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Harikrishnan Muraleedharan Nair
Verified Expert in Engineering
IoT Developer
Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Toptal member since February 12, 2025
Bio
Harikrishnan is an IT/OT consultant with over 20 years of experience in IoT, IIoT, and Industry 4.0. He specializes in integrating IT/OT systems, industrial protocols, and IBM Maximo implementations across various industries. His expertise spans digital transformation, predictive maintenance, and IIoT solutions, establishing him as a trusted leader in operational technology innovation.
Portfolio
Blackrook
Python 3, IBM Maximo, OPC UA, Modbus Protocol, MQTT, REST, Node-RED, Ollama...
Royal Council Of Saudi Arabia
IBM Maximo, Embedded Systems, Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA)...
National Grid, Saudi Arabia
IBM Maximo, OPC UA, SCADA, C++, C, Python, SQL, Embedded Systems...
Experience
- IBM Maximo - 14 years
- Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) - 6 years
- Raspberry Pi - 6 years
- Arduino - 6 years
- Python - 6 years
- C - 5 years
- AWS IoT - 4 years
- ESP32 - 4 years
Preferred Environment
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), AWS IoT, IBM Maximo, Python, Raspberry Pi, Arduino, ESP32, C, CODESYS, PLC, Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)
The most amazing...
...achievement was developing an IoT-enabled solution that integrated sensors with IBM Maximo, enabling predictive maintenance and significantly reducing downtime.
Work Experience
Senior IIoT & Maximo Consultant
2024 - PRESENT
Blackrook
- Built an end-to-end industrial IoT pipeline, processing 1000+ sensor readings per second for real-time data ingestion, processing, visualization, and anomaly detection.
- Leveraged Kepware KEPServerEX to bridge MQTT-based field data into Apache Kafka, forming a scalable event streaming backbone with 99.9% uptime.
- Developed Kafka Streams application in Java for real-time data transformation and aggregation, reducing processing latency by 85%.
- Deployed Telegraf on Raspberry Pi as a Kafka consumer to route time-series data into InfluxDB for storage and analysis.
- Enabled live operational visibility using Grafana dashboards for real-time monitoring of industrial assets.
- Engineered and deployed a PyTorch-based anomaly detection model with 95% accuracy, consuming Kafka streams to identify abnormal sensor behavior in real time.
- Orchestrated edge and cloud components across Linux environments, automating service deployment with shell scripts.
- Developed a comprehensive RAG system, increasing field technician productivity by 25% for processing and querying industrial documents (PDFs, CSVs, DOCX).
- Contributed to the back end: Python with Streamlit for the web interface and LangChain for document processing and retrieval.
- Built advanced features: hybrid search combining vector similarity and structured data retrieval, table extraction, and normalization from PDFs and spreadsheets.
Technologies: Python 3, IBM Maximo, OPC UA, Modbus Protocol, MQTT, REST, Node-RED, Ollama, Llama 3, Architectural Engineering, Embedded C, Cloud Architecture
Maximo Functional Consultant
2023 - 2024
Royal Council Of Saudi Arabia
- Spearheaded end-to-end IBM Maximo asset management implementations, collaborating with stakeholders to define requirements and meet business objectives, resulting in successful enterprise-wide deployments.
- Enhanced business processes by developing custom software solutions, optimizing workflows, and implementing innovative applications tailored to client needs.
- Served as the key liaison between technical and business teams, translating complex concepts into clear communication and ensuring alignment throughout project lifecycles.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, Embedded Systems, Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA), Architectural Engineering, Embedded C, Cloud Architecture
IBM Maximo Techno-functional Consultant
2022 - 2023
National Grid, Saudi Arabia
- Developed and implemented IBM Maximo IIoT application stack, integrating OPC brokers and reading PLC tags to enhance asset performance monitoring.
- Configured and tested industrial communication protocols, including MQTT, OPC UA, Modbus, and Ethernet, ensuring seamless data exchange between SCADA systems.
- Designed and deployed new Maximo screens using Application Designer, integrating SQL Server for data management and optimizing system workflows.
- Automated repetitive processes in Maximo using robotic process automation (RPA), reducing manual effort and improving operational efficiency.
- Integrated real-time sensor data with IBM Maximo using MQTT and OPC UA, enabling predictive maintenance and reducing equipment downtime.
- Implemented custom scripts in Python and C++ to optimize Maximo workflows, enhancing system automation and data processing.
- Configured Maximo Asset Management modules, including preventive maintenance, work orders, and inventory, to align with business needs.
- Developed SQL queries and reports for Maximo, extracting actionable insights and improving decision-making for asset management teams.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, OPC UA, SCADA, C++, C, Python, SQL, Embedded Systems, Human-machine Interface (HMI), Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA), Architectural Engineering, Cloud Architecture
Product Architect
2021 - 2022
Vodafone UK
- Engineered an IoT-enabled private network solution, integrating industrial protocols like OPC UA and MQTT to enhance secure communication in smart manufacturing environments.
- Developed technical designs aligning MPN solutions with IoT-driven predictive maintenance, reducing industrial downtime through real-time data insights.
- Optimized cross-functional collaboration to deploy private 5G networks for IoT applications, improving data security and operational efficiency in industrial settings.
Technologies: 5G, Internet of Things (IoT), Embedded Systems, Architectural Engineering, Embedded C, Cloud Architecture, Qt
Industry 4.0/Digital Transformation Consultant
2020 - 2021
Blackrook Corporation, Barrington, IL
- Developed an IoT-enabled asset monitoring solution by integrating voltage, current, and vibration sensors with Raspberry Pi, using OPC UA and MQTT for real-time data transmission to IBM Maximo.
- Configured IBM Maximo to automate predictive maintenance workflows by setting up alerts based on sensor data, reducing downtime and optimizing asset performance.
- Designed and implemented industrial sensor networks using OPC UA, Modbus, and BLE for real-time data acquisition, improving operational efficiency.
- Engineered SQL-based data pipelines to integrate IIoT sensor readings into IBM Maximo, enabling predictive analytics and asset tracking.
- Developed custom scripts in Python and C++ for data processing, enhancing the efficiency of IBM Maximo asset management integrations.
- Programmed edge computing solutions on ESP32 and ARM platforms, processing industrial sensor data before forwarding it to IBM Maximo via MQTT.
- Optimized IBM Maximo workflows and escalations, enhancing asset lifecycle management and preventive maintenance scheduling.
- Designed and deployed an OPC UA-based communication framework to facilitate secure and scalable industrial data exchange with IBM Maximo.
- Implemented real-time monitoring dashboards in IBM Maximo by integrating SQL queries with IIoT sensor data for enhanced decision-making.
- Executed MQTT-based data ingestion frameworks, reducing latency in transmitting real-time industrial sensor data to IBM Maximo.
Technologies: AWS IoT, OPC UA, Modbus Protocol, Node-RED, C, C++, Python, Embedded Systems, Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA), Architectural Engineering, Embedded C, Cloud Architecture, Qt
BLE Sensor Developer
2019 - 2019
Lego Asset Management Solutions
- Developed custom BLE sensors using Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and ESP32, optimizing wireless communication protocols to enhance connectivity and reduce data transmission latency by 30%.
- Engineered an IoT-enabled asset monitoring system integrating BLE sensors, achieving real-time tracking with a 20% improvement in signal stability over previous implementations.
- Optimized BLE firmware to extend sensor battery life by 40%, ensuring long-term deployment in industrial asset management applications.
- Integrated BLE sensors with Raspberry Pi-based edge computing systems, enabling predictive maintenance by processing sensor data locally before cloud transmission.
Technologies: Bluetooth, C, C++, Python, Embedded Systems, Architectural Engineering, Embedded C, Cloud Architecture, Qt
OPC UA Server Architect
2019 - 2019
Lego Asset Management Solutions, Chennai
- Developed OPC UA server solutions using Raspberry Pi and Python, optimizing industrial communication and enhancing data interoperability across legacy systems.
- Integrated OPC UA with existing industrial infrastructure, improving data exchange efficiency and reducing latency in real-time monitoring applications.
- Implemented secure and scalable OPC UA architecture using Codesys and Kepware, ensuring reliable data transmission for predictive maintenance and automation.
- Optimized industrial data flow by incorporating MQTT and Modbus with OPC UA, enabling seamless connectivity between edge devices and enterprise systems.
Technologies: OPC UA, Modbus Protocol, MQTT, C++, C, Embedded Systems, Architectural Engineering, Embedded C, Cloud Architecture, Qt
IBM Maximo/RPA Consultant
2018 - 2018
CIBAVision, Indonesia
- Developed automation robots using UIPath to streamline IBM Maximo workflows, enhancing efficiency in service request creation, purchase requisitions, and currency updates.
- Automated the creation of Maximo service requests by integrating email parsing, reducing manual effort and response time for issue resolution.
- Implemented a robotic process to generate purchase requisitions from email requests, ensuring seamless procurement workflow automation in Maximo.
- Integrated real-time currency exchange rate updates from xe.com into Maximo, eliminating manual data entry and ensuring accurate financial transactions.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Architectural Engineering
IBM Maximo Functional Consultant
2018 - 2018
NGHI SON REFINERY AND PETROCHEMICAL LLC , Vietnam
- Developed a new Maximo Purchase Module application, enhancing procurement efficiency by streamlining purchase request workflows.
- Designed technical specifications aligning with functional requirements, ensuring seamless integration with IBM Maximo's existing architecture.
- Configured SQL Server, domains, custom lookups, and escalation tasks in Maximo, improving data retrieval and automation.
- Created new screens in Maximo Application Designer, optimizing user experience and enabling better asset and purchase order management.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Architectural Engineering
IBM Maximo Functional Consultant
2016 - 2018
Kuwait Oil
- Developed a new process hazard analysis application in IBM Maximo, improving risk assessment workflows for Kuwait Oil Company within a two-month project timeframe.
- Led the upgrade of a highly customized IBM Maximo 7.1 instance to Maximo 7.6, ensuring seamless data migration and system continuity for Kuwait Oil Company.
- Configured Maximo screens, domains, custom lookups, and SQL Server settings to optimize asset management operations for NGHI SON Refinery and Petrochemical LLC.
- Automated data conversion from Maximo 7.1 to 7.6, reducing manual intervention by 40% and enhancing data integrity during system migration.
- Developed training materials for IBM Maximo v7.6, enabling structured knowledge transfer for enterprise asset management across multiple business units.
- Designed workflows and application screens in IBM Maximo for enhanced work order management, ensuring compliance with Kuwait Oil Company’s asset management policies.
- Implemented robotic process automation (RPA) in Maximo using UIPath, streamlining service request creation, purchase requisitions, and currency exchange rate updates.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, Architectural Engineering
IBM Maximo Implementation Consultant
2016 - 2016
South Pacific Brewery , Papua New Guinea
- Designed and implemented customized workflows in IBM Maximo using Workflow Designer, streamlining asset management and improving operational efficiency.
- Developed technical designs for Maximo customizations, ensuring seamless integration with existing systems and enhancing asset tracking capabilities.
- Installed and configured IBM Maximo 7.5 on Windows Server 2012 R2 with SQL Server, optimizing system performance and reliability.
- Executed data migration from flat files to Maximo using MEA integration, ensuring accurate and efficient transfer of asset records.
- Conducted process definition interviews and gathered key business requirements to align Maximo implementation with operational needs.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, Python, Architectural Engineering
IBM Maximo Consultant
2015 - 2015
Tenaga Nasional Berhad , Malaysia
- Conducted workshops across multiple business functions, gathering requirements and aligning IBM Maximo with organizational goals, ensuring seamless system integration.
- Analyzed existing workflows and proposed process improvements, enhancing IBM Maximo efficiency and optimizing asset management operations.
- Directed project teams in the design and implementation of IBM Maximo, ensuring timely deployment and adherence to best practices.
- Collaborated with stakeholders to define IBM Maximo configurations, customizing modules to improve asset tracking and preventive maintenance workflows.
- Translated business needs into IBM Maximo functionalities, ensuring smooth application development and maximizing system utilization.
Technologies: IBM Maximo, SQL, IBM Db2, Linux, Python, Architectural Engineering
Experience
Monitoring System
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yANHPZfIGaII developed an IoT-enabled condition-monitoring solution for AC motors using voltage, current, and vibration sensors. I architected the system with Raspberry Pi for edge processing and data collection, implementing OPC UA and MQTT protocols for real-time data transmission to IBM Maximo. I configured automated predictive maintenance workflows based on sensor thresholds, reducing equipment downtime by enabling early fault detection and predictive maintenance.
Smart Electrical Asset Transformation: Integrating OPC UA, MQTT, Python, and IBM Maximo
Leveraged extensive electrical expertise to transform asset management for Tenaga Nasional Berhad. At Tenaga Nasional Berhad, engineered an IIoT solution that utilized OPC UA for seamless interfacing with electrical systems and MQTT for robust, real-time sensor data transmission. Developed Python-based analytics to optimize performance and enable predictive maintenance, driving enhanced asset reliability.
At National Grid Saudi Arabia, architected an IBM Maximo IIoT application stack by integrating OPC brokers and automating PLC data collection, streamlining workflows, and improving decision-making. This consolidated project merged electrical system insight with digital innovation, delivering a scalable, data-centric solution that maximized operational efficiency and minimized downtime.
At National Grid Saudi Arabia, architected an IBM Maximo IIoT application stack by integrating OPC brokers and automating PLC data collection, streamlining workflows, and improving decision-making. This consolidated project merged electrical system insight with digital innovation, delivering a scalable, data-centric solution that maximized operational efficiency and minimized downtime.
Education
2019 - 2020
Postgraduate Degree in Materials Management
Annamalai University - Chennai, India
1989 - 1992
Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics
University of Kerala - Kerala, India
Certifications
APRIL 2016 - PRESENT
IBM Tivoli Maximo Asset Management V7.5 Implementation Certified Professional
IBM
Skills
Tools
IBM Maximo, MQTT, Node-RED
Languages
Python, C, Embedded C, C++, SQL, Python 3
Platforms
Raspberry Pi, Arduino, AWS IoT, Linux, Ollama
Frameworks
Qt
Paradigms
REST
Storage
IBM Db2
Other
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), ESP32, Architectural Engineering, CODESYS, OPC UA, APIs, Edge Computing, Software, Programming, Internet Protocols, Communication, Hardware, Voltage-controlled Oscillators (VCO), Vibration Sensors, OPC Data Access, Embedded Systems, Cloud Architecture, PLC, Electronics, Materials Management, Robotic Process Automation (RPA), Modbus Protocol, SCADA, Internet of Things (IoT), Bluetooth, 5G, Llama 3, Human-machine Interface (HMI), Supervisory Control & Data Acquisition (SCADA), Variable Frequency Drive (VFD)
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