Data Center Physical Security Manager

Manager, Physical Security Operations

Location: Spartanburg, SC (On-Site)

Type: Direct Hire

• $130K–$165K base salary performance bonus

• 100% company-paid benefits

Overview

We are seeking a Manager, Physical Security Operations to lead the day-to-day execution of physical security within a mission-critical data center environment.

Reporting to the Director of Physical Security Operations, this role serves as the on-site operational leader responsible for enforcing access control, surveillance, incident response, patrols, and secure logistics. This position oversees contracted security providers and ensures strict adherence to post orders, SOPs, EOPs, and operational standards.

This is a highly visible, hands-on leadership role operating in a 24/7/365 environment, requiring strong field presence, real-time decision-making, and disciplined execution to protect personnel, assets, and infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

Security Operations Leadership

• Lead daily physical security operations across all posts and shifts
• Ensure continuous 24/7/365 coverage aligned to staffing and operational needs
• Enforce post orders, SOPs, and EOPs through inspections and direct oversight
• Act as primary escalation point for on-site incidents and operational issues
• Maintain real-time situational awareness of site conditions and risk posture

Access Control & Site Security

• Oversee administration of employee, visitor, vendor, and contractor access
• Ensure compliance with badge systems, visitor management, and vehicle screening
• Enforce site policies including PPE, uniform standards, and restricted access zones
• Audit access logs, visitor records, and exception reports for compliance

Surveillance & Incident Response

• Oversee CCTV, alarm monitoring, and intrusion detection systems
• Direct response to incidents including breaches, alarms, and emergencies
• Ensure proper documentation, reporting, and evidence handling
• Support incident reviews, root cause analysis, and corrective actions

Secure Logistics & Material Handling

• Oversee secure handling of inbound/outbound materials and chain-of-custody protocols
• Supervise package screening and logging procedures
• Partner with shipping/receiving teams to ensure security compliance
• Leverage cross-trained staff across security and logistics functions

Vendor & Performance Management

• Manage contracted security providers against KPIs and SLAs
• Address performance issues, staffing gaps, and training needs
• Support training, cross-training, and guard force readiness
• Participate in audits of systems, processes, and personnel

Cross-Functional Coordination

• Partner with operations, EH&S, facilities, and security leadership
• Participate in drills, safety meetings, and operational briefings
• Support emergency preparedness and coordinated response efforts
• Provide reporting and operational insights to leadership

Required Experience

• 5–8 years in physical security operations within mission-critical or high-reliability environments (data centers, logistics, corporate campuses, military, etc.)
• Experience leading security teams or managing contracted guard services
• Strong knowledge of access control, CCTV, alarms, intrusion detection, and visitor management systems
• Experience supporting secure shipping/receiving, package screening, and chain-of-custody procedures
• Ability to operate in a fast-paced, 24/7 environment with strong leadership and decision-making skills
• Strong communication and cross-functional coordination capabilities

Additional Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Security Management, Business, Military discipline, or equivalent experience
• Certifications such as PSP, CPP, or similar preferred
• Ability to pass background checks and meet fitness-for-duty requirements

Scope & Authority

• Operational authority over on-site physical security activities during assigned shifts
• Authority to enforce post orders, deny/revoke access, and stop work for safety/security concerns
• Authority to escalate incidents and initiate emergency response protocols
• Strategic decisions (policy, contracts, staffing models) escalated to Director level