Building Security Services Specialist III

Iowa State University • Ames, IA

4d

About The Position

The Iowa State University Department of Public Safety is seeking a highly skilled Building Security Services Specialist III to support and enhance campus security and facility access systems. This position requires advanced computer and business process skills, expert knowledge of keying and hardware systems, and strong project management abilities. The successful candidate will play a critical role in ensuring campus safety by overseeing keying projects, reviewing security-related construction elements, and collaborating with campus partners to maintain compliance with university policies and federal security standards. The Department of Public Safety at Iowa State University is dedicated to providing a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for the entire campus community. The department works collaboratively with students, faculty, staff, and external partners to deliver comprehensive safety and security services that support the university’s mission of teaching, research, and outreach. Joining this team means being part of a trusted group of professionals committed to proactive problem-solving, operational excellence, and safeguarding the university’s people, property, and resources. In addition to Iowa State University's standard background check, candidates are required to successfully complete additional background checks, thorough reference checks, and pre-employment health evaluation(s) in accordance with the Department of Public Safety's hiring practices.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent and 5 years of related experience.
• Drivers License
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the U.S. on an ongoing basis without sponsorship.
• Immigration sponsorship is not available for this position.

Nice To Haves

• Certified Facilities or Security Credential (Such as Certified Protection Professional (CPP), Physical Security Professional (PSP), or a related facilities management or access control certification.)
• Experience configuring and maintaining complex electronic key management systems in a large institutional or multi-building environment.
• Formal training or experience managing multi-phase projects, budgets, and vendors.
• Knowledge of building construction and security standards.
• Experience collaborating with various stakeholders, such as: campus units, contractors, and vendors.

Responsibilities

• Master the use of multiple software platforms, including Simple K (key management), FAMIS/TMA (work order management), Lucernex (project management), and TRAKA (electronic key cabinet management).
• Receive, integrate, and document customer requests accurately for accountability and audit purposes.
• Demonstrate advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite to support project planning, tracking, and reporting.
• Apply moderate knowledge of building construction, particularly elements related to building security.
• Oversee components of capital projects, small projects, and self-initiated repairs; lead facility rekeying efforts.
• Serve as project manager for assigned work—scoping, bidding, procuring supplies, and formalizing work to be completed.
• Partner with campus units to review project specifications, remodel plans, and security modifications for compliance and best practices.
• Evaluate, audit, and implement process or hardware changes using critical analysis aligned with university standards.
• Maintain accurate records for keying systems, hardware components, access levels, and expenditures.
• Manage security-sensitive tasks, including access to federally controlled spaces with national security implications.
• Provide expert knowledge of hardware, keys, and acceptable usage types to guide decision-making.
• Engage professionally with customers, contractors, vendors, and internal stakeholders to resolve project and keying issues.
• Mitigate and resolve high-impact issues exceeding $100,000 in scope, acting as a first-line managerial contact.
• Interpret ISU policies to determine appropriate actions for complex security and operational scenarios.
• Coordinates, configures, operates, and maintains physical and electronic security systems.
• Assists with developing customer rates and managing budget.
• Oversees and coordinates with staff on access and maintenance for security systems.
• Collaborates with vendors and contractors for security support.
• Assists in developing policies and procedures related to building access, surveillance, and security.

Benefits

• Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental
• Retirement benefits including defined benefit and defined contribution plans
• Generous vacation, holiday and sick time and leave plans
• Onsite childcare (Ames, Iowa)
• Life insurance and long-term disability
• Flexible Spending Accounts
• Various voluntary benefits and discounts
• Employee Assistance Program
• Wellbeing program

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees