Security Systems Specialist

Job Category: Academic Staff

Employment Type: Regular

Job Profile: Security Systems Specialist

Job Summary:

The University of Wisconsin - Madison Police Department (UWPD) is hiring Security Systems Specialists. The Security Systems Specialist provides technical administration, maintenance, and support for the campus access control and video security systems. This position functions as a shared resource between two operational areas responsible for critical security technologies. While assigned a primary supervisor and focus area—either Access Control Technologies or Video/Camera Technologies—the incumbent is expected to develop and maintain proficiency in both disciplines and serve as a backup resource for the complementary area. This cross-functional role helps ensure operational continuity, system reliability, and consistent service delivery across campus security systems. Success in this position requires strong technical expertise, effective communication skills, collaboration, and the ability to work independently in support of the institution's safety and security objectives.

This position works closely with personnel in both the Access Control and Video/Camera Technology areas to support, maintain, and enhance enterprise security systems. The Security Systems Specialist reports to an assigned supervisor within their primary area of responsibility while maintaining a collaborative partnership with the secondary area to provide cross-training, backup coverage, shared technical expertise, and coordinated support for campus security infrastructure.

Work Schedule: This position is typically scheduled Monday through Friday during standard business hours. The role also requires participation in a rotating on-call schedule and will require occasional work outside normal business hours, including evenings, weekends, and special events, as operational needs dictate. This is an onsite position that requires work to be performed in person at a designated campus location.

UW-Madison Police Department employees will support the department's vision and mission by operating in a fair, unbiased manner which respects the rights, safety and dignity of all individuals. As a department employee, your everyday actions will be guided by the department's values and be grounded in the highest ethical and professional standards. UW-Madison Police Department employees are expected to take an active role in creating and maintaining a positive, welcoming and inclusive work environment. Employees will assist or participate on an as-needed basis with the department's recruiting and hiring efforts and the onboarding of new employees in the work unit. Department employees are expected to work in partnership with the campus and area communities to provide leadership in solving community problems, preventing crime and providing a safe environment to fulfill the mission of the University.

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Identifies and recommends alternative technology solutions to stakeholders to meet user needs
• Designs, installs, troubleshoots, and services complex electronic control systems and locks to meet customer specifications
• Responds to service requests through various communication mediums
• Analyzes and interprets complex hardware, door schedules and lock patterns, and updates information based on user requests and needs
• Distributes security devices, tracks inventory, and updates associated records
• Required to work special events or assignments as designated by the Department

Department: UW-Madison Police Department

Compensation: Salary: $60,000 - $85,000 (Depending on Qualifications)

Salary Disclaimer: Compensation for this position will be commensurate with qualifications, experience, and demonstrated expertise. The upper end of the salary range is typically reserved for candidates who bring significant, directly relevant experience and who demonstrate exceptional depth and breadth of knowledge, sustained high-level performance, and specialized skills that add substantial value to the University. Candidates considered at this level are expected to serve as subject-matter experts, mentors, and key resources within their area, reflecting a premium alignment with current market benchmarks.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department is committed to attracting, retaining, and rewarding a highly qualified workforce by supporting competitive and equitable compensation practices through a job framework, salary structure, and clear and flexible salary administrative guidelines.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department participates in the State of Wisconsin excellent benefit program that includes the following: Comprehensive health insurance and prescription coverage, Supplemental dental and vision insurance, Life insurance options, Accident coverage, Income continuation insurance (short and long term disability), Flexible Spending & Health Savings Accounts, Coverage under the Wisconsin Retirement System (employer matching), 403(b) and 457(b) Supplemental Retirement Accounts, Education Tuition Reimbursement, Paid Trainings. Generous paid leave: Generous paid vacation benefits, Nine paid legal holidays, Paid personal holidays, Paid sick leave, 6 weeks Paid Parental Leave (after 6 months of employment). Other Incentives: On duty paid workouts, Department provided physical therapy, Fitness room, Financial and wellness workshops, Group fitness activities.

Required Qualifications:

• Strong written and oral communications skills.
• Ability to problem solve technical issues.
• General computer skills: proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Strong organizational skills and ability to meet deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Good interpersonal communications skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to work flexible hours to be on call and staff special events as needed.
• This position requires a valid Driver’s License with a minimum of 2 years driving experience and also meets UW Risk Management Standards.
• Candidates must pass the initial application screening, all steps of the hiring process, an extensive background investigation including past employment, reference checks, social media check, credit history, drug screen and medical and psychological examination prior to beginning employment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working on multiple levels of access control or security camera systems and resolving hardware or software issues, compatibility issues, and/or system integration or equivalent certificate or degree may be considered in lieu of experience.
• Experience administering a security camera system and/or access control system.
• Experience troubleshooting hardware and/or software issues.
• Knowledge of video management systems, access control systems, network infrastructure, low-voltage wiring and cabling and/or use of artificial intelligence systems used in security systems.
• Ability to read blueprints, schematics, wiring diagrams, and/or technical manuals.
• Strong documentation and reporting skills.

Education: H.S. Diploma required.

How to Apply:

Please click on the "Apply" button to start the application process. As part of the application process, you will be required to upload both your cover letter and resume into Workday.

Eligible candidates may participate in the following steps (dates are subject to change): Phone Screen (week of August 24th), Initial Interview (September 9th & 11th), and Final Interview (September 21st & 22nd). The tentative start date is set for November 2026.