Director Access Control Engineer Jobs in Chicago, IL

The Director of Security oversees and manages all safety and security operations across Bright Star CDC’s facilities — including a 24-hour homeless shelter, community resource centers, and administrative offices. This position is responsible for ensuring the protection of staff, clients, and property while maintaining compliance with Illinois state laws governing private security personnel. The Director develops and implements comprehensive safety protocols, supervises security personnel, and fosters a secure, trauma-informed environment that supports Bright Star CDC’s mission to strengthen and serve the community.

Key Roles and Responsibilities

L

eadership & Supervision

• Manage all security operations across multiple facilities, ensuring 24/7 coverage where required.
• Recruit, train, schedule, and supervise all security officers and contracted security personnel.
• Develop and enforce standard operating procedures and post orders for each facility.
• Conduct regular staff evaluations and lead ongoing professional development in crisis management and de-escalation techniques.

Compliance & Safety Oversight

• Ensure full compliance with the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) requirements for all security personnel under the Private Detective, Private Alarm, Private Security, Fingerprint Vendor, and Locksmith Act of 2004 (225 ILCS 447).
• Verify that all security officers hold a valid Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) and have completed the required 20-hour basic security training approved by the IDFPR.
• Maintain accurate and confidential records of all officer certifications, training documentation, and background checks.
• Implement and oversee safety and emergency preparedness protocols, including fire evacuation, medical response, and shelter-in-place procedures.

Incident & Risk Management

• Respond to and manage all major incidents, including emergencies, disturbances, or breaches of safety.
• Conduct internal investigations and prepare incident reports for review by the Executive Director.
• Analyze trends in incident data and implement preventive measures.
• Coordinate with law enforcement and emergency responders as necessary.

Policy Development & Coordination

• Develop and update policies related to security, access control, and client safety.
• Collaborate with program and facility directors to ensure consistency in safety procedures across all locations.
• Participate in leadership meetings to advise on safety and security mplications of operations and programming.

Community Engagement & Training

• Promote a professional, empathetic, and trauma-informed approach to safety within Bright Star CDC facilities.
• Provide training to staff and volunteers on safety awareness, de-escalation, and emergency procedures.
• Foster positive relationships with clients and community members to enhance trust and cooperation.

Benefits

Bright Star CDC offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and professional development support.

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Health savings account
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person

Qualifications, Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Safety, or a related field preferred; equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum of five (5) years of progressive experience in security, law enforcement, or emergency management, including supervisory responsibilities.
• Experience in community-based, residential, or social service environments strongly preferred.

Licensing & State Requirements (Illinois)

• Must hold or be eligible to obtain a Permanent Employee Registration card (PERC) through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR).
• Must complete the 20-hour Basic Security Officer Training program approved by the IDFPR.
• Must pass a criminal background check and fingerprinting in accordance with Illinois law.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred (or obtained within 60 days of hire).
• Valid Illinois Driver’s License and reliable transportation required.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and crisis management abilities.
• Excellent communication, documentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of Illinois security laws, OSHA safety standards, and emergency response procedures.
• Experience with surveillance, access control, and alarm systems.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a mission-driven, trauma-informed environment.

Working Conditions

• On-call availability required for emergencies, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Work involves both administrative duties and site visits across multiple Chicago-area facilities.