Physical Security & Operations Officer

K2 Space•Los Angeles, CA

6d•Onsite

About The Position

The Physical Security Specialist supports K2’s Collateral, SCI, and SAP security programs at facilities in the Torrance, California area. The role supports core security operations, including managing visit requests, producing employee, tenant, and visitor badges, conducting security training, and maintaining corporate and government security databases. The position’s functions are performed with increasing independence as proficiency is demonstrated. The role includes personnel security processing, records management and compliance, customer support and coordination, and administrative reporting. The specialist maintains accurate security records, supports access briefings and debriefings, responds to employee and stakeholder inquiries, coordinates with government agencies, and helps prepare for facility inspections and program reviews. Other duties may be assigned by the Director of Security.

Requirements

Must be willing to submit for a Top Secret security clearance with SCI eligibility.
Must be willing to submit to a CI Poly.
At least 2 years of experience in physical security, security administration, or a closely related government or contractor security support role.
Hands-on experience with security systems, including initiating investigations, processing visit requests, handling submission workflows, and resolving system discrepancies.
Working knowledge of the National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM / 32 CFR Part 117), ICD 704, and applicable DCSA assessment and adjudication guidelines.
Exceptional attention to detail, including the ability to review complex forms and databases for accuracy and catch errors before they affect clearance timelines.
Strong written and verbal communication skills and the ability to explain security requirements clearly to employees at all levels.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint), and comfort learning security software and government portals.
Ability to handle sensitive personnel information discreetly and with strict confidentiality.
Organized, methodical work style and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.
High school diploma or GED required; substantial direct personnel security experience may substitute for degree requirements at hiring management’s discretion.
Must be a U.S. person as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.15 or otherwise eligible for a federally issued export control license.

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting IC customers, such as DNI-sponsored positions or SCI program offices, in addition to DCSA/DoD programs.
Familiarity with Envoy, DISS, SIMS, Scattered Castles, or other IC-specific security management systems.
Experience with the Insider Threat program, continuous evaluation (CE) processes, or adjudicative criteria under the 13 Adjudicative Guidelines.
DCSA or industry-recognized personnel security certification, such as SPeD PSP, NCMS certification, or equivalent.
Experience in a multi-customer environment supporting collateral and SCI programs concurrently.
Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Security Management, Criminal Justice, or Business Administration.
Associate’s degree with equivalent relevant experience.
Completion of the CDSE Personnel Security Adjudicative Guidelines course or equivalent DCSA/IC training.

Responsibilities

Track personnel security investigations in Government (NBIS) and corporate databases.
Process incoming and outgoing visit access requests, visit authorization letters (VALs), and courier authorizations through Government and corporate databases.
Assist with Collateral and SCI access briefings and debriefings in coordination with the Facility Security Officer and Contractor Special Security Officer.
Maintain accurate and current personnel security files, in paper and electronic form, in compliance with CFR 32, NISPOM, ICD 704, and customer-specific directives.
Audit security databases for data integrity, expiring clearances, and derogatory information requiring supervisor review.
Track continuous evaluation (CE) alerts and notifications in DISS, document actions taken, and escalate issues according to established procedures.
Ensure proper handling, storage, and disposition of classified information.
Serve as a point of contact for cleared employees regarding badging, clearance status, reporting requirements, and foreign travel notifications.
Brief new hires and contractors on personnel security obligations, self-reporting requirements, and Insider Threat awareness.
Coordinate with DCSA, DoD components, local government agencies, and IC agencies to resolve issues.
Respond to inquiries from Program Managers, HR, Engineering, and Contracts about clearance eligibility and processing timelines.
Prepare routine reports, metrics, and status updates on clearance-processing timelines and backlogs for leadership review.
Support security program documentation, including updates to Standard Practice Procedures (SPPs) and program-specific security plans.
Assist with preparation for DCSA facility inspections and program reviews, ensuring records are organized and readily available.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Director of Security.