Deputy Director, Physical Security and Business Operations

Smithsonian Institution; Washington (District of Columbia); On-site; USD 152,000 - 228,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Transportation benefits

employee discounts

employee advocacy groups

Job summary

The Smithsonian Institution seeks a Deputy Director for Physical Security and Business Operations to serve as principal advisor on security programs, identity management, and risk mitigation. Located in Washington, DC, this role directs SI-wide security operations, policy development, and liaison activities with OPS and SI leadership.

Responsibilities include leadership of physical security systems, security risk management, and IT-related security operations, with emphasis on safeguarding the

Responsibilities

• Provides executive direction and leadership to the Smithsonian-wide physical security program.
• Directs planning and coordination of the SI Physical Security Program and related systems.
• Develops and maintains security policies, standards, and testing/acceptance criteria.
• Leads risk management efforts, assesses facilities, and communicates status to SI leadership.
• Oversees OPS budget and major IT/security initiatives in collaboration with SI departments.

Job description

Deputy Director, Physical Security and Business Operations

• Department: Other Agencies and Independent Organizations
• Location: Washington, District of Columbia

This position is located in the Smithsonian's Office of Protection Services (OPS) and serves as principal advisor to the OPS Director, OPS unit directors, and the Deputy Director, Smithsonian Facilities on all aspects of Smithsonian-wide physical security programs, identity management, security risk management, and other related security programs.

Key Responsibilities

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.

Serves as the OPS liaison between the Smithsonian's Office of Planning, Design and Construction (OPDC) ensuring the implementation of OPS policies, procedures and security programs. 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.

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.

• 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
• employee discounts at our theaters
• shops
• after hours events

These and other programs have made the Smithsonian one of the top places to work in the government.

Which agency is hiring for this position?

This position is with Smithsonian Institution , Other Agencies and Independent Organizations.

What is the salary for this position?

The posted pay range is $151661 – $228000/yr.

What security clearance is required?

This position requires a Other security clearance.

What is the application deadline?

Applications close on 2026-10-16.

Who is eligible to apply?

This position is open under the 'Disability' hiring path.