Security Specialist Jobs in Illinois
Security Specialist jobs in Illinois are in strong and consistent demand, concentrated in corporate risk management, financial services, healthcare systems, and critical infrastructure protection, with openings at every level from entry-level security analyst through senior specialist and program lead. Chicago is the primary hiring hub, followed by Naperville and Schaumburg, where major employers like United Airlines, Allstate, and Advocate Health Care maintain large security operations. The most sought-after specialties in Illinois right now are physical security program management, cybersecurity integration, and access control and surveillance systems oversight. Find a role that fits below and apply directly.
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Security Systems Integration Specialist
Overview
Company Overview:
Job Description
Allied Universal® is hiring a Security Systems Integrations Specialist. The Security Systems Integrations Specialist will administer and configure enterprise-level physical security technologies. The Security Systems Programmer’s responsibilities include support and configuration of access control systems, video management platforms, and security hardware, as well as deploying emerging technologies. The role requires strong technical skills in system integration, and hardware configuration to ensure optimal security performance and compliance.
- Program and configure access control systems, including user credential logic, badge management, and automated audit processes
- Set up and configure physical security hardware such as card readers, controllers, cameras, and networked devices
- Administer and customize video management systems (VMS), including camera configurations, video wall setup, and automated health monitoring
- Assist with developing scripts and automation tools for system monitoring, reporting, and compliance verification
- Integrate physical security systems with enterprise Information Technology and factory automation platforms
- Deploy and configure emerging technologies such as AI-driven analytics, IoT security devices, and cloud-based solutions
- Perform system upgrades, patching, and new installations with custom configuration scripts
- Maintain technical documentation, code repositories, and version control for all programming tasks
- Create and deliver training programs for technical staff and end-users on custom tools and workflows
- Gather and analyze system data for dashboards, performance metrics, and project reporting
- Collaborate with IT and other departments to ensure secure and efficient integration of systems
- Research and recommend innovative programming solutions to enhance security operations
- Manage service calls, troubleshoot technical issues, and oversee daily operational support
- Provide weekly status updates to management including accomplishments, activities in progress, and support needs
- Must possess one of the following:
- Associate’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering or related field with a minimum of three (3) years of field installation, networking, and security systems administration experience
- High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of five (5) years of programming and system administration experience
- Must possess, or be able to obtain, a Security License (guard certification) issued by the state of Illinois
- Minimum of three (3) years programming experience
- Experience with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and system integrations
- Basic understanding of scripting languages PowerShell and SQL for database queries
- Proficient with access control platforms (LenelS2) and VMS platforms (Genetec, Milestone, Victor)
- Strong understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, VLANs, firewalls)
- Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver within deadlines
- Excellent documentation and presentation skills
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field of study
- Certifications in physical security technologies (Lenel Certified Professional, Genetec Technical Certification)
- Experience with automation frameworks and orchestration tools
- Knowledge of cybersecurity principles related to physical security systems
- Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, retirement plan and disability insurance
- Eight paid holidays annually, five sick days, and four personal days
- Vacation time offered at an accrual rate of 3.08 hours biweekly. Unused vacation is only paid out where required by law.
Closing
Allied Universal® is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com
Requisition ID
2026-1695150
Security Systems Integration Specialist
Overview
Company Overview:
Job Description
Allied Universal® is hiring a Security Systems Integrations Specialist. The Security Systems Integrations Specialist will administer and configure enterprise-level physical security technologies. The Security Systems Programmer’s responsibilities include support and configuration of access control systems, video management platforms, and security hardware, as well as deploying emerging technologies. The role requires strong technical skills in system integration, and hardware configuration to ensure optimal security performance and compliance.
- Program and configure access control systems, including user credential logic, badge management, and automated audit processes
- Set up and configure physical security hardware such as card readers, controllers, cameras, and networked devices
- Administer and customize video management systems (VMS), including camera configurations, video wall setup, and automated health monitoring
- Assist with developing scripts and automation tools for system monitoring, reporting, and compliance verification
- Integrate physical security systems with enterprise Information Technology and factory automation platforms
- Deploy and configure emerging technologies such as AI-driven analytics, IoT security devices, and cloud-based solutions
- Perform system upgrades, patching, and new installations with custom configuration scripts
- Maintain technical documentation, code repositories, and version control for all programming tasks
- Create and deliver training programs for technical staff and end-users on custom tools and workflows
- Gather and analyze system data for dashboards, performance metrics, and project reporting
- Collaborate with IT and other departments to ensure secure and efficient integration of systems
- Research and recommend innovative programming solutions to enhance security operations
- Manage service calls, troubleshoot technical issues, and oversee daily operational support
- Provide weekly status updates to management including accomplishments, activities in progress, and support needs
- Must possess one of the following:
- Associate’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering or related field with a minimum of three (3) years of field installation, networking, and security systems administration experience
- High school diploma or equivalent with a minimum of five (5) years of programming and system administration experience
- Must possess, or be able to obtain, a Security License (guard certification) issued by the state of Illinois
- Minimum of three (3) years programming experience
- Experience with Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) and system integrations
- Basic understanding of scripting languages PowerShell and SQL for database queries
- Proficient with access control platforms (LenelS2) and VMS platforms (Genetec, Milestone, Victor)
- Strong understanding of networking concepts (TCP/IP, VLANs, firewalls)
- Strong problem-solving and debugging skills
- Ability to manage multiple projects and deliver within deadlines
- Excellent documentation and presentation skills
- Effective oral and written communication skills
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment
- Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, or related field of study
- Certifications in physical security technologies (Lenel Certified Professional, Genetec Technical Certification)
- Experience with automation frameworks and orchestration tools
- Knowledge of cybersecurity principles related to physical security systems
- Medical, dental, vision, basic life, AD&D, retirement plan and disability insurance
- Eight paid holidays annually, five sick days, and four personal days
- Vacation time offered at an accrual rate of 3.08 hours biweekly. Unused vacation is only paid out where required by law.
Closing
Allied Universal® is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race/ethnicity, age, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, genetic information, disability, protected veteran status or relationship/association with a protected veteran, or any other basis or characteristic protected by law. For more information: www.aus.com
Requisition ID
2026-1695150
See All 49 Security Specialist Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
Find Security Specialist JobsSecurity Specialist Jobs by City in Illinois
Where Illinois roles are concentrated, by current openings.
Security Specialist Job Market in Illinois
A snapshot from current Illinois openings, updated as new roles post.
Who's Hiring
- Target13
- Zen Leaf6
- Walgreens2
- Allied Universal2
- Lowe's Home Improvement2
What Illinois Employers Look For
The qualifications that appear most often in security specialist jobs across Illinois.
- Active Illinois Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) issued by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation
- Minimum two years of experience in security operations, law enforcement, or loss prevention
- Proficiency with access control systems, CCTV platforms, and incident reporting software
- CPR and first aid certification, with AED training strongly preferred by Illinois employers
- Strong written and verbal communication skills for incident documentation and stakeholder reporting
- Ability to pass a background investigation and drug screening required by Illinois licensing regulations
Security Specialist Jobs in Illinois: Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a security specialist in Illinois?
To work as a security specialist in Illinois, you must obtain a Permanent Employee Registration Card (PERC) through the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, which requires passing a background check and completing a state-approved training program. Most positions also require a high school diploma or equivalent, though roles in corporate or healthcare security often prefer an associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, security management, or a related field. Certifications such as the Certified Protection Professional strengthen candidacy significantly.
How much do security specialists make in Illinois?
Security specialists in Illinois earn a median of about $82,070 a year, based on May 2025 Bureau of Labor Statistics wage data, ranging from around $46,360 for the lowest 10% to over $137,100 for the top 10%. Pay rises with experience, specialty, and employer.
Which companies hire security specialists in Illinois?
Employers hiring security specialists in Illinois right now include Target, Zen Leaf, and Walgreens, based on current listings on Migrate Mate as of October 2026. Illinois's concentration of Fortune 500 headquarters, major hospital networks, and financial institutions in the Chicago metro generates particularly steady demand for experienced security professionals.
Which Illinois cities have the most security specialist jobs?
The cities with the most security specialist openings in Illinois are Chicago, Aurora, and Peoria. Chicago drives the majority of listings given its density of corporate campuses, healthcare systems, and transportation infrastructure, while suburban hubs like Naperville and Schaumburg attract openings from large technology and insurance employers headquartered along the I-88 corridor.
Are there remote security specialist jobs in Illinois?
Yes, but they're limited. The security specialist role typically involves on-site presence for physical security oversight, access control, and incident response, which makes fully remote work uncommon. About 50% of security specialist openings tied to Illinois are remote or hybrid as of October 2026, and those tend to be in program coordination, policy development, or security awareness training rather than hands-on operational roles.
How can I get hired as a security specialist in Illinois with little or no experience?
The most realistic entry path is obtaining your Illinois PERC and applying for security officer or security associate roles at large Illinois employers such as healthcare systems like Northwestern Medicine or retail and logistics operations in the Chicago metro, then building toward a specialist title. Advocate Health Care and several large property management firms in Chicago run structured programs that move security officers into specialist tracks. A Certified Protection Officer credential and a clean background check give candidates without a degree a meaningful edge in the Illinois market.
Where can I find and apply to security specialist jobs in Illinois?
You can find and apply to security specialist jobs in Illinois on Migrate Mate, which lists current Illinois openings from employers actively hiring. Search the available roles, find the ones that match your experience and location, and apply directly to each employer through the listing.
See All 49 Security Specialist Jobs in Illinois
Find roles in Illinois that match your experience and apply in just a few clicks.
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