Why you should join the team

The Physical Security Specialist will ensure the safety and security of all employees and VELCO assets throughout the State of Vermont. This position reports to the Manager, Field Services within the Transmission Services department. This position is responsible for developing, implementing, and managing security programs and policies to ensure compliance with federal and state regulations. Technical and project management experience and mindset are key attributes of successful candidates.

How you will make an impact

  • Oversees the administration and management of VELCO’s contracted security staff and equipment. Assists contracted staff by providing leadership, training, and support.
  • Maintains communication with supervisor of contracted security services.
  • Trained to perform duties of a Security Officer.
  • Reviews and updates Security Officer’s SOP as needed.
  • Monitors and reviews Security email and Officer Log/Record Management System.
  • Responds to security office business needs related to job tasks per VELCO contract.
  • Owns and manages budget and RFP processes.
  • Oversees security event investigations and response to events that impact the organization.
    • Critical functions for this position include communication and collaboration with law enforcement and federal, state and local regulatory agencies. During an emergency response with impacts to the physical security of VELCO or neighboring utilities, this position plays an essential role to assess, communicate and respond in an expeditious and compliant manner.
  • Reviews reports generated by security and assists with internal and external investigations.
  • Responds to emergency calls, investigates incidents, and conducts follow-up reviews as necessary.
  • Manages all components of the physical security program across the organization including but not limited to the following
    • Monitor equipment inventory levels
  • Maintenance of existing physical security assets
  • Coordinating with facilities to maintain physical security components and identify project upgrade needs
  • Managing overall physical security budget including maintenance, contracts, upgrades, and equipment purchase needs
  • Continuously evaluate and assess the current physical security controls
  • Continuously evaluate new physical security technologies with respect to VELCO’s security posture
  • Works with team members to produce draft scope of work documents for contracted security maintenance work for submission and finalization by the Procurement department.
  • Oversees the execution of the contracted security maintenance work to ensure that the work is performed in accordance with the scope of work.
  • Keeps abreast of all security-related information, directives, and events and takes appropriate actions to ensure security staff are properly trained and equipped to manage potential issues or breaches. Participates and networks in physical security working groups including but not limited to; NATF, NPCC, E-ISAC.
  • Maintains relationships and coordinates with local, state, and federal law enforcement personnel and/or other officials as well as Vermont distribution utilities on security-related issues or events.
  • Participates in VELCO’s First Responder Outreach Team efforts. Works with the VELCO Manager of Field Services to coordinate with emergency responders; perform necessary training and facility walk throughs.
  • Serves as the standard owner for Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP-006: physical security of cyber systems).
    • Participates in NERC CIP compliance audits to demonstrate compliance with federal physical security standards.
  • Maintains a working knowledge of CIP-006 and works with VELCO’s Compliance department to meet CIP obligations.
  • Compiles/collects audit evidence in coordination with the CIP-006 subject matter expert.
  • Collaborates with Compliance and HR on VELCO’s annual Security Awareness Training.
  • Serve as subject matter expert for company security policies and procedures. Develops and/or provides updates and necessary modifications to company policies and procedures.
  • Works with multiple departments to issue and track VELCO controlled keys. Performs bi-annual audits on VELCO controlled key program.
  • Manages security system review meetings to identify deficiencies and work to be completed for optimal performance of security systems.
  • Develop risk management assessments and participate in company emergency preparedness exercises.
  • Assists in the creation and delivery of workplace and security awareness training for employees and contractors. To include but not limited to: Active Threat, Run/Hide/Fight and De-escalation training.
  • Maintains/updates VELCO’s Security Intranet Page.
  • Actively supports the company’s strategic initiatives in support of the company’s mission, vision, and values.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Who you are

A minimum of 5-7 years of experience in Security, Security Management, law enforcement or related discipline. A background and mindset in technical application in security systems including cameras, physical access controls, specific security software and compliance standards. Facilitate training related to Run, Hide, Fight and/or Active Threat training.

Knowledge/Skills

  • Project management experience and proven ability to manage projects on time and within budget is preferred.
  • Excellent interpersonal relationships skills.
  • Written and verbal communication skills.
  • Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
  • Excellent time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
  • Proficient skills with Microsoft suite including Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with employees, vendors and contractors.
  • Strong leadership and decision-making skills.
  • Knowledge of computerized physical security systems.
  • Willingness to learn and share information in a collaborative work environment.

Important considerations

  • Must be able to withstand prolonged periods of sitting or standing at a desk while working on a computer.
  • Must be able to access VELCO’s facilities – located throughout Vermont - which include substations and transmission line right-of-ways that extend across variable and often difficult terrain.
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 pounds and withstand strenuous activities from time to time.
  • Must maintain a valid driver’s license.
  • Must be able to maintain fast pace while completing complex work, with competing priorities, within tight timelines.
  • Must be able to work effectively in potential stressfully situations.

• VELCO is an Equal Employment Opportunity & Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.

• Starting pay will be determined at the time of offer based on the experience, education, and training of the successful candidate.

• Eligible applicants must be authorized to work in the United States.

VELCO is handling all aspects of talent acquisition internally and will not engage the services of third-party staffing agencies, recruiters, or headhunters. We kindly request that these entities refrain from contacting us.

• Any offer of employment will be contingent upon successful reference check, background check, physical examination, drug screening, and documentation of Covid-19 vaccination unless candidate qualifies for a vaccine exemption.

• VELCO's headquarters are located in Rutland, Vermont. This position is primarily on site with occasional remote work.

• If you need an accommodation as part of the application or interview process please reach out.