Access Control Specialist

Job Description Access Control Specialist Department: Operations Reports To: Access Control Supervisor / Director of Safety & Security Schedule: Varied shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays Status: On-site, essential position (24/7 operations) Position Summary The Access Control Specialist is responsible for maintaining the safety, security, and controlled access of The Westchester Corporation’s residential property. This role operates from and in coordination with the Security Office, which serves as the centralized monitoring, access enforcement, and emergency response hub for the property. Key elements of the role include: Monitoring and controlling access to a multi-unit residential property Operating from the Security Office as a centralized safety and response hub Overseeing building life-safety and security systems Serving as a frontline responder during incidents and emergencies Providing after-hours assistance to Member-Owners and residents Core Responsibilities & Essential Duties Security Office, Monitoring & Access Operations Staff and operate the Security Office as the centralized monitoring and response hub Monitor CCTV surveillance systems Monitor fire alarm panels, including acknowledgment and escalation Oversee loading dock operations, including deliveries, move-ins/outs, and vendor access Monitor building access control systems, alarms, and restricted entry points Verify, credential, and manage contractor and vendor access by: Confirming authorization prior to granting entry Verifying identification and scope of work Issuing and collecting visitor credentials, badges, or lanyards Logging contractor arrival and departure times Ensuring contractors access only approved areas Enforce access control protocols to ensure only authorized residents, guests, vendors, and contractors are permitted entry Respond to alarms, alerts, and observed incidents in accordance with established procedures Document all access events, security activities, incidents, and contractor activity in logs and systems Patrol & Property Monitoring Conduct routine patrols of buildings, garages, parking areas, and grounds Ensure perimeter doors, restricted areas, and storage spaces are secure Identify and report safety, security, or maintenance concerns Enter work orders for hazards or maintenance issues such as lights out using BuildingLink or similar systems Monitor parking areas and issue violation notices as required Patrol bicycle storage areas and garages to ensure authorized use Emergency Response & Coordination Act as a frontline responder during emergencies Notify police, fire, medical services, on-call management, and engineering staff as required Coordinate access and guide responding emergency personnel on-site Assist with resident safety actions, including evacuation guidance, in accordance with emergency procedures Maintain accurate incident reports and shift logs After-Hours Resident Assistance & Communications Provide after-hours support to Member-Owners and residents by: Answering incoming calls Routing calls to appropriate on-call personnel Providing general building information as appropriate Initiate emergency notifications to on-call Managers, on-call Engineers, or emergency services as required Maintain detailed records of calls, notifications, and actions taken Resident & Guest Support (Security-Focused) Assist residents with lockouts, guest access, and access-related inquiries Provide directions and assistance to guests and vendors as appropriate Coordinate with Member Services Specialists to support resident needs while maintaining role clarity Operational Support Maintain detailed shift logs and security reports Assist with ice melt application for walkways, entrances, and driveways as needed for safety Support Operations and Management as directed during incidents or special circumstances Essential Position & Scheduling Requirements This role is designated as an essential position. Access Control Specialists are required to report to work as scheduled, including during inclement weather, weekends, holidays, and emergency situations, unless otherwise directed by Management. Because this position supports 24/7 building security, safety monitoring, and emergency response, consistent attendance and reliability are critical. Systems, Technology & Tools BuildingLink or comparable building management software Access control systems including key fobs, access cards, intercoms, and visitor management platforms CCTV monitoring and alarm systems Fire alarm monitoring panels Telephone and call-routing systems Digital logbooks and incident reporting tools Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Strong understanding of access control, security operations, and emergency response protocols High level of situational awareness and attention to detail Ability to remain calm, professional, and decisive under pressure Clear verbal and written communication skills Ability to work independently with minimal supervision Proven ability to collaborate with Operations, Member Services, and Management Reliable transportation and flexibility to work varied shifts Education & Experience High School Diploma or equivalent required One to three years of experience in access control, security, or a related field Residential or multi-unit property experience preferred Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods Ability to patrol indoor and outdoor areas in varying conditions Ability to stoop, bend, reach, push, and pull Ability to lift and carry up to 65 pounds Supervisory Responsibilities None Company Description Overview of The Westchester Built in 1931 on one of the highest points in the city, The Westchester is a five-building, self-governing, member-owner co-op community that houses more than 500 apartments ranging in size from studios to three bedrooms. The Westchester maintains its original grandeur, with more than 10 acres of beautiful, landscaped grounds, including a three-level sunken garden, and provides numerous amenities and commercial services, including a grocery store, restaurant, fitness center, valet, library, hair salon, barbershop, guest rooms, and on-site parking. The Westchester is a short walk from restaurants and other businesses in neighboring Glover Park, Cathedral Heights, and Georgetown, and is adjacent to Glover-Archbold Park. The Westchester offers more than a home, but also a diverse, vibrant, engaged multi-generational community where member-owners collaborate with The Westchester staff on multiple fronts. Our Main Lobby is the site of a concert series with performances by professional musicians. The community holds monthly gatherings where neighbors can get to know one another. We are also electronically connected, with an internal website and social media. The Westchester seeks to set the standard for a quality living experience in our nation's capital, and central to our success is a dedicated team of professionals focused on exceptional customer service, operational efficiency, and innovation. Westchester staff have provided a legacy of excellence that has contributed to the ongoing success of our community. As The Westchester nears its centennial as one of Washington’s best-known addresses, we are embarking on exciting developments, with an ambitious long-range capital plan to modernize the physical and virtual infrastructure and to build a strong, forward-looking management structure. As an employer, The Westchester is dedicated to providing a supportive and inclusive work environment. We value integrity, innovation, and collaboration, encouraging our employees to share their ideas, take initiative, and grow their careers. The Westchester is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences #J-18808-Ljbffr