Physical Security Specialist full_time

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

Security and Safety provides quality leadership, services and solutions to safeguard people and the environment, secure and protect company information and assets as well as enhance operational efficiency for the Corporation. The Physical Security Specialist is responsible for ensuring successful security and safety programs are in place by implementing programs for protecting classified and unclassified sensitive information. This position performs specialized duties in one or more security disciplines.

Work Model

This is a full-time position based in El Segundo, CA, which requires 100% onsite work.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Collaborates with facilities personnel, contractors, and architects to ensure security issues are addressed correctly during design and construction.
• Provides technical and administrative support for intrusion detection system alarms and security systems. Establishes a process for alarm response and repair. Compiles system security plans in accordance with government regulations. Conducts system audits and reviews.
• Candidate must have a background in principles, concepts, practices, and standards related to SCI and Special Program Security, knowledge and practical application of ICD/ICS 705 series, National Industrial Security Program Operating Manual (NISPOM), and other applicable security directives and Executive Orders
• Reviews and develops appropriate physical, access, policies, and procedures to support operations.
• Assists with conducting physical security surveys, and facility threat assessments to determine if facilities meet Government and Industry requirements. Helps prepare written reports identifying recommendations for correction.
• Conducts physical security surveys, and facility threat assessments to determine if facilities meet Government and Industry requirements. Prepares written reports identifying recommendations for correction
• Conduct semi-annual alarm testing.
• Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed.
• Maintains secure facility electronic records.
• Support other security disciplines as needed.

What You Need to be Successful

Minimum Requirements for Level III:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Four (4) or more years of relevant experience with physical security
• Experience in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams
• Knowledge of physical security concepts and practices to include intrusion prevention and detection, closed-circuit television, and access control.
• Must be willing and able to provide an after-hours response to alarm situations if necessary.
• Effective interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations.
• Must have current TS/SSBI clearance, which is issued by the US government. U.S citizenship is required.

Minimum Requirements for Level IV:

• Bachelor’s degree
• Eight (8) or more years of relevant experience with physical security
• Experience in Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams
• Knowledge of physical security concepts and practices to include intrusion prevention and detection, closed-circuit television, and access control
• Must be willing and able to provide an after-hours response to alarm situations if necessary
• Effective interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations.

How You Can Stand Out

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these (Level III):

• Five or more years of relevant experience with physical security and a bachelor’s degree
• Ability to prepare and/or review Fixed Facility and TEMPEST checklists and other ICD 705 related documents.
• Attention to detail, ability to work independently with minimal supervision and adapt to changes in priorities.
• Proficiency in gathering information from various sources, both electronic and written to support the development of briefing materials and other projects.
• Ability to understand and interpret building design/floor plans to determine the consistency of contractual security requirements.

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these (Level IV):

• Ten or more years of relevant experience with physical security and a bachelor’s degree
• Ability to prepare and/or review Fixed Facility and TEMPEST checklists and other ICD 705 related documents.
• Attention to detail, ability to work independently with minimal supervision and adapt to changes in priorities.
• Proficiency in gathering information from various sources, both electronic and written to support the development of briefing materials and other projects.
• Ability to understand and interpret building design/floor plans to determine the consistency of contractual security requirements.
• Certifications in Physical Security or other similar security disciplines

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. 

(Min – Mid – Max)

$31.74 – $42.37 – $53.00

Pay Basis: Hourly

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.