Physical Security Specialist

Title: Physical Security Specialist

Location: Springfield, VA

Duration: 12 Months Contract + Possibility of Extension

Shift: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday)

Note: Those Candidates who can work on W2 basis without any sponsorship are encouraged to apply.

Position Summary

The Physical Security Specialist supports the organization's physical security program through security assessments, facility inspections, incident management, security technology administration, and capital improvement initiatives. This position assists in protecting company personnel, critical infrastructure, facilities, and assets by identifying security vulnerabilities, supporting security operations, and helping implement risk mitigation measures.

The Specialist conducts Security Vulnerability Assessments (SVAs), performs site inspections, supports investigations of security incidents, administers physical security systems, and assists with projects involving access control, video surveillance, perimeter protection, and other security technologies. The position works closely with operations, facilities, engineering, information technology, emergency management, and external stakeholders to enhance the company's overall security posture.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Security Vulnerability Assessments (SVAs)
• Conduct physical security assessments of company facilities, offices, operational sites, and critical infrastructure.
• Identify vulnerabilities related to access control, perimeter security, surveillance coverage, lighting, intrusion detection, and facility hardening.
• Document findings and develop risk-based recommendations for corrective actions.
• Assist in maintaining facility security risk assessments and associated records.
• Support periodic reviews of high-consequence and critical facilities.

Facility Security Inspections

• Perform routine and special site security inspections.
• Evaluate compliance with corporate security policies, standards, and procedures.
• Verify functionality of security equipment and protective measures.
• Track corrective actions and monitor closure of identified deficiencies.
• Support security audits and regulatory inspections as required.

Incident Management and Investigations

• Respond to and document security incidents including unauthorized access, theft, vandalism, suspicious activity, workplace disturbances, and facility security violations.
• Conduct preliminary fact-finding and evidence collection.
• Review access control and video management system records to support investigations.
• Prepare incident reports and after-action summaries.
• Track incident trends and recommend preventive measures.

Security Operations and Technology

• Support daily operation of physical security systems including:
• Access control systems
• Badge and credential management
• Video surveillance systems
• Video Management Systems (VMS)
• Intrusion detection systems
• Visitor management systems
• Review and maintain camera inventories and camera placement documentation.
• Monitor system performance and coordinate repairs with vendors and internal stakeholders.
• Assist in user access management and credential issuance processes.
• Support security technology testing and system upgrades.

Capital Security Improvement Projects

• Assist with the planning, implementation, and tracking of physical security capital projects.
• Support camera upgrades, access control improvements, perimeter protection enhancements, and facility hardening initiatives.
• Participate in project meetings, site visits, and vendor coordination activities.
• Review project designs and specifications to ensure alignment with security requirements.
• Support project documentation, budgeting, and closeout activities.

Program Administration

• Maintain security records, assessment reports, site drawings, and asset inventories.
• Develop reports, dashboards, and presentations for management.
• Track project milestones, corrective actions, and assessment findings.
• Support security awareness initiatives and employee training programs.
• Assist in the development and maintenance of security procedures and standards.

Required Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Homeland Security, Emergency Management, Security Management, Business, or a related field; or
• Equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.

Experience

• 0 to 3 years of experience in physical security, law enforcement, military, emergency management, facilities security, investigations, or related fields.
• Internship or cooperative experience in security-related disciplines is desirable.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Basic understanding of physical security principles and risk management.
• Knowledge of access control, CCTV, video management systems, and badge systems.
• Ability to conduct inspections and security assessments.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to prepare professional reports and presentations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications.
• Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities simultaneously.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work across departments.