LEAD SECURITY SPECIALIST (DEPARTMENT OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT) COUNTYWIDE

Job Summary Responsible for the bureau’s/department’s security operations. Leads the agency’s protective framework by assisting in the development and implementation of a comprehensive and compliant security strategy. In partnership with authorities having jurisdiction, cultivates security readiness across the organization through the strategic development and deployment of emergency response protocols and staff training. Acts as the central intelligence and liaison point, managing external partnerships and analyzing threat data to deliver informed strategic forecasts to senior leadership. Provides guidance to the bureau/department on safety procedures and leads the coordination of incident response operations while continually evaluating facility security systems. Ensures the agency’s security documentation and practices adhere to applicable standards, regulations, and recognized best practices. Minimum Qualifications Graduation from an accredited college or university with a Bachelor’s Degree or higher. Five (5) years of security operations, law enforcement, or emergency management experience or directly related experience. An equivalent combination of education and/or experience. Valid driver’s license and proof of automobile insurance. Preferred Qualifications Seven (7) years of experience in security operations, law enforcement, or emergency management. Position is considered a safety‑sensitive position. Candidates who are selected must pass a required drug test as part of the pre‑employment background check process. Candidates who are contacted will be required to produce original documents (e.g., current driver’s license, diploma, school transcript, certifications, etc.) within five (5) days of an offer. Candidates will be notified of how to submit required documents. Degrees awarded outside of the United States, except those earned in U.S. territories and Canada, must be credentialed by the World Education Services (WES), Educational Credential Evaluators (ECE) or a National Association of Credential Evaluation (NACES) member organization. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Knowledge of public sector security best practices, standards, and regulatory compliance requirements. Ability to travel to various work locations throughout Cook County. Ability to gather, analyze, and integrate intelligence from various sources to produce accurate threat assessments. Knowledge of security risk assessment methodologies and protocol implementation practices. Knowledge of emergency preparedness planning and continuity of operations. Skill in organizing meetings, training sessions, and briefings related to safety and emergency procedures. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and familiarity with security management systems. Ability to facilitate communication and collaboration across internal departments and external agencies, including law enforcement and emergency management partners. Physical Requirements Sedentary work involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally or a negligible amount of force frequently to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects. Work involves sitting most of the time but may involve walking or standing for brief periods. Veteran Preference When applying, preference is given to honorably discharged Veterans who have served for more than 180 consecutive days, or during War Time. Veterans must identify themselves as a veteran on their application and attach a copy of their DD 214, DD 215, or NGB 22. Veterans must provide original applicable discharge papers at interview. Group and Voluntary Benefits Offered Medical, Dental, and Vision Basic Term Life Insurance Pension Plan Deferred Compensation Program Employee Assistance Program Paid Holidays, Vacation, and Sick Time Voluntary Benefits Potential eligibility for Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) *This position requires successful completion of post‑offer tests, which may include a background check, drug screen, and medical examination. EEO Statement Cook County Government is an Equal Employment Opportunity (“EEO”) employer. Cook County prohibits illegal discrimination and harassment and affords equal employment opportunities to employees and applicants without regard to race, color, sex, age, religion, disability, national origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, marital status, parental status, source of income, housing status, military service or discharge status, gender identity, genetic information, or any other protected category established by law, statute or ordinance. Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship. #J-18808-Ljbffr Cook County Government