What is an Industrial IT Engineer?

An industrial IT engineer is a professional specialized in designing, developing, and managing computer systems used in the industrial sector. Their role is essential to automate and optimize production processes, improve efficiency, and ensure system reliability.

Why do companies need this role?

Industrial IT is at the heart of modernizing and improving production processes. Companies need industrial IT engineers to design computer systems tailored to their needs, strengthen their competitiveness, and ensure product quality.

Industrial IT Engineer responsibilities:

An industrial IT engineer's responsibilities include:

• Designing and developing control and automation systems.
• Programming supervision and data acquisition software.
• Integrating sensors, actuators, and communication systems.
• Managing the security of industrial computer systems.
• Analyzing customer needs and developing custom solutions.
• Maintaining and troubleshooting industrial computer systems.
• Setting up monitoring and tracking of systems.
• Training staff on the use of computer systems.

Who does the Industrial IT Engineer work with?

An industrial IT engineer collaborates with a range of stakeholders, including:

• Production teams to understand processes and specific needs.
• Electrical and electronics engineers to integrate hardware components.
• Maintenance managers to keep systems running properly.
• Customers to gather requirements and feedback.
• IT security experts to protect systems against cyberthreats.

Required skills:

The essential skills for an industrial IT engineer include:

• Mastery of programming and automation.
• Knowledge of industrial operating systems.
• Industrial database design skills.
• Industrial IT security skills.
• Ability to work in a team and communicate effectively.

Technologies and tools used:

Industrial IT engineers use a variety of software and programming languages, such as SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) systems, PLC (Programmable Logic Controller) programming languages, and simulation tools.

Training to become an industrial IT engineer:

To become an industrial IT engineer, it is common to study electrical engineering, computer engineering, automation, or a related discipline. Industrial certifications in PLC programming and IT security can also be an asset.

Industrial IT Engineer salary:

Salaries vary depending on experience, location, and sector, but here is a general range:

• Junior Industrial IT Engineer: €40,000 to €60,000 gross annual.
• Mid-level Industrial IT Engineer: €55,000 to €80,000 gross annual.
• Senior Industrial IT Engineer: €75,000 to over €100,000 gross annual.

Career progression:

Industrial IT engineers can progress to roles such as project manager, director of industrial automation, industrial IT consultant, or industrial IT security manager depending on their skills and experience.