Electronic Security Design Engineer

The Electronic Security Design Engineer 1 is responsible for designing integrated electronic security systems—including access control, video surveillance (CCTV), intrusion detection, intercoms, and at times, Physical Security Information Management (PSIM) or Video Management Systems (VMS). This role organizes design teams, trade partners, processes, and technology for projects using design-build, design-assist, or alternative delivery methods. Proactive management ensures coordinated documents that align with project goals, all while upholding JE Dunn’s strategy, vision, and values.

• Autonomy & Decision Making: Makes decisions within defined authority and consults with a supervisor on matters beyond those limits.
• Career Path: Promotion potential to Design Manager 2.

DESIGN MANAGEMENT FAMILY – CORE

• Interpret design-build RFPs and develop work plans by collaborating with preconstruction, operations, and stakeholders.
• Understand client business needs and create conceptual plans, elevations, and 3D models for presentations and win strategies.
• Review bridging documents for RFP compliance, including codes and criteria to meet technical and design requirements.
• Support early-phase due diligence with clients and stakeholders, ensuring studies and permitting requirements are included in design documents.
• Manage outside design consultants to meet technical and schedule requirements.
• Lead design review processes with the design team and clients, maintain schedules, and identify project risks and opportunities.
• Apply design experience to solve project-specific challenges while monitoring design schedules, quality control, and document delivery.
• Generate cost savings and value-added solutions during the design phase.
• Monitor and control costs of design partners and consultants.
• Review designs and provide quality control comments to ensure program specifications and life-safety requirements are met.
• Coordinate packaging strategies for design documents with the project team.
• Manage project documentation, including proposals, drawings, specifications, reports, calculations, and shop drawings using 2D/3D file management systems.
• Develop sketches and plans to assist preconstruction with pricing conceptual ideas; coordinate with VDC team as needed.
• Provide technical design guidance throughout the construction process.
• Offer design engineering support throughout the project lifecycle: proposal, site survey, engineering, equipment selection, permitting, training, and construction.
• Understand project budgets and ensure design aligns with contractual details.

• Create detailed designs and device layouts using CAD/Revit; develop system schematics, riser diagrams, and network topologies for security systems.
• Write Division specifications, bills of materials (BOM), and scope-of-work documents for integrators or contractors.
• Engineer subsystem integration (access, video, intrusion, intercom) via IP networks, APIs, or management platforms.
• Conduct field walks, evaluate existing systems, and assess coverage, cabling paths, and environmental conditions.
• Coordinate with architects, electrical engineers, IT teams, and contractors to ensure infrastructure alignment.
• Oversee or verify installation quality, perform acceptance testing, and validate system performance per design intent.
• Stay current on new platforms (Genetec, LenelS2, Avigilon, Axis, Milestone, Gallagher, etc.) and evaluate suitability for different environments (campus, data center, airport, etc.).
• Maintain deep understanding of low-voltage design, IP networks, PoE power budgets, camera bandwidth, and data storage sizing.

• Ability to perform work accurately and completely, and in a timely manner
• Communication skills, verbal and written – Intermediate
• Ability to conduct effective presentations
• Proficiency in MS Office – Intermediate
• Thorough knowledge of project processes and how each supports the successful completion of a project
• Ability to build relationships and collaborate within a team, internally and externally
• Ability to apply Lean process and philosophy – Intermediate
• Proficiency with AutoCAD, Revit and/or Google SketchUp
• Experience with building design codes and material specific standards
• Conversant with linked design disciplines, Geotechnical/Civil, Architecture, Building Façade, Structural, MEP, Data/Communications, Vertical Transportation, Acoustics, and Fire and Life Safety, etc.
• Ability to think in a highly structured manner along all design disciplines while also having creativity to develop specialized solutions by anticipating potential challenges
• Ability to manage budget and schedule, maximize profitability and generate future work through building relationships
• Ability to build relationships with team members that transcend a project

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture, engineering, or related field (preferred)
• Equivalent experience in security systems integration/design will be considered
• CTS-D certification (preferred)

• 5+ years design and/or construction management experience (Preferred)
• Cross-functional knowledge of the key engineering disciplines (Architectural, Structural, MEP) and relevant trades

• Preferred Qualifications

  • PSP (ASIS Physical Security Professional)
  • BICSI Technician or RCDD
  • Communications cabling design (Division )
  • Manufacturer certifications (Genetec, Lenel, Milestone, Axis, etc.)

The benefits package aligned to this position is Professional Non-Union. Please click the link below for more details.

Why Work at Aptitude

Being a part of the Aptitude team offers a unique combination of the excitement of contributing to the growth of an innovative start-up, yet also backed by the stability of a nearly -year-old leader in the construction industry. We take pride in hiring smart, capable team players who are subject matter experts in a wide variety of technology systems and who enjoy the challenge of complex, yet rewarding projects. What’s more, we enjoy giving back to our communities, and we like to have fun!

About Aptitude

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Nearest Major Market: Kansas City