Security Manager

Salary: $59,737.00 - $94,432.00 Annually
Location : Des Moines - 50319 - Polk County, IA
Job Type: Full-time
Job Number: 27-00340
Agency: 444 Judicial
Opening Date: 08/03/2026
Closing Date: 8/23/2026 11:59 PM Central
LinkedIn Tag: #LI-DNP
Point of Contact: View email address on click.appcast.io
To Apply: Candidates need to complete the NEOGOV application and attach a cover letter and resume. Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.


Job Description
The Iowa Judicial Branch is seeking a highly skilled and mission-driven Security Manager to develop, lead, and oversee comprehensive security operations that protect judicial officers, court facilities, visitors, and critical assets across all 99 counties and 100 courthouses. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced law enforcement professional to apply leadership, strategic planning, and operational expertise in support of the administration of justice.

The Security Manager plays a critical role in maintaining a safe and secure environment throughout the Iowa Judicial Branch. This position is responsible for developing security strategies, overseeing emergency preparedness, coordinating with law enforcement agencies, managing security resources and technology, and supervising staff assigned to security operations. The role will also include regularly performing Security Guard duties in the Judicial Branch Building.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is dedicated to providing fair and impartial justice while fostering a professional and respectful workplace. As Security Manager, you will help safeguard the people, facilities, and operations that support Iowa's court system and the communities it serves.

What's in it for you:

• Collaborative, positive professional work environment
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities
• Excellent benefits package
• Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave
• Iowa Public Employees' Retirement System (IPERS) plan
• Employee discount program
• Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program.

The pay range for this position is $59,737.00 - $94,432.00 annually. This is an FLSA-exempt position. The starting salary for new state employees is expected to be at the base of the pay range. Adjustments may be made if the successful candidate has relevant experience.


Position classification is determined as the 'best fit' of the duties assigned to and performed by a position. This position is classified as a Security Manager as summarized below.


Summary

Oversee and implement comprehensive security operations for the Iowa Judicial Branch.


Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Supervise and evaluate the work of subordinates; enforce personnel policies and procedures such as training and coaching employees; manage work schedules, time-offs, and leaves; conduct performance evaluations; and follow disciplinary and grievance procedures.
• Develop and implement security policies, protocols, and procedures to ensure the safety and security of judicial officers, employees, assets, and visitors.
• Respond to security incidents or emergencies, providing leadership and direction. Communicate and collaborate security concerns with law enforcement, if needed.
• Develop and oversee emergency procedures and standard operating procedures.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of security operations.
• Conduct regular security audits and risk assessments.
• Communicate and coordinate with law enforcement and other security agencies as necessary.
• Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal regulations regarding security.
• Oversee security, surveillance, and emergency response equipment operation, updates, maintenance, and training.
• Prepare and present reports on security status, operations, events, potential and actual incidents to senior management.
• Develop and manage the security budget and resources.
• May escort and provide security to assigned judicial officers and key leaders during events or travel, as needed.
• Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of applicable safety and security policies and protocols.
• Ability to handle high-stress situations and make quick decisions.
• Strong attention to detail and situational awareness.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to respond during irregular work shifts (nights/days) and under adverse weather conditions.
• Ability to respond to security incidents or emergency situations.
• Ability to handle confrontational situations.

Working Conditions

• May include some evening shifts and occasional travel, including some overnight stays, usually within the state.
• May include long periods of standing.
• Exposure to risk of illness and injury from situations that may be hostile and dangerous.
• May be armed with a firearm while on duty. If carrying a firearm, must maintain annual qualification and an Iowa Professional Permit.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations. Please go to and click on the Careers page.


Candidates need to complete the NEOGOV application and attach a cover letter and resume. Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.


This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.


Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.
Minimum Qualification Requirements
The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position.

1. Law Enforcement Academy graduate, or equivalent training.

1. Seven (7) years' experience in the law enforcement field.

The incumbent must be able to obtain and maintain CPR/AED certification.


A completed IJB LinkedIn Learning Leadership and Professional Development Certificate is equivalent to six (6) months of education or experience for supervisory-level positions.

Additional Qualification Requirements
Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Public Administration, Emergency Management, Homeland Security, Security Management, or a closely related field.
• Supervisory or command-level experience leading security, law enforcement, or public safety personnel.
• Experience developing and implementing organization-wide security programs and procedures.
• Experience providing executive protection, dignitary protection, or judicial security services.
• Experience conducting threat assessments, risk analysis, and vulnerability evaluations.
• Experience managing physical security systems.

01


Do you understand that the answers to all of the following questions must be truthful, honest, and accurate to the best of your ability? Please read all questions and answers thoroughly and make sure you understand them completely. Ensure the answers to your questions match the information filled out on your application and the attachments you have uploaded. Knowingly misrepresenting the facts when submitting any information related to an application, examination, certification, appeal, or any other facet of the selection process will result in your disqualification from this application and future employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch.

• Yes
• No

02


PLEASE READ CAREFULLYHave you filed a registration statement pursuant to the federal Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended, 22 U.S.C. S611 et seq?

• Yes
• No

03


Please explain any gaps in your employment history?
04


Have you ever received a disciplinary suspension, been asked to resign, or discharged from a job? If yes please explain below.
05


What is your minimum salary requirement?
06


Your application for employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch will generally be treated as confidential under Iowa Code section 22.7(18). However, if you consent to allow Judicial to treat it as a public record per Iowa Code section 22.7(18)(a), please check "Yes, I consent" below.

• Yes, I consent
• No

07


List any professional licenses you hold:
08


Current Iowa Judicial Branch Employees ONLY: Have you completed the Iowa Judicial Branch LinkedIn Learning Leadership and Professional Development Certification?

• Yes
• No
• Not Applicable

09


Applicants with international degrees: Have you attached an international education equivalency verification document? We highly recommend for further consideration.

• I have attached an international education equivalency verification document
• I have not attached an international education equivalency verification document
• Not Applicable

10


Are you related to or do you have a close personal relationship with any current employee? If so, please identify the individual and department.
11


This role requires regular, in-person work. Are you willing to commute or relocate, if necessary, to fulfill this requirement?"

• Yes
• No

Required Question