Senior Physical Security Systems Engineer, Infrastructure at Chan Zuckerberg Initiative

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Physical Security Systems Engineer, Infrastructure
Company: Chan Zuckerberg Initiative
Location: Redwood City, CA (Open to Flex)
Job Type: Hybrid (3 days in-office per week)
Category: Infrastructure & Security
Date Posted: June 20, 2025
Experience Level: 10+ years

🚀 Role Summary

Key Responsibilities: Design, implement, and optimize physical security systems, including Access Control Systems (ACS), Video Management Systems (VMS), and Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS). Manage large-scale installations, system upgrades, and API integrations. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
Key Skills: Proficiency in major access control systems, API integrations, database management, scripting languages, network security, AWS, Microsoft Azure, and low voltage circuitry. Strong communication, documentation, analytical, and project management skills.

💻 Primary Responsibilities

System Management & Integration:
- Support the selection, installation, programming, and maintenance of ACS, VMS, IDS, and cloud/SaaS security infrastructure.
- Coordinate and manage physical security projects, including new construction and upgrades, system migrations, and the commissioning of ACS, IDS, and VMS technologies.
- Develop and maintain physical security standards, ensuring alignment with site drawings, project plans, and operational requirements.
- Monitor and manage software, firmware, and OS updates/patches for servers, databases, and applications supporting physical security systems.
- Develop API integrations with various business platforms, including Envoy, Workday, Slack, and Google Workspace.
Security System Optimization & Enhancement:
- Evaluate and implement new security technologies and system enhancements, including proof-of-concept testing and operational integration. Maintain our physical security technology lab environment.
- Participate in on-call rotations and cross-functional meetings to resolve issues, recommend solutions, and enhance security system utilization for improved monitoring and decision-making.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Relevant certifications (e.g., CISSP, CISM) are a plus.

Experience: 7+ years of experience designing, implementing, and supporting enterprise-level physical security systems and related IT infrastructure.

Required Skills:

Proficiency with major access control systems (e.g., Lenel S2, OnGuard, Genetec, CCURE)
Strong scripting skills (Python, PowerShell) and familiarity with database management
Solid understanding of network security and protocols (DNS, VLANs, routing)
Experience managing infrastructure in AWS or Microsoft Azure cloud environments
Knowledge of low voltage circuitry, including circuit diagnostics and protocols (Wiegand, OSDP)
Excellent communication, documentation, analytical, and project management skills

Preferred Skills:

Experience with video management systems (e.g., Milestone, Genetec, Avigilon)
Familiarity with intrusion detection systems (e.g., Honeywell, Senstar, Bosch)
Knowledge of access control system integration with business platforms (e.g., Envoy, Workday, Slack, Google Workspace)

📊 Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

Detailed system designs and technical documentation for Access Control Systems, Video Management Systems, and Intrusion Detection Systems
Case studies demonstrating successful API integrations and system enhancements
Examples of security system optimization and performance improvement projects

Technical Documentation:

Code quality and commenting standards for scripting languages (Python, PowerShell)
Version control, deployment processes, and server configuration best practices
Testing methodologies, performance metrics, and optimization techniques for physical security systems

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The Redwood City, CA base pay range for this role is [INSERT GROUP 0 PAY RANGE]. New hires are typically hired into the lower portion of the range, enabling employee growth in the range over time. Actual placement in range is based on job-related skills and experience, as evaluated throughout the interview process.

Benefits:

401(k) Employer Match
Annual Benefit (for housing, student loan repayment, childcare, commuter costs, or other life needs)
Life of Service Gifts (to support causes closest to employees)
Paid Time Off to Volunteer (at an organization of employee's choice)
Funding for Family-forming Benefits
Relocation Support (for employees moving to the Bay Area)

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with specific in-office days determined by the team's manager.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative operates at the intersection of technology and philanthropy, focusing on science, education, and community initiatives.

Company Size: Medium-sized organization with a collaborative and mission-driven culture.

Founded: 2015, by Priscilla Chan and Mark Zuckerberg

Team Structure:

Central Operations & Partners team, consisting of multiple departments supporting CZI's mission
Central Tech team, providing technology and security support for CZI and grantees, with three pillars: Infrastructure, Security, and Grantee & Partner Support

Development Methodology:

Agile/Scrum methodologies for project management and collaboration
Cross-functional collaboration with design, marketing, and business teams
Regular code reviews, testing, and quality assurance practices
Deployment strategies, CI/CD pipelines, and server management for physical security systems

Company Website: www.chanzuckerberg.com

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and impact, with a strong focus on mission-driven work and continuous learning.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Web Technology Career Level: Senior-level role with significant experience in physical security systems and related IT infrastructure. This role offers opportunities for technical leadership, architecture decision-making, and mentoring.

Reporting Structure: The Physical Security Systems Engineer reports directly to the Manager of Physical Security Systems and collaborates with the Central Tech team, other key stakeholders, and cross-functional teams.

Technical Impact: This role has a significant impact on the safety, security, and operational efficiency of CZI's physical environments. It directly influences the user experience, decision-making processes, and the overall success of CZI's mission.

Growth Opportunities:

Technical leadership and architecture decision-making opportunities
Mentoring and knowledge-sharing responsibilities
Potential expansion into emerging technologies and innovative security solutions

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's fast-paced and dynamic environment provides ample opportunities for professional growth and development.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Hybrid work environment, with employees expected to be onsite for at least 60% of the working month (approximately 3 days per week).

Office Location(s): Redwood City, CA (with potential for remote work flexibility)

Workspace Context:

Collaborative workspace with cross-functional teams, fostering knowledge-sharing and innovation
Access to top-tier tools and resources for physical security system design, implementation, and management
Opportunities for professional development and training

Work Schedule: Flexible work schedule, with specific in-office days determined by the team's manager. The role may require on-call rotations and participation in cross-functional meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's hybrid work environment balances onsite collaboration with remote flexibility, enabling employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

🛠 Technology Stack & Web Infrastructure

Physical Security Technologies:

Access Control Systems: Lenel S2, OnGuard, Genetec, CCURE
Video Management Systems: Milestone, Genetec, Avigilon
Intrusion Detection Systems: Honeywell, Senstar, Bosch

Cloud & Infrastructure Platforms:

AWS (Amazon Web Services)
Microsoft Azure
Low voltage circuitry protocols: Wiegand, OSDP

Scripting & Development Tools:

Python
PowerShell
Database management tools (e.g., SQL Server Management Studio, MySQL Workbench)
Version control systems (e.g., Git, SVN)
CI/CD pipelines (e.g., Jenkins, GitLab CI/CD)

Collaboration & Communication Tools:

Envoy (for visitor management and access control)
Workday (for HR and talent management)
Slack (for team communication)
Google Workspace (for productivity and collaboration)

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's technology stack is designed to support the organization's mission and enable employees to work efficiently and effectively.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Physical Security Systems Engineer Values:

Safety & Security Focus: Prioritize the safety and security of CZI's physical environments and users
Innovation & Continuous Learning: Embrace emerging technologies and best practices to enhance physical security systems and user experiences
Collaboration & Cross-functional Communication: Work closely with cross-functional teams to ensure physical security systems meet user needs and support CZI's mission
Attention to Detail & Quality: Maintain high standards for system design, implementation, and documentation to ensure optimal performance and reliability

Collaboration Style:

Cross-functional Integration: Collaborate with design, marketing, and business teams to ensure physical security systems align with user needs, branding, and business objectives
Code Review & Knowledge Sharing: Participate in code reviews and knowledge-sharing sessions to maintain high-quality standards and foster a culture of continuous learning
Mentoring & Technical Guidance: Provide technical guidance and mentoring to junior team members and stakeholders to enhance their skills and contribute to their professional development

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's team culture emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and continuous learning, with a strong focus on mission-driven work and user-centered design.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

Emerging Technologies: Stay up-to-date with the latest physical security technologies and integrate them into CZI's environments to enhance safety and user experiences
System Integration: Develop and maintain seamless integrations between physical security systems and business platforms, ensuring optimal performance and user experience
Performance Optimization: Continuously monitor and optimize physical security systems to ensure they meet CZI's evolving needs and maintain high performance standards
User Experience Enhancement: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance the user experience of physical security systems, ensuring they are intuitive, accessible, and user-friendly

Learning & Development Opportunities:

Technical Skill Development: Expand knowledge of physical security systems, emerging technologies, and best practices through training, workshops, and online resources
Leadership & Mentoring: Develop leadership and mentoring skills to guide junior team members and stakeholders, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth
Architecture & Design: Enhance architecture and design skills to make informed decisions about physical security system design, integration, and optimization

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's fast-paced and dynamic environment presents numerous challenges and growth opportunities for physical security systems engineers to develop their skills and advance their careers.

💡 Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

Physical Security Systems: Demonstrate a deep understanding of Access Control Systems, Video Management Systems, and Intrusion Detection Systems, including their components, protocols, and best practices
API Integrations: Explain your experience with API integrations, data mapping, and system interoperability, with a focus on physical security systems and business platforms
Network Security: Discuss your knowledge of network security protocols, including DNS, VLANs, and routing, and their application to physical security systems
Cloud & Infrastructure Management: Describe your experience with cloud and infrastructure management, with a focus on AWS, Microsoft Azure, and low voltage circuitry

Company & Culture Questions:

Mission-driven Work: Explain your understanding of the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's mission and how your work as a Physical Security Systems Engineer contributes to its success
Collaboration & Teamwork: Describe your experience working in a collaborative, cross-functional team environment and how you've contributed to its success
Adaptability & Continuous Learning: Discuss your ability to adapt to new technologies, tools, and processes, and how you've leveraged continuous learning to advance your career

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

System Design & Documentation: Present detailed system designs and technical documentation for Access Control Systems, Video Management Systems, and Intrusion Detection Systems, highlighting your attention to detail and commitment to quality
API Integration Case Studies: Demonstrate successful API integrations and system enhancements, showcasing your ability to bridge physical security systems and business platforms
Performance Optimization & User Experience: Highlight projects that showcase your ability to optimize physical security system performance and enhance user experiences

📝 Enhancement Note: The Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's interview process focuses on assessing candidates' technical skills, cultural fit, and commitment to the organization's mission. By preparing thoroughly and demonstrating your understanding of the role's requirements and the organization's values, you'll increase your chances of success.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Physical Security Systems Engineer, Infrastructure position at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative:

Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and accomplishments in physical security systems, API integrations, and cloud/infrastructure management.
Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate a portfolio showcasing your system designs, API integrations, and performance optimization projects, with a focus on Access Control Systems, Video Management Systems, and Intrusion Detection Systems.
Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative's mission, values, and culture to ensure a strong fit and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.
Practice Technical Interview Questions: Brush up on your technical skills and prepare for interview questions related to physical security systems, API integrations, network security, and cloud/infrastructure management.
Prepare for Behavioral Interview Questions: Reflect on your past experiences and be ready to discuss your problem-solving skills, adaptability, and commitment to continuous learning and mission-driven work.

By following these steps and demonstrating your qualifications, skills, and enthusiasm, you'll increase your chances of success in the application process for this Senior Physical Security Systems Engineer, Infrastructure role at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative.

Senior Physical Security Systems Engineer, Infrastructure