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Senior Physical Security Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

M.C. Dean, Inc

Senior Physical Security Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$131K - $180K/yr

We are seeking a Sr. Physical Security Engineer to join our Security and Electronic Systems (SES) business Unit. As part of ( SES ) Strategic Business Unit you will be part of a team that designs ...

Faith Group, LLC

Sr. Physical Security Consultant

$140K - $180K/yr

We are a recognized leader in systems engineering, consulting, and professional services for ... The Senior Physical Security Consultant is a subject matter expert responsible for advising clients ...

Link Technologies

Physical Security SME

Denver, CO

... senior Physical Security SME to provide technical leadership for security consulting engagements ... Interface with owners, architects, and engineering teams. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree ...

Link Technologies

Physical Security SME

Denver, CO · On-site

... senior Physical Security SME to provide technical leadership for security consulting engagements ... Interface with owners, architects, and engineering teams. Required Qualifications * Bachelor ...

cookboardman

Physical Security Engineer

Wilmington, DE · On-site

Physical Security Engineer will be responsible for high level configuration and integration of access control and IP/analog surveillance systems. They will also have strong knowledge of all Physical ...

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Senior Physical Security Engineer information

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$73.5K

$137.1K

$186.5K

How much do senior physical security engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for senior physical security engineer in the United States is $137,131.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $114,500.00 and $157,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineer makes $500,000 a year?

Senior Physical Security Engineers with extensive experience, specialized skills in security systems, and certifications such as CISSP can earn salaries approaching or exceeding $500,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Compensation varies based on location, company size, and individual expertise.

What does a physical security engineer do?

A physical security engineer designs, implements, and maintains security systems to protect facilities, assets, and personnel. They evaluate vulnerabilities, install access controls, surveillance systems, and alarm systems, and often hold certifications like CPP or PSP. Their work involves assessing risks, ensuring compliance, and integrating security technologies within physical environments.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Senior Physical Security Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Senior Physical Security Engineer, you need expertise in security system design, risk assessment, and a strong technical background, often supported by a relevant engineering degree and industry certifications like PSP (Physical Security Professional). Familiarity with security management systems, access control, video surveillance technologies, and CAD software is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, project management, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with stakeholders and address complex security challenges. These skills are crucial for designing and implementing robust security solutions that protect assets and ensure organizational safety.

What are the primary challenges a Senior Physical Security Engineer faces when implementing security solutions across multiple sites?

A major challenge for Senior Physical Security Engineers is ensuring consistency and integration of security systems across various locations, each with its own layout, local regulations, and operational needs. They must coordinate closely with local teams, IT departments, and facility managers to tailor solutions that meet corporate standards while addressing site-specific risks. Balancing the latest security technology with legacy infrastructure and managing vendor relationships are also common hurdles. This requires strong project management skills and the ability to communicate technical requirements to diverse stakeholders.

What is the difference between Senior Physical Security Engineer vs Physical Security Specialist?

AspectSenior Physical Security EngineerPhysical Security Specialist
CredentialsSecurity certifications (CSP, CPP), engineering backgroundSecurity certifications, technical knowledge
Work EnvironmentDesign, implementation, and oversight of security systemsMonitoring, assessing, and maintaining security protocols
Employer & Industry UsageTech, corporate, government sectorsFacilities, corporate, government sectors
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding senior roles and responsibilitiesRole specifics and operational duties

The main difference is that a Senior Physical Security Engineer focuses on designing and implementing security systems, often with a leadership component, while a Physical Security Specialist handles day-to-day security operations and assessments. Both roles require relevant certifications and work in similar environments, but their responsibilities differ in scope and seniority.

What does a Senior Physical Security Engineer do?

A Senior Physical Security Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, and managing security systems that protect an organization's physical assets, personnel, and facilities. Their duties often include conducting risk assessments, developing security protocols, and overseeing the installation and maintenance of systems such as access control, CCTV, intrusion detection, and alarm systems. They work closely with other security professionals and stakeholders to ensure that security measures are effective and compliant with relevant regulations. Additionally, they may lead teams, manage projects, and provide expert guidance on the latest security technologies and best practices.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior Physical Security Engineers can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, specialized skills in security systems, and certifications like CISSP or CISM. High salaries are often found in large organizations, government agencies, or cybersecurity firms where security expertise is critical.

Can you make 300k in cyber security?

Senior Physical Security Engineers and cybersecurity professionals with extensive experience, specialized skills, and certifications such as CISSP or CISM can potentially earn salaries around or above $300,000 annually, especially in high-demand industries or senior leadership roles. Salary levels depend on factors like location, company size, and individual expertise, with some roles offering bonuses and stock options that contribute to total compensation.
More about Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Senior Physical Security Engineer job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Physical Security Engineer jobs? The most popular types of Physical Security Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs are:
Senior Physical Security Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Senior Physical Security Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $137,131 per year, or $65.9 per hour.

Senior Physical Security Engineer

Kirkland & Ellis LLP.

Chicago, IL • On-site

$100K - $138K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 28 days ago

Job description

About Kirkland & Ellis
At Kirkland & Ellis, we don't just meet the standard for legal excellence - we set it. Our culture is built on teamwork, ingenuity and an unwavering commitment to continuous growth. We tackle the most sophisticated legal challenges with bold ideas and innovative solutions, powered by the exceptional experience and ambition of our 7,000+ people, including 4,000+ attorneys, across 24 offices worldwide. Our dedicated professionals share our lawyers' commitment to excellence and show up each day to do meaningful work that helps drive global business, investment and innovation forward.
What You'll Do
The Senior Physical Security Engineer is responsible for the technical implementation, configuration, testing, and ongoing support of integrated physical security systems across multiple office locations. This role supports access control, video surveillance, visitor management systems, and related security technologies, ensuring systems are reliable, secure, and aligned with firmwide standards.
Working closely with Physical Security Managers, IT, Operations, Real Estate teams, and third-party vendors, the Sr. Physical Security Engineer plays a key role in office expansion projects, system upgrades, and day-to-day technical support of security infrastructure.
This role supports a global environment and may occasionally require flexible hours to coordinate with offices in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Key Responsibilities
  • Configure, program, test, and commission physical security hardware and software systems
  • Provide technical support and troubleshooting for access control, video surveillance, and related security systems
  • Serve as a technical resource and escalation point for local Physical Security Managers, IT, and Operations teams
  • Support office buildouts and expansion projects by attending project meetings, reviewing drawings, and coordinating with vendors, integrators, and consultants
  • Partner with internal and external teams during system installations, upgrades, and maintenance activities
  • Proactively maintain security systems by supporting software updates, coordinating hardware repairs or replacements, and scheduling service activities
  • Ensure compliance with established security standards and assist with maintaining system documentation, configurations, as-built drawings, and equipment inventories
  • Support new physical security initiatives and projects as assigned

What You'll Bring
  • Bachelor's degree in Security, Information Technology, or a related field or
  • Minimum of 4 years of equivalent hands-on experience supporting physical security systems in a corporate environment

Technical Skills
  • Strong understanding of physical security systems and supporting IT infrastructure
  • Hands-on experience with system configuration, testing, troubleshooting, and maintenance
  • Experience with access control and video surveillance platforms (Software House / Johnson Controls preferred)
  • Basic troubleshooting experience in Windows Server environments, including reviewing application logs and identifying network-related issues
  • Familiarity with service ticketing systems (ServiceNow or similar)
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel)
  • Experience editing PDF documents using tools such as Adobe Acrobat or Bluebeam Revu

Preferred Certifications
  • Software House CCURE 9000 Advanced Integrator Certification
  • Genetec Security Center Enterprise Technical Certification (or similar)

Skills & Competencies
  • Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities
  • Proven problem-solving

Compensation
The base salary range below represents the low and high end of the salary range for this position in Chicago. This range may differ based on your geographic location and cost of living considerations. At Kirkland & Ellis, we consider compensation more than just a base salary. We offer an exceptional range of flexible benefits including comprehensive healthcare, paid time off, and retirement. We also offer personal support and tailored learning and development opportunities all designed to help you realize your full potential both in life and at work.
Compensation Range:
Chicago: $100,000 - $138,000
How to Apply
Thank you for your interest in Kirkland & Ellis LLP. To complete an application and submit your resume, please click "Apply Now."
Don't meet every job requirement? That's okay! If you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't perfectly fit every qualification, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may be just the right person for this role or others at Kirkland.
Equal Employment Opportunity
All employment decisions, including the recruiting, hiring, placement, training availability, promotion, compensation, evaluation, disciplinary actions, and termination of employment (if necessary) are made without regard to the employee's race, color, creed, religion, sex, pregnancy or childbirth, personal appearance, family responsibilities, sexual orientation or preference, gender identity, political affiliation, source of income, place of residence, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military veteran status, unfavorable discharge from military service, physical or mental disability, or on any other basis prohibited by applicable law. #LI-Remote #LI-MK1

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