We are looking for an experienced OT Active Directory Specialist to support Active Directory-related activities within Operational Technology (OT) / manufacturing environments from an advisory and oversight perspective. This role is intended for a senior professional who can provide subject matter expertise, technical review, guidance, and coordination on OT Active Directory topics, while the dayto-day operational execution remains with the designated infrastructure or operations teams. The position will typically operate with read-only access and will focus on assessing, advising, and supporting improvements related to OT domains, domain controllers, Group Policies, DNS, authentication, and access management in line with security, infrastructure, and site operational requirements. The successful candidate will work closely with OT, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and site stakeholders to help ensure that Active Directory services in OT environments are secure, compliant, fit for purpose, and aligned with manufacturing operational needs.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide technical advisory support for Active Directory services in OT / manufacturing environments
- Review the health, configuration, and structure of OT domains, domain controllers, Group Policies, DNS, OU structures, and access models
- Assess and advise on authentication, domain join, and access-related topics for OT servers, systems, and platforms
- Support troubleshooting activities by helping analyse issues related to AD, DNS, GPOs, replication, authentication, and user or system access
- Review existing Active Directory configurations and provide recommendations for stability, security, and operational improvement
- Advise the operational teams on AD hardening measures, remediation actions, and closure of security findings
- Support the review of privileged access models, account management approaches, and Group Policy design in OT environments
- Work with OT, infrastructure, cybersecurity, and site teams to assess the impact of proposed AD-related changes and improvement initiatives
- Support risk identification and provide recommendations that balance cybersecurity requirements with manufacturing continuity
- Review technical documentation, standards, and configurations to ensure alignment with OT and compliance requirements
- Contribute to design discussions, architecture reviews, and technical decisionmaking related to OT Active Directory services
- Support audit, compliance, and assessment activities by providing SME input and reviewing evidence or technical controls
- Participate in stakeholder discussions and provide structured guidance to operational teams responsible for implementation
- Help drive standardization and continuous improvement of OT Active Directory practices across sites or programmes
Nature of the Role
This is primarily an advisory, review, and coordination role, rather than a hands-on operational administration role. The OT Active Directory Specialist will:
- typically operate with read-only access
- review and assess configurations, issues, and proposed changes
- provide recommendations and technical guidance
- support decision-making and remediation planning
- coordinate with teams responsible for implementation and operational support
The role is therefore well suited to a professional who combines strong technical knowledge with stakeholder management, structured analysis, and advisory capability.
Required Experience
- Strong experience with Microsoft Active Directory, including sound understanding of: o domain controllers o Group Policy Objects o DNS o Organizational Unit structures o authentication and access management o Windows Server environments
- Experience working in OT, industrial, or manufacturing environments
- Good understanding of how Active Directory is applied within production and operational environments
- Experience reviewing and advising on AD-related incidents, improvements, and remediation activities
- Understanding of OT cybersecurity principles and secure Active Directory operations in industrial settings
- Ability to analyse technical issues and provide practical, risk-based recommendations
- Strong communication and stakeholder coordination skills
- Ability to work effectively with operational teams without direct administrative ownership
Preferred Experience
- Experience in pharmaceutical, life sciences, or other regulated manufacturing environments
- Familiarity with IEC 62443, NIST, or similar OT cybersecurity standards
- Experience supporting environments with strong compliance, validation, or audit requirements
- Exposure to segmented OT networks and industrial infrastructure governance
- Experience in technical advisory, review, or SME support roles within infrastructure or cybersecurity programmes
What we offer:
- Contract
- Open-minded and multinational environment,
- Opportunity to be part of a global organization focused on development,
- Professional development and clear career path,
- Training & development opportunities including language courses.
- For more information about us, visit Cognizant Poland.
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We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
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About us
Cognizant (Nasdaq: CTSH) is an AI Builder and technology services provider, building the bridge between AI investment and enterprise value by building full-stack AI solutions for our clients. Our deep industry, process and engineering expertise enables us to build an organization’s unique context into technology systems that amplify human potential, realize tangible returns and keep global enterprises ahead in a fast-changing world. See how at www.cognizant.com or @cognizant.
Additional employment information
Compensation information is accurate as of the date of this posting. Cognizant reserves the right to modify this information at any time, subject to applicable law.
Applicants may be required to attend interviews in person or by video conference. In addition, candidates may be required to present their current state or government issued ID during each interview.
Cognizant is an equal opportunity employer. Your application and candidacy will not be considered based on race, color, sex, religion, creed, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
