Technology Specialist Jobs in Illinois

INTRODUCTION

The Technology Specialist reports directly to the Fire & Security Lead and is responsible for the oversight, maintenance, and performance of fire protection systems and electronic security technologies within a manufacturing environment. This role ensures the reliability and effectiveness of access control, CCTV, visitor management, and fire alarm systems while collaborating closely with Security Systems Integration, Fire Engineering, Plant Engineering, and external vendors.

The Technology Specialist provides technical expertise, performs system troubleshooting, manages inspection and compliance documentation, and supports new construction projects, renovations, and system acceptance testing. This role also serves as a key resource for plant-related requests involving fire and security system modifications, while training and mentoring site personnel. Strong technical proficiency, independent problem-solving skills, and the ability to respond to after-hours emergencies are essential.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

What you'll do:

• Oversee the operation and functionality of site fire protection and security systems, including access control, CCTV, visitor management platforms, and related technologies.
• Partner with Systems Service & Integration and Fire Engineering to ensure system reliability and compliance.
• Review and monitor work performed by security personnel and third-party fire/security vendors for quality and adherence to standards.
• Train, mentor, and support site-level security and fire personnel to enhance technical capability and operational effectiveness.
• Coordinate requisitions and purchase orders for fire system repairs, inspections, and compliance-related activities.
• Collaborate with Plant Engineering to support project planning, repairs, and funding initiatives.
• Submit and manage service requests for fire and security systems and track resolution progress.
• Troubleshoot system malfunctions involving access control, fire alarms, and related infrastructure.
• Manage mechanical keying systems, including ordering and tracking keys and lock cores.
• Review fire inspection reports and maintenance documentation to ensure deficiencies are promptly corrected and properly recorded in impairment tracking systems.
• Evaluate and support site hot work programs and procedures to ensure compliance with fire safety standards.
• Inspect special hazard fire suppression systems to verify operational readiness.
• Assist in fire incident investigations in partnership with Fire Engineering and review incident reports for accuracy and corrective actions.
• Support construction and renovation projects to ensure compliance with company fire protection and security standards.
• Conduct acceptance testing of newly installed fire protection and security systems.
• Serve as the initial review point for plant requests related to fire and security equipment installations.
• Provide on-call support outside regular business hours to respond to emergency incidents.
• Perform physically demanding tasks in industrial environments, including extended standing/walking, climbing ladders, accessing confined or elevated spaces, and lifting equipment up to 50 lbs.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN

• Application of fire protection and security systems within an automotive manufacturing environment.
• Integration of security technologies to protect people, assets, and operational continuity.
• Fire protection strategies for high-hazard manufacturing processes.
• Acceptance testing procedures for fire pumps, sprinkler systems, and water supply components.
• Cross-functional collaboration with corporate teams, plant operations, and external vendors.

WHAT THIS ROLE WILL PREPARE YOU FOR

• Exposure to cross-functional collaboration across North American operations.
• Development of leadership and management capabilities.
• Advancement into roles with increased responsibility in security, fire protection, or operational leadership.
• Opportunities to serve as a subject matter expert in fire and security systems.

COMPENSATION

• Salary $81,800 to $122,800, pay will depend on several factors including experience and location of position

BASIC QUALIFICATIONS

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 2 years of experience with security technologies, including access control, CCTV, and/or fire alarm systems.
• Experience working in a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize tasks, solve problems independently, and work with minimal supervision.
• Experience in training, coaching, and mentoring personnel.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including SharePoint.
• Strong written, verbal, and presentation communication skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Associate's degree in Fire Science or a related field.
• Professional certifications such as PMP (Project Management Professional) or PSP (Physical Security Professional).
• Avigilon certifications (Operator, Administrator, and Analytics).
• Advanced knowledge of access control and CCTV systems, including troubleshooting and system optimization.
• Familiarity with NFPA standards applicable to industrial or automotive environments.
• Knowledge of International Building Code (IBC) and International Fire Code (IFC).
• Experience maintaining fire protection and security systems during construction or demolition projects.
• Background in project or service management.
• Experience performing acceptance testing for fire pumps, sprinkler systems, and water supply components.
• Experience in automotive manufacturing environments.