuring accurate production data logging for compliance.
• Problem solving ability to quickly diagnose and fix issues with production systems.
• Knowledge of regulations and guidelines on network- and information systems (NIS2) and their validation in pharmaceutical production according to European and American regulations and guidelines (GMP Annex 11, 21 CFR part 11 and GAMP5) are a plus.
• The communication skills to bring projects to a successful conclusion.
• Strong reporting skills, both written and verbal.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Interest in nuclear technology and willingness to carry out work in and around hot cells and clean rooms.