Deputy Director, Physical Security and Business Operations.

Smithsonian Institution; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

The Smithsonian Institution seeks a senior executive to lead the Physical Security Program across SI. You will direct policies, systems, and operations for alarms, video, access control, and anti-terrorism measures to protect national collections, visitors, and staff.

Responsibilities include overseeing security risk management, budgeting for OPS, and coordinating with federal agencies. This role requires strong leadership, strategic vision, and deep knowledge of federal security guidelines.

Qualifications

• A degree in an applicable field or equivalent experience.
• One year of specialized experience at or equivalent to GS-15 level.
• Expert knowledge of security concepts, practices and federal guidelines.
• Ability to lead a multi-disciplinary workforce and foster teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Directs planning and coordination of SI-wide physical security programs and policies.
• Oversees design, testing, and commissioning standards for security systems.
• Directs security risk management activities, risk assessments, and mitigation planning.
• Manages OPS budget and inter-agency coordination for protection services.

Skills

Leadership

Security program management

Interagency coordination

Budget and finance oversight

Risk assessment

Education

Bachelor's degree in an applicable field

Tools

CCTV systems

Access control systems

X-ray/screening tech

Metal detectors/related tech

Job description

Physical Security Program

Provides executive direction and leadership to the Smithsonian Institution (SI) wide physical security program which includes, but is not limited to, the SI Security Modernization and Anti‑terrorism Programs, the Office of Protection Service (OPS) Capital Improvement Program, and the OPS Maintenance Program. Directs the planning, organizing, and coordinating activities of the SI Physical Security Program; and is responsible for the development and implementation of integrated electronic security systems which include alarms, video, access control, intercoms, locks, keys, cards, barrier systems, radio systems used throughout security operations; other electronic security systems used by the Smithsonian, but operated externally; large scale physical barrier systems used throughout the Smithsonian, as well as any other technical systems (e.g., magnetometers, x-rays, hand held metal detectors, etc.) utilized by the security force to secure and protect the National Collections, visitors and staff; and other anti‑terrorism measures such as blast resistance and hardening and Chemical/Biological/Radiological attack mitigation. Develops, Reviews, and maintains all SI and OPS policies and procedures associated with the physical security requirements of SI. Policies may include Smithsonian‑wide directives. Develops, reviews, and maintains all security related design, construction, testing, acceptance, and commissioning standards for SI. Standards are consistent with the level of risk to the SI as well as Federal guidelines.

Duties

Physical Security Program

Provides executive direction and leadership to the Smithsonian Institution (SI) wide physical security program which includes, but is not limited to, the SI Security Modernization and Anti‑terrorism Programs, the Office of Protection Service (OPS) Capital Improvement Program, and the OPS Maintenance Program. Directs the planning, organizing, and coordinating activities of the SI Physical Security Program; and is responsible for the development and implementation of integrated electronic security systems which include alarms, video, access control, intercoms, locks, keys, cards, barrier systems, radio systems used throughout security operations; other electronic security systems used by the Smithsonian, but operated externally; large scale physical barrier systems used throughout the Smithsonian, as well as any other technical systems (e.g., magnetometers, x-rays, hand held metal detectors, etc.) utilized by the security force to secure and protect the National Collections, visitors and staff; and other anti‑terrorism measures such as blast resistance and hardening and Chemical/Biological/Radiological attack mitigation. Develops, Reviews, and maintains all SI and OPS policies and procedures associated with the physical security requirements of SI. Policies may include Smithsonian‑wide directives. Develops, reviews, and maintains all security related design, construction, testing, acceptance, and commissioning standards for SI. Standards are consistent with the level of risk to the SI as well as Federal guidelines.

Security Risk Management Program

Directs the planning, organizing, and coordinating activities associated with the SI wide Security Risk Management Program. Plans, schedules and verifies the completion of all risk assessments of SI facilities and assets. Maintains and updates assessments risk data based on Federal requirements and best practices. Identifies and recommends operational mitigation measures based on assessment results. Identifies and prioritizes projects and efforts that will be included in the SI security modernization, anti‑terrorism, and multi‑hazard risk mitigation programs. Briefs SI Secretary, Under Secretaries, other SI leadership, and reviewing agencies/offices on assessment results and program status. Undertakes a variety of representational and liaison duties. Participates and/or represents the Institution at high‑level policy meetings and conferences, making significant contributions on matters pertaining to protection services programs and activities. Represents SI on protection services programs and activities before the Interagency Security Committee and other jurisdictional and professional societies and associations.

OPS Business Operations

Serves as the principal advisor to the OPS Director on all aspects of the OPS budget. Works closely with Smithsonian Facilities’ Finance and Administrative (FAM) office to defend and obtain approval for budget increases. Monitors frequently changing budget developments and negotiates with Smithsonian Facilities’ FAM, the Office of Planning Management and Budget, Office of the Chief Financial Officer, Office of Contracting, and other high‑level SI officials for needed adjustments. In concert with the OPS Director, develops goals and long‑range plans for OPS involving allocation of resources, including personnel, funds, and space. Manages the development of policies and procedures relating to OPS function and activities.

Information Technology

Overall responsibility and provides executive leadership to ensure effective operation of all IT functions in conjunction with the business and operational objectives of OPS. Plans, coordinates, directs, and designs IT‑related activities for OPS, as well as providing administrative direction and support for daily operations. Liaisons with Smithsonian Facilities and the Office of the Chief Information Officer decision-makers to identify, recommend, develop, implement, and support cost effective technology solutions for all aspects of the organization.

Requirements

Conditions of employment

• Pass Pre‑Employment Background Investigation


• May need to complete a Probationary Period


• Maintain a Bank Account for Direct Deposit/Electronic Transfer


• Males born after 12/31/59 must be registered with Selective Service

Qualifications

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:

Applicants must clearly demonstrate the necessary level of managerial and leadership skills and competence to perform successfully in this position. This includes a degree in an applicable subject matter field, or a combination of education and appropriate experience that provides knowledge comparable to that normally acquired through successful completion of a four‑year course of study in an applicable subject matter field.

Specialized Experience

In addition, applicants must have one year of specialized experience at or equivalent to the GS‑15 level. Specialized experience is defined as the demonstrated leadership skills in managing physical security programs, identify and security risk management programs, as well as facilitating inter‑organizational cooperation, effectively managing fiscal and human resources functions for a complex, multi‑facility organization.

The applications that meet the basic qualifications will be evaluated further against the following criteria:

• Demonstrated experience in managing physical security programs, identify and security risk management programs. This should include experience in formulating and implementing strategic priorities, goal setting, establishing metrics and reporting protocols.


• Expert knowledge of security and physical security related concepts, practices and procedures as well as Federal security guidelines, requirements and regulations as they relate to cultural property protection, facility security, anti‑terrorism risk mitigation, risk assessment methodologies, management, and mitigation best practices, procedures, and policies.


• Expert knowledge of construction practices involving electrical and mechanical work, state‑of‑the‑art security technologies in areas of electronic security systems, computerized security systems, access control systems, CCTV, communication systems, security monitoring and control systems, blast hardening and mitigation, anti‑ram vehicle barriers, X‑ray and screening detection technology, and Chemical/Biological/Radiological attack prevention and mitigation.


• Skill in building cooperative relationships between colleagues and organizations within your oversight, and with stakeholders inside and outside the Institution. This includes explaining positions/solutions, both orally and in writing, and gaining acceptance by museum and/or research facility colleagues and customers/managers at all levels.


• Skill in leading, supervising, and managing a multi‑disciplined and talented workforce, including fostering teamwork and high morale as well as developing, attracting, retaining and motivating employees.

SUPERVISORY CONTROLS

The Director, Office of Protection Services, provides administrative direction in terms of broad guidance on overall policy, program objectives, and delegated authority. Within this framework, the incumbent, in turn, independently plans and carries out assigned responsibilities as the recognized authority for physical security, risk management, and business operations. Major policy questions or controversial issues are discussed with the Director for decision or guidance. The incumbent keeps the Director informed of all significant program activities and potential problems. Work performance is appraised in terms of overall effectiveness in achieving program objectives.

EEO

The Smithsonian Institution does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non merit factor.

REASONABLE ACCOMMODATION

The Smithsonian provides reasonable accommodation to applicants with disabilities. If you need an accommodation for any part of the application and hiring process, please notify the contact person listed in this announcement. The decision on granting a reasonable accommodation will be made on a case‑by‑case basis.

SECURITY

This position has been reviewed to determine the level of POSITION SENSITIVITY. Based on the nature of the work, the position has been determined to be Non‑Critical Sensitive/HIGH RISK. This designation will require (1) a pre‑employment Security Agency Check (SAC) for the prospective incumbent; and (2) a subsequent comprehensive background investigation and secret security clearance adjudication in order to continue in the position.

RELOCATION

Relocation expenses may be paid at the discretion of the Smithsonian.

Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.

A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding.

The Smithsonian offers a comprehensive benefits program for both Federal and Trust employees. See www.sihr.si.edu for details. We also offer a rich program of services and opportunities to balance and enhance your work life. They include: Smithsonian Early Enrichment Center (an accredited educational program for children between the ages of 3 months to 6 years), transportation benefits, professional interest groups, employee advocacy groups, special events such as brown bag lunches, an annual picnic on the Mall, an annual holiday party, free lectures, behind‑the‑scenes tours and employee discounts at our theaters, shops and after hours events. These and other programs have made the Smithsonian one of the top places to work in the government.

Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full‑time, part‑time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.