Security Systems Specialist

Job Summary

The University of Wisconsin - Madison Police Department (UWPD) is hiring Security Systems Specialists. The Security Systems Specialist provides technical administration, maintenance, and support for the campus access control and video security systems. This position functions as a shared resource between two operational areas responsible for critical security technologies. While assigned a primary supervisor and focus area—either Access Control Technologies or Video/Camera Technologies—the incumbent is expected to develop and maintain proficiency in both disciplines and serve as a backup resource for the complementary area. This cross-functional role helps ensure operational continuity, system reliability, and consistent service delivery across campus security systems. Success in this position requires strong technical expertise, effective communication skills, collaboration, and the ability to work independently in support of the institution's safety and security objectives.

This position works closely with personnel in both the Access Control and Video/Camera Technology areas to support, maintain, and enhance enterprise security systems. The Security Systems Specialist reports to an assigned supervisor within their primary area of responsibility while maintaining a collaborative partnership with the secondary area to provide cross-training, backup coverage, shared technical expertise, and coordinated support for campus security infrastructure.

Work Schedule

This position is typically scheduled Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The role also requires participation in a rotating on-call schedule and will require occasional work outside normal business hours, including evenings, weekends, and special events, as operational needs dictate. This is an onsite position that requires work to be performed in person at a designated campus location.

Responsibilities

• Identifies and recommends alternative technology solutions to stakeholders to meet user needs
• Designs, installs, troubleshoots, and services complex electronic control systems and locks to meet customer specifications
• Responds to service requests through various communication mediums
• Analyzes and interprets complex hardware, door schedules and lock patterns, and updates information based on user requests and needs
• Distributes security devices, tracks inventory, and updates associated records
• Required to work special events or assignments as designated by the Department

Qualifications

Required:

• Strong written and oral communications skills
• Ability to problem solve technical issues
• General computer skills: proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Good interpersonal communications skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Ability to work flexible hours to be on call and staff special events as needed
• Valid Driver's License with a minimum of 2 years driving experience and meets UW Risk Management Standards
• Must pass initial application screening, all steps of the hiring process, an extensive background investigation including past employment, reference checks, social media check, credit history, drug screen and medical and psychological examination prior to beginning employment
• H.S. Diploma required

Preferred:

• Experience working on multiple levels of access control or security camera systems and resolving hardware or software issues, compatibility issues, and/or system integration or equivalent certificate or degree may be considered in lieu of experience
• Experience administering a security camera system and/or access control system
• Experience troubleshooting hardware and/or software issues
• Knowledge of video management systems, access control systems, network infrastructure, low-voltage wiring and cabling and/or use of artificial intelligence systems used in security systems
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and/or technical manuals
• Strong documentation and reporting skills

Compensation

Salary: $60,000 - $85,000 (Depending on Qualifications)

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance and prescription coverage
• Supplemental dental and vision insurance
• Life insurance options
• Accident coverage
• Income continuation insurance (short and long term disability)
• Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts
• Coverage under the Wisconsin Retirement System (employer matching)
• 403(b) and 457(b) Supplemental Retirement Accounts
• Education Tuition Reimbursement
• Paid Trainings
• Generous paid vacation benefits
• Nine paid legal holidays
• Paid personal holidays
• Paid sick leave
• 6 weeks Paid Parental Leave (after 6 months of employment)
• On duty paid workouts
• Department provided physical therapy
• Fitness room
• Financial and wellness workshops
• Group fitness activities

Contact Information

Scout Umnus — 608-608-1038 — careers@uwpd.wisc.edu