Physical Security & Fire Systems Administrator, Austin Facilities Management

City of Austin

8d•$80,490 - $102,200•Onsite

About The Position

This role oversees and maintains physical security and fire alarm systems across City of Austin facilities. It administers access control, surveillance, intrusion detection, and life‑safety technologies; deploys and troubleshoots related hardware and software; and ensures system performance, compliance, and operational efficiency. The position coordinates contractors, manages documentation, supports disaster recovery planning, and evaluates emerging technologies. It also collaborates with information security teams, analyzes system data, and trains customers on system use. May provide leadership and guidance to other staff.

Requirements

Knowledge of applicable processes, techniques, and methods in the physical security industry.
Knowledge of facilities management practices, policies, and procedures.
Knowledge of risk management programs.
Knowledge of infrastructure technologies.
Knowledge of application and/or operating systems.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
Skill in using computers and related software applications.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Skill in understanding threats and mitigation practices.
Skill in designing and implementing access control, CCTV, and intrusion detection systems.
Skill in network administration, installation, configuring and maintaining servers and hardware.
Skill in providing day-to-day system/application administration and/or system/application administration in support in a variety of work environments.
Skill in installing and maintaining applications, operating systems, or equipment.
Skill in identifying complex problems and reviewing related information to develop and evaluate options and to implement solutions.
Skill in selecting and using training/instructional methods and procedures appropriate for the situation when learning or teaching new concepts.
Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems.
Ability to view the big picture when involved in a project and make decisions.
Ability to quickly become familiar with emerging technologies.
Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with City employees and the public.
Ability to work with frequent interruptions and changes in priorities.
Ability to train others.
Ability to monitor and respond to security incidents.
Graduation with a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a field related to the job, plus (4) four years related to physical security experience.
Experience in a related field may substitute for education of up to four (4) years.
Valid Class C Texas driver’s license

Nice To Haves

Experience preparing technical reports and security system issues to both technical and non-technical personnel.
Experience working in a municipal, government, or other large enterprise environment is preferred.
Experience analyzing security systems data and reports to identify trends, vulnerabilities, unauthorized activity, or systems deficiencies.
Experience conducting security assessments, reviews, and system performance evaluations.
Experience monitoring service contracts, warranties and vendor performance.

Responsibilities

Administer and maintain physical security and fire alarm systems across diverse City of Austin facilities, including access control, surveillance, intrusion detection, and fire/security alarm technologies.
Deploy, configure, optimize, and troubleshoot security and fire system hardware, software, and supporting back‑end infrastructure.
Monitor system performance, proactively resolve issues, and ensure ongoing operational efficiency and compliance with City of Austin standards.
Oversee contractors and vendors performing physical security work and ensure adherence to project specifications and standards.
Manage physical security documentation, including classification guidance and access control protocols.
Plan, research, test, and implement new technologies, system upgrades, and software releases for physical security and fire systems.
Participate in disaster recovery planning, testing, and maintenance, including fault tolerance strategies.
Provide cost analysis and ensure appropriate product specifications for physical security and life safety projects.
Assist in planning, designing, procuring, and delivering physical and fire security hardware and software solutions.
Collaborate with information security teams to enhance organizational security practices and support ongoing development of the facilities security program.
Maintain accurate records of system activities, service actions, and customer interactions.
Train and educate customers on system functionality and appropriate responses to alarms.
May provide leadership, work assignments, evaluation, and guidance to others.