Access Control Specialist (Team Lead)

Access Control Specialist (Team Lead)

Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of Deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world.

Job Title : Access Control Specialist (Team Lead)

Worker Type : Regular

Pay Type : Hourly

Exempt Status : No

Compensation Grade (Track / Level) : S2

Hiring Range (Commensurate with experience and qualifications) :

Supervisory Organization (Department) : Department of Public Safety

Summary : Reporting to the Access Control Manager, the Access Control Specialist (Team Lead) leads and coordinates the installation, maintenance, and repair of electronic access control systems throughout the campus.

Job Description :

Supports the locksmith shop and assists with mechanical locking systems and key control operations; and serves as the primary technical point of contact for complex access control issues, provides support for locksmith services as needed, and ensures that all security systems operate reliably, securely, and in compliance with institutional standards.

Leads daily operations, including scheduling, task assignments, and performance monitoring for technical staff.

Acts as a subject matter expert for access control technologies and point of escalation for advanced troubleshooting.

Coordinates and monitors work performed by internal staff and external contractors to ensure quality, compliance, and timely completion of tasks.

Serves as the liaison between Access Control and other key departments, including the Department of Public Safety and Facilities, for project coordination.

Installs, configures, programs, and maintains electronic access control devices such as card readers, door controllers, electric strikes, maglocks, request-to-exit devices, and related low-voltage wiring.

Troubleshoots and resolves operational issues and hardware, software, and system integrations.

Performs preventive maintenance on all electronic access systems to ensure optimal performance and reliability.

Maintains and updates systems under databases, access levels, and door schedules in compliance with security policies.

Assists with the integration of access control with other security systems (e.g., CCTV, alarms, and visitor management systems).

Assists the locksmith shop in installing, repairing, and maintaining mechanical locks, door hardware, hinges, closers, and panic buttons.

Supports the issuance, tracking, and recordkeeping of physical keys in accordance with the institution's key control policy.

Assists in master key system maintenance and documentation.

Recommends hardware upgrades to improve campus security and operational efficiency.

Participates in security-related capital and renovation projects, ensuring access control and locksmith needs are addressed in the planning and execution phase.

Maintains accurate records of all service work, inventory usage, and system modifications.

Assists in developing and updating standard operating procedures for both access control and locksmith support functions.

Provides technical input on new security technologies and process improvements.

Ensures all work complies with institutional security policies, building codes, fire codes, ADA requirements, and relevant industry standards.

Follows established safety procedures and ensures team compliance with OSHA regulations.

Assists in periodic system audits and inspections to verify compliance and performance.

Establishes and maintains a positive and supportive working relationship with co-workers and supervisors.

Demonstrates a genuine commitment to belonging in the workplace and participates in activities and workshops to foster continuous learning.

Serves as a mandatory reporter under Title IX and commits to completing Title IX training and other compliance requirements on an annual basis.

Prioritizes safety in the workplace as a collective responsibility for the well-being of employees and fosters a culture of safety that is integral to our success, including strict adherence to safety procedures and protocols, as well as promptly reporting any safety hazards or incidents.

Performs related and other duties as needed.

Required Qualifications :

High School diploma or GED.

A minimum of three years of experience with access control, security management, or a related field.

Ability to communicate in American Sign Language.

Preferred Qualifications :

Locksmith certification (e.g., ALOA).

Manufacturer certification in access control hardware or software.

Experience working in a higher education setting.

Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities :

Strong knowledge of applicable codes and standards (NFPA, ADA, ANSI / BHMA).

Strong proficiency in low-voltage wiring, access control device installation, and mechanical lock servicing.

Strong familiarity with enterprise-level access control software (e.g., GENETEC, LENEL, and CCURE, and mechanical locking systems).

Strong ability to interpret blueprints, wiring diagrams, and technical manuals.

Strong troubleshooting, problem-solving, and organizational skills.

Strong skills with computer systems and Microsoft Office applications.

Demonstrated ability to work with and across University departments, outside constituents, and groups.

Additional Position Details :

The incumbent must have a valid driver's license.

Other Important Information :

The successful candidate will undergo a background check that must be cleared prior to working at Gallaudet University.

Gallaudet University is an equal opportunity employer / educational institution and does not discriminate on the basis of race, sex, national origin, religion, age, hearing status, disability, genetic information, covered veteran status, marital status, personal appearance, sexual orientation, family responsibilities, matriculation, political affiliation, source of income, place of business or residence, pregnancy, childbirth, or any other unlawful basis. This policy is in compliance with Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Rehabilitation Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the District of Columbia Human Rights Act, and other applicable laws and applies to all procedures affecting applicants and employees including, but not necessarily limited to : recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, reassignment, reappointment, tenure, demotion, selection for training, layoff, furlough, and termination, compensation, and all other conditions or privileges of employment.