Schalk Olivier Network Engineer | DevOps | Software Engineer

Schalk Olivier

OT Specialist: Operations Centre | Network Engineer | Programmer

I am an experienced Network Engineer and Programmer with expertise in managing and optimizing high-performance network infrastructures, automating operational processes, and driving innovation through software development. As the OT Specialist: Operations Centre at Anglo American, I lead the IM Support Centre, overseeing Service Desk operations, Monitoring, and Observability for a global enterprise. My passion lies at the intersection of network engineering, programming, and operational technology, ensuring robust, scalable, and efficient systems.

Personal Information

  • Address: Pretoria, South Africa
  • Nationality: South African
  • Driving License: Yes
  • Hobbies: Carp fishing at Rietvlei Dam, exploring new technologies, mentoring, and automation

Soft Skills

  • Leadership
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Adaptability
  • Communication
  • Collaboration
  • Problem Solving
  • Proactive Approach

Social Profiles

Languages

  • English: ★★★★★
  • Afrikaans: ★★★★★

Technical Skills

  • Network Engineering: Routing, Switching, Wireless Systems, Firewalls (Cisco ISE, DNAC, Firepower)
  • Programming: Python, JavaScript, Database Management
  • DevOps & Automation: Ansible, Terraform, CI/CD, Observability Platforms
  • Server-Side Technologies: VMware, Hyper-V, Windows Server, Linux

Work Experience

OT Specialist: Operations Centre | Anglo American (July 2024 – Present)

  • Lead the IM Support Centre, overseeing Service Desk operations, Monitoring, and Observability.
  • Optimize and integrate IT and OT monitoring systems to improve reliability and operational visibility.
  • Drive initiatives in observability to enhance proactive system insights and reduce downtime.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to maintain seamless support and system operations.

OT Specialist: Voice Data Networks | Anglo American (Jan 2023 – June 2024)

  • Designed, implemented, and maintained voice and data network systems in an operational technology environment.
  • Ensured seamless integration of voice and data communication systems for critical operations.
  • Managed and resolved complex network issues while providing L3 support to maintain optimal network performance.
  • Conducted network assessments and collaborated with teams to align solutions with operational objectives.

OT Network Engineer - Team Lead | Anglo American (Sep 2020 – Mar 2023)

  • Directed a team to manage and enhance operational technology networks.
  • Delivered advanced L3 support and aligned network operations with organizational goals.
  • Focused on developing scalable, secure network solutions across diverse sites.

Software Developer | RSAWEB (Apr 2020 – Sep 2020)

  • Integrated networking with systems using Python, Django, and various databases.
  • Designed and deployed network service integrations with customer-facing platforms.

IIT Network Administrator | Anglo American (Oct 2019 – Mar 2020)

  • Maintained and optimized industrial IT networks for reliability and security.
  • Supported critical IT systems in industrial environments.

Network Engineer | RSAWEB (Aug 2018 – Sep 2019)

  • Managed ISP-grade network infrastructure, including VoIP, AAA systems, and cloud technologies.
  • Specialized in Cisco, Mikrotik, and Extreme Networks.

Education

  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
  • Hirshmann Industrial Ethernet, Specialist Certification
  • National Senior Certificate

Courses