Building Security Services Specialist III

Building Security Services Specialist III

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.

Key Duties and 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.

About the Department

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.

Example of Duties

• 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.

Level Guidelines

• Senior-level position possessing high-level professional and/or technical skills working independently under minimal supervision to support ISU's mission and department or work unit goals.
• Applies senior-level professional knowledge and expertise to work requiring greater latitude.
• Solves moderately complex problems and regularly exercises judgment to determine appropriate action.
• Regularly exercises judgment to resolve problems and determine appropriate action on a broad set of issue and problems. May provide recommendations regarding problems/issues outside the bounds of defined procedures and practices.
• Responds to complicated inquiries, provides training, and provides direction to lower-level staff.
• May provide supervision for one to two other staff (i.e., leads a small work team).
• May lead projects for which well-defined practices and procedures may not exist.
• Provides guidance to students.

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.

Appointment Type: Regular

Number of Months Employed Per Year: 12 Month Work Period

Time Type: Full time

Pay Grade: PS808

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please click on "Apply" and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: 1) Resume/Curriculum Vitae 2) Letter of Application/Cover Letter If you have questions regarding this application process, please email employment@iastate.edu or call 515-294-4800 or Toll Free: 1-877-477-7485. Why Choose ISU? Iowa State Employees enjoy comprehensive health and work-life benefits, including medical and dental; as well as: 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