Lead Security Engineer

Overview

We are looking for a seasoned Lead Engineer specializing in electronic security systems to manage the operation, reliability, and integration of airport security technologies. This role requires a technical expert well-versed in video surveillance, access control, video analytics, and security network systems, with strong leadership skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with Saudi governmental and airport security bodies.

Key Duties

• Administer and uphold enterprise security platforms such as Milestone XProtect VMS, Genetec Security Center, Lenel OnGuard access control, and Ipsotek VISuite analytics.
• Guarantee smooth interoperability between CCTV, access controls, intrusion detection systems, intercoms, and the airport command center.
• Handle configuration, firmware updates, licensing, equipment registries, and vendor support for all security systems.
• Design, maintain, and troubleshoot security networks, managing VLANs, multicast traffic, quality of service, bandwidth allocation, and redundancy protocols.
• Supervise hardware components including switches, fiber-optics, Power over Ethernet capabilities, IP addressing schemes, and optimize network performance using advanced diagnostic tools like Wireshark.
• Collaborate with the airport IT/ICT departments focusing on cyber security, network hardening, and segregation of IT/OT environments.
• Manage critical systems such as servers, virtualization, data storage, backups, and disaster recovery plans.
• Lead a team of engineers and technicians working in shifts around the clock, coordinating task allocations, escalation processes, and quality control during shift transitions.
• Provide expert technical support, root cause problem analysis, and corrective action planning while fostering team capability development through OEM-led training and certification.
• Ensure preventive and corrective maintenance routines are executed promptly, overseeing surveillance cameras, access control devices, server stability, storage capacities, and database upkeep.
• Oversee adherence to service level agreements, spare parts management, vendor support, and return merchandise authorization processes.
• Implement strict change management controls encompassing approval workflows, rollback strategies, and documentation updates.
• Serve as the principal Arabic-speaking technical liaison with government entities such as Jawazat for systems integration connected to passport control and e-gates.
• Work with the Ministry of Interior and airport authorities for CCTV footage requests, evidence management, incident inquiry, and regulatory compliance.
• Coordinate with the Royal Saudi Air Force for access permits, security clearances, escorts, and authorizations relating to restricted and military-controlled zones.
• Prepare and deliver detailed technical reports, incident analyses, and system briefings in both Arabic and English languages.
• Administer personnel security measures including badge issuance, clearances, and permits for accessing restricted zones.
• Monitor key performance indicators such as system uptime, recording integrity, video retention policies, access system efficiency, and alarm response metrics.
• Identify and analyze recurring faults, optimize video analytics to reduce false alarms, and enhance metrics like mean time to repair (MTTR).
• Generate comprehensive weekly and monthly system performance and maintenance reports.
• Maintain critical technical documentation including as-built drawings, camera deployment maps, IP and port allocation tables, rack configurations, and overall system architecture.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, environment protocols, including permit-to-work, electrical safety, and working-at-height regulations.

Candidate Profile

• Must hold a Bachelor's degree in Electrical, Electronics, Computer Engineering, or a related field.
• Possess at least 6 years' experience working with electronic security systems, including a minimum of 2 years in a leadership capacity.
• Experience in airport, critical infrastructure, or governmental facility environments is strongly preferred.
• Holds OEM certifications in at least two of the following: Milestone, Genetec, Lenel, Ipsotek.
• Must have a CCNA or an advanced networking certification.
• Fluent in both Arabic and English (written and verbal communication).
• Eligibility to obtain Saudi government security clearance and access permits for restricted airport areas is mandatory.