Security Management Specialists
Security management specialists assess organizational security needs and design systems to protect employees, facilities, and assets. They work in corporate offices, government agencies, healthcare facilities, and other large organizations. The role combines analysis of physical security, access control, surveillance, and safety protocols with the planning and implementation of comprehensive security strategies.
Four short assessments and your background, scored against security management specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
A day in the work
A security management specialist might spend time reviewing facility blueprints and access logs, meeting with department heads about vulnerabilities, or testing alarm systems. They could audit compliance with security policies, research new technology solutions, analyze incident reports, and develop training materials for staff. Some days involve site inspections, vendor consultations, or presenting security recommendations to leadership.
Who this work suits
Holland code CIR. Conventional work is organized, detail-oriented work with clear procedures. Aptly’s interest assessment scores you on the same six scales.
You tend to think systematically about problems and enjoy digging into details to find issues others miss. You're drawn to practical, orderly work environments where you can follow procedures and see concrete results. If you like investigation and prefer working with established methods and clear standards, this career uses those strengths.
What it takes
Preparation: Considerable preparation (most need a bachelor’s degree and several years of experience). Most people in this occupation hold a bachelor’s degree.
Skills that matter most
Knowledge areas
Who is hiring
Openings right now
- Space Management Specialist (Security) · Citizenship and Immigration Services · Multiple Locations · $90925–$118204
- Security Risk Management Specialist · Canonical · Anywhere · Remote
Openings are read from employers’ own career pages and public job boards and change daily. Search all openings (free account) to filter by distance, pay and how well you qualify.
Pay by state
| State | 25th pct | Median | 75th pct | Employed |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| District of Columbia | $81,720 | $108,160 | $140,670 | 37,790 |
| Maryland | $76,470 | $101,500 | $131,280 | 39,820 |
| Washington | $78,980 | $100,360 | $128,830 | 51,650 |
| Alabama | $77,000 | $100,240 | $131,270 | 6,990 |
| Delaware | $69,580 | $95,040 | $132,100 | 1,600 |
| Alaska | $76,000 | $94,740 | $113,740 | 2,020 |
| Oklahoma | $76,020 | $93,640 | $113,980 | 5,700 |
| Massachusetts | $69,980 | $93,270 | $114,750 | 17,910 |
| Hawaii | $71,000 | $92,620 | $117,190 | 4,030 |
| Colorado | $67,610 | $92,520 | $121,120 | 45,670 |
| New Jersey | $71,680 | $91,060 | $117,260 | 34,210 |
| Rhode Island | $65,080 | $88,130 | $115,230 | 2,240 |
All 50 states, D.C. and Puerto Rico
Certifications people in this field hold
- Systems Security Certified Practitioner (SSCP) — International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, Inc.
- Project Management E-Business (PME) — Institute of Certified E-Commerce Consultants
- EC Council Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO) — EC-Council
- Certified Workplace Violence and Threat Specialist (WVTS) — McAfee Institute
- Certified Lodging Security Director (CLSD) — American Hotel and Lodging Association Educational Institute
- Basic Court Security Certification (CSC1) — National Sheriffs' Association
Training
Aptly members see WIOA-approved programs, colleges and certificates near them, with completion and earnings data, on every Path plan.
Job titles in this occupation
Related occupations
Four short assessments and your background, scored against security management specialists and 13,000 other careers — with the reasons. Free.
O*NET-SOC 13-1199.07 · O*NET OnLine. Pay: BLS OEWS May 2025, annual, U.S. Employment counts are national.