Physical Security Engineer

About the role

The Physical Security Engineer (PSE) is part of the CloudHQ Data Center Operations team. The PSE reports to the Security Program Manager and provides support and management for the day-to-day security operations of CloudHQ’s large-scale data centers, ensuring the highest levels of security, plant safety, and tenant availability.

Responsibilities

• Develop operating strategies and maintenance programs to ensure continuous availability and functionality of critical security systems (e.g., access control, network video, visitor management).
• Develop standards and templates for future security implementations.
• Support internal and external audits (e.g., SSAE18 compliance, ISO 27001).
• Improve automated internal and external security reports.
• Write procedures for the use of security systems.
• Coordinate and inspect services and projects performed by outsourced vendors.
• Manage costs and budgets associated with the security infrastructure and operations.
• Maintain an environment where diligence to policies and proven processes is a baseline requirement.
• Ensure best security and safety practices and standards are adopted and enforced.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for innovation and efficiencies.
• Establish and cultivate working relationships with key contacts internally and externally (e.g., emergency responders, fire, law enforcement, tenants).
• Be available to respond to all emergencies (e.g., medical, fire, intrusions, and other threats).
• Knowledge and familiarization with all emergency response plans and evacuation procedures, including participation in fire evacuation drills.
• Achieve and maintain manufacturer technical certifications for relevant security systems.
• Maintain as-built documentation for all systems.
• Assist with tours, incident response, and investigations.

Requirements

• Extensive knowledge of facility physical security, security systems architecture, and industry best practices.
• Proficiency in popular Microsoft Office suite applications, access control systems, and related software.
• Advanced oral and written communication and technical writing skills.
• Excellent customer service skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to identify key issues, analyze data, and use technical and organizational expertise to develop creative and innovative solutions.
• Identify trends and articulate implications that will impact data center operations.
• Actively solicit feedback to ensure all activities and deliverables meet or exceed expectations.
• Ability to handle typical emergency and crisis situations efficiently and effectively.
• Travel between company facilities as needed.
• Occasional domestic and limited international travel may be required.
• Availability to respond to urgent business needs outside normal business hours.
• Extended work hours may be required during peak periods or emergencies.
• Must be able to travel independently to company facilities and other business locations as required.
• Valid driver's license and ability to maintain an acceptable driving record.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited University in a related field or equivalent professional experience in lieu of a degree.
• ASIS PSP Certification.
• Technical certifications from access control and video surveillance manufacturers.
• Three or more years of security or law enforcement management and security systems in a high-reliability data center environment or equivalent.
• Three or more years of experience managing personnel.
• Participation in security-related organizations (e.g., International Association of Chiefs of Police, Association of Certified Fraud Examiners, American Society of Industrial Security, or similar organizations).

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and rewarding incentives.
• Comprehensive benefits (medical, dental, vision, life insurance, disability).
• 401(k) with company match.
• 12 paid holidays.
• Generous PTO.
• Development opportunities.