Security Program Manager Jobs in Joliet, IL (NOW HIRING)

Summary of Job

The Site Security “Lead” is responsible for the tactical execution of enterprise security risk management, physical security, personnel security, supply chain security, and investigations at Element Food Solutions manufacturing and distribution facility. This individual contributor role reports directly to the Director of Security and ensures the effective and efficient operation of the site security & resilience program.

Essential Functions and ResponsibilitiesSecurity Risk Management

• Conduct regular security audits and risk assessments to identify vulnerabilities and security gaps at the facility.
• Identify, evaluate, and document security risks to the organization and develop mitigation strategies in collaboration with Corporate Security leadership.
• Implement and monitor comprehensive security policies and procedures to ensure consistent application across all site operations.
• Support the Corporate Security Director in the development and management of the site security program.
• Prepare and present detailed reports, metrics, and presentations related to security program performance and risk posture.

Physical Security

• Ensure comprehensive protection of facilities against intrusion, fire hazards, theft, and vandalism through implementation of layered security controls.
• Oversee and manage physical security systems including CCTV, access control, intrusion detection, and related equipment, ensuring proper functionality and maintenance.
• Coordinate access control administration including badge issuance, visitor management, contractor credentialing, and key control programs.
• Conduct regular security inspections and ensure compliance with corporate security standards and industry’s best practices.

Personnel Security

• Coordinate security awareness training programs for all site employees and conduct new hire security orientations.

Supply Chain Security

• Ensure compliance with C-TPAT, OEA, and other relevant supply chain security standards and regulations.
• Implement and maintain security measures to protect the supply chain from internal and external threats including theft, tampering, and contamination.
• Coordinate with Operations, Logistics, Quality, and other departments to ensure comprehensive security of finished products and raw materials throughout the manufacturing and distribution process.
• Monitor and report on key supply chain security metrics including shipping/export performance and supply chain deviations.

Investigations and Incident Response

• Lead and support investigations into security incidents, policy violations, and vulnerabilities, ensuring thorough documentation and appropriate resolution.
• Respond to security incidents and emergencies, serving as primary site point of contact for law enforcement and emergency services.
• Coordinate emergency response activities and security events, ensuring proper escalation and communication to Corporate Security and site leadership.
• Document and report all security events, incidents, and investigations using standardized reporting tools and protocols.
• Support workplace violence prevention efforts and participate in threat assessment activities as needed.

Brand Protection

• Implement measures to protect company intellectual property and safeguard brand reputation.
• Monitor traditional media and social media channels for potential threats to the brand, coordinating with Corporate Security on response strategies.
• Support corporate investigations related to counterfeiting, product diversion, or other brand protection concerns.

Stakeholder Communication and Collaboration

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with site leadership, operations, HR, EHS, quality, and other key departments.
• Represent Corporate Security in site meetings and serve as subject matter resource for security-related questions and initiatives.
• Communicate security program updates, requirements, and incident information clearly and professionally to diverse audiences.
• Partner with external stakeholders including security vendors, law enforcement, regulatory agencies, and industry peers.

Education and Qualifications

Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Criminal Justice, Emergency Management, or related field preferred. Equivalent combination of education and relevant work experience will be considered.

Experience: 1-3 years of professional experience in operations, logistics, facilities management, quality, or related field. Security experience is not required but is a plus. Demonstrated ability to learn technical systems and complex processes quickly.

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Good verbal and written communication skills with demonstrated ability to interact effectively with all organizational levels, from frontline employees to executive leadership.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build collaborative relationships across departments and with external partners including vendors and law enforcement.
• Proven project management and organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously.
• Demonstrated analytical and problem-solving abilities with sound judgment in ambiguous or high-pressure situations.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and demonstrated ability to learn security-specific software platforms and physical security systems.
• High degree of flexibility and availability, including willingness to respond to after-hours emergencies and adjust schedule as operational needs require.
• Strong work ethics demonstrated commitment to continuous learning, professional development, and adaptability to evolving security requirements.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.

Working Conditions

• Ability to conduct comprehensive facility walk-throughs and security inspections requiring extended periods of standing and walking in manufacturing, warehouse, and distribution environments.
• Occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling up to 25 pounds.
• Work in both climate-controlled office environments and non-climate-controlled warehouse/production areas with exposure to varying temperatures.
• Ability to respond to emergency situations which may require rapid movement throughout the facility.
• Standard business hours Monday-Friday with significant flexibility required for operational and emergency response needs.
• Must be available for after-hours emergency response, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Food Safety Responsibilities

• Follow all relevant food safety rules including SQF, GMPs, and Food Defense.
• Report any observed food safety violations to Management.

Core Benefits

• Basic Life Insurance
• Short Term Disability
• Long Term Disability
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Leave

Voluntary Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Pet Insurance
• 401 k (matching)
• Accident
• Critical Illness
• Wellness
• Gym membership