Senior Physical Security Manager

Topsteptrader; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 160,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off is front-loaded

Competitive 401(k) matching

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Vacations encouraged with a bonus for taking 5 consecutive days

Food and groceries budget

Job summary

Topsteptrader is seeking a Physical Security Manager to lead the company's physical security strategy across its multiple offices. The successful candidate will transition informal security processes into a robust, technology-driven program, ensuring all locations are safe and secure.

This role includes responsibility for managing risk assessments, implementing security systems, and fostering a security-oriented culture. The candidate should have at least 8 years of experience in corporate security management and be proficient in access control and risk assessment techniques.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in corporate security management.
• Expert in implementing enterprise-grade ACS and VMS.
• Experience with physical security audits for SOC2 Type II or similar.
• Ability to conduct custom threat assessments.
• Experience designing and facilitating emergency response exercises.

Responsibilities

• Lead physical security strategy across multiple locations.
• Manage deployment of cloud-based access control systems.
• Conduct physical security risk assessments.
• Author and maintain Emergency Action Plans.
• Develop Anti-Tailgating Awareness Programs.

Skills

Corporate security management

Access Control Systems (ACS)

Video Management Systems (VMS)

Emergency preparedness training

Threat assessment methodologies

Communication skills

Negotiation and management

Job description

Summary:

As the Physical Security Manager, you will be the foundational lead for our physical protection strategy. We are looking for a builder who can transition our current informal processes into a robust, scalable, and technology-driven security program. You will own the entire lifecycle of physical security—from conducting initial risk assessments and selecting vendors to implementing enterprise‑grade access control systems and fostering a culture of safety across our multi‑city footprint.

Key Responsibilities

• System Implementation & Operationalization: Select and project‑manage the deployment of a unified, cloud‑based Access Control (ACS) and Visitor Management System (VMS) across all 5 offices.
• Hardening & Risk Assessment: Conduct comprehensive Physical Security Risk Assessments (PSRA) for all sites. Identify vulnerabilities and implement physical hardening measures (ballistic glass, reinforced entries, etc.).
• Emergency Preparedness: Author and maintain all Emergency Action Plans (EAPs). Lead tabletop exercises and floor warden training for fire, life safety, and active threat scenarios.
• Asset Protection & Disposal (Hardware & IP): Design and enforce protocols to secure and destroy, at end of life, Sensitive Proprietary Information and IT Hardware.
• Security Culture & Awareness: Develop and launch an Anti‑Tailgating Awareness Program. Transition the company culture from "passive politeness" to "active security" through training and social engineering testing.
• Executive Protection & Threat Assessment: Conduct bespoke Threat Assessments for Executive Team (ET) members, evaluating their public‑facing risk profiles, residential security, and travel safety.

Required Qualifications and Key Competencies

• 8 + years of progressive experience in corporate security management, with a demonstrable track record of building and scaling physical security programs from "ground zero" in high‑growth technology or financial services environments.
• Expert‑level proficiency in selecting, procuring, and implementing enterprise‑grade, cloud‑native Access Control (ACS) and Video Management Systems (VMS), specifically integrating these with HRIS and Identity Providers.
• Deep experience navigating physical security audits for SOC2 Type II, PCI‑DSS, or ISO 27001, ensuring all physical controls are documented, tested, and evidence‑ready.
• Mastery of threat assessment methodologies to conduct Executive Team (ET) risk profiles, residential assessments, and bespoke protection plans for high‑profile leadership.
• Ability to design and facilitate sophisticated tabletop exercises and emergency response simulations for senior leadership, bridging the gap between physical safety and business continuity.
• Sophisticated negotiation and management skills for third‑party service providers, including global security integrators and contract guarding services, with a focus on Zero‑Trust physical access models.
• Influential Communication: Exceptional "soft skills" with the ability to build a security‑first culture without introducing unnecessary friction; able to translate complex physical risks into business‑impact language for C‑Suite stakeholders.
• Proficient in establishing Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and security metrics to provide the board with transparent reporting on program ROI and site vulnerability trends.
• A self‑starter who thrives in "immature" program environments, possessing the agility to pivot from high‑level strategic planning to on‑site technical troubleshooting.
• Unwavering commitment to confidentiality and ethical conduct, particularly when handling sensitive information regarding Executive Team safety and proprietary fintech IP.
• A preference for modern, frictionless security solutions over traditional, bureaucratic "gatekeeping" models environments.
• Willingness and ability to travel once per quarter for team meetings, trainings, or business needs.

Company Culture & Perks

• Topstep is an engaging working environment that ranges from fully remote to hybrid. We foster a culture of collaboration by keeping cameras on during meetings and maintaining a robust Slack environment for communication.
• Seven Company‑paid Holidays and generous Family Leave. Paid time off is front‑loaded.
• Competitive 401(k) matching, health, dental, and vision insurance are offered for full‑time employees.
• Vacations are encouraged with a bonus for taking 5 consecutive days. Topstep offers a food and groceries budget and contributes towards health and wellness.

New Hire Base Salary Range

• $160,000 - $180,000.
• The compensation offered will take into account the internal compensation structure and may vary depending on the candidate's geographic region, job‑related knowledge, skills, and experience, among other factors.
• This position is eligible for a performance‑based bonus as provided by the plan terms and governing documents.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Topstep is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where all employees and applicants are valued. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status, in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.