Physical Security Design Manager

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Physical Security Design Manager

Company: EXANTE360 INC

Location: Newport Beach, California, United States

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Physical Security Design & Management (Mission Critical Data Centers)

Date Posted: September 23, 2026

Experience Level: 5-10 Years (Mid-Senior Level)

Remote Status: Remote (with onsite requirements)

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and manage the end-to-end project lifecycle for mission-critical data center physical security designs, ensuring successful delivery from kickoff to closeout.

• Drive meticulous attention to detail in security design deliverables, focusing on schedule, scope, and quality assurance for all project phases.

• Leverage AI and automation tools to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and collaboration within security design workflows and project execution.

• Act as a key subject matter expert, coordinating with multi-disciplinary teams and external stakeholders to integrate security systems seamlessly into complex projects.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned within the specialized field of mission-critical data center physical security, requiring a deep understanding of both security design principles and the unique demands of data center environments. The emphasis on AI and automation suggests a forward-thinking company culture looking for innovative approaches to traditional design and project management processes.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Take full ownership of assigned projects from internal handoff through final closeout, ensuring successful delivery across all phases of the project lifecycle.

• Manage the design, quality-assurance, construction administration, and closeout phases of each assigned project, including conducting thorough cross-discipline design reviews.

• Lead and actively participate in client meetings (both virtual and onsite) to align project requirements, manage expectations, and evolve system design criteria.

• Conduct comprehensive onsite field surveys and site assessments to verify existing conditions and ensure construction adheres to design documents and specifications.

• Lead the preparation of high-quality contract documents, including detailed Revit drawings and CSI-format specifications for physical security systems.

• Develop, maintain, and meticulously track project schedules and deliverables to ensure on-time, accurate, and high-quality execution.

• Build and manage project budgets, monitor financial performance, and track design costs using project accounting and management tools.

• Collaborate closely with internal design teams (e.g., ICT, electrical, architectural) and external stakeholders (e.g., clients, contractors) to coordinate and integrate security system designs into the overall project.

• Prepare detailed assessment reports that include clear, actionable recommendations and solutions for physical security challenges.

• Identify scope changes, prepare proposals for additional services, and secure client authorization when required, maintaining project profitability and scope control.

• Utilize Bluebeam Revu extensively for annotating floor plans, creating single-line diagrams, elevations, and other project-specific design details.

• Support construction administration activities, including timely RFI responses, thorough submittal reviews, site visits, punch walks, acceptance testing, and written field observation reports.

• Perform rigorous QA/QC reviews of team deliverables to ensure accuracy, consistency, and compliance with internal and external standards.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a blend of technical design leadership, project management, and client-facing engagement. The emphasis on "mission-critical data center security" and specific tools like Bluebeam Revu indicates a need for specialized expertise in this sector, moving beyond general physical security roles.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Associate degree or Bachelor's degree in an engineering-related field is preferred. Experience:

• 5-7 years of previous low voltage, ICT, or security design experience, specifically applying this expertise within typical A/E/C (Architecture/Engineering/Construction) industry design packages.

• Demonstrated experience using AI, automation, data analytics, or other emerging technologies to improve efficiency, decision-making, collaboration, or business outcomes in a professional context. Required Skills:

• Client-focused approach with a strong commitment to delivering value and exceptional customer service.

• Expertise in mission-critical data center physical security concepts and methodologies.

• Proficiency in using Bluebeam Revu, Smartsheet, and MS Office Suite as core software programs for design and project management.

• Familiarity with Revit and BIM360 modeling tools for integrated design and collaboration.

• Comprehension of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and recognition of the importance of coordinating infrastructure and other disciplines within the model.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical information clearly.

• Strong sense of ownership, responsibility, and versatility in a fast-paced, dynamic, and collaborative environment.

• Ability to manage multiple concurrent assignments effectively without compromising quality. Preferred Skills:

• Deep knowledge of ICD-705 standards.

• General knowledge of NEC, NFPA, EIA/TIA, and/or BICSI standards.

• Experience working as an embedded subject matter expert in related cross-discipline teams, including gates, fencing, electrical circuiting, cable pathway design, and architectural door hardware.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for AI/automation experience is a significant differentiator, positioning this role as forward-thinking. The blend of specific software (Bluebeam, Revit, BIM360) and industry standards (ICD-705, NEC, NFPA) points to a need for a technically proficient candidate with practical application experience in data center environments.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Demonstrate a strong track record of successfully managed physical security design projects, particularly within mission-critical environments.

• Showcase examples of process optimization initiatives, highlighting how workflows were improved for efficiency, accuracy, or cost savings.

• Include case studies detailing system implementations, focusing on the integration of various security technologies (e.g., access control, video surveillance, intrusion detection).

• Present evidence of ROI or measurable business impact achieved through implemented security designs or process improvements. Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of clear and concise design documentation, including detailed specifications, drawings (Revit), and scope documents created during the workflow design and optimization phase.

• Illustrate methods used for implementing and automating security design processes, potentially including templates, checklists, or system integration strategies.

• Showcase how performance is measured and analyzed post-implementation, including metrics for system effectiveness, project delivery, and client satisfaction.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role focused on design management and project execution, a portfolio is critical. It should not only display technical design capabilities but also project management acumen, process improvement methodologies, and the ability to quantify impact, aligning with the company's emphasis on "delivering exceptional results" and "improving lives through relationships."

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $110,000 - $154,000 per year.

Benefits:

• 401(k) plan with company matching contributions.

• Comprehensive dental insurance coverage.

• Employee assistance program (EAP) for confidential support.

• Robust health insurance plans.

• Life insurance policies to provide financial security.

• Generous paid time off (PTO) for work-life balance.

• Professional development assistance to support continued education and skill enhancement.

• Referral program to reward employees for bringing in new talent.

• Vision insurance coverage.

• Long-term disability insurance to protect income in case of extended absence.

Working Hours: 40 hours per week (standard full-time).

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range of $110,000 - $154,000 annually for a Physical Security Design Manager in Newport Beach, CA, is competitive for mid-to-senior level roles in specialized engineering and design fields, particularly within the tech-adjacent data center industry. This range aligns with the cost of living in Southern California and the required expertise. The benefit package is comprehensive, offering strong support for employee well-being and professional growth, which is attractive for operations-focused roles that often require significant dedication.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Technology Design and Consulting, specializing in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Security Systems. Exante360 operates across diverse market sectors including healthcare, education, data centers, critical infrastructure, corporate, government, biotech, and transportation.

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the company's founding in 2013 and successful completion of "thousands of technology design projects" suggests a growing, established firm, likely falling into the medium-sized business category (50-250 employees), which often offers a balance of structured processes and agility.

Founded: 2013. This indicates a relatively young but experienced company, likely with a dynamic and evolving culture that embraces innovation.

Team Structure:

• The operations and design teams are likely structured around project delivery, with specialized expertise in various low-voltage systems (ICT, security, AV, fire alarm, etc.). The Physical Security Design Manager will likely be part of a broader engineering or design department.

• Reporting structure is expected to be hierarchical, with the Design Manager reporting to a Director or VP of Engineering/Design, and potentially overseeing junior designers or project coordinators.

• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, as indicated by the need to integrate security designs with ICT, electrical, and architectural disciplines, as well as working with project management and construction administration teams. Methodology:

• Exante360 emphasizes a data-driven approach, utilizing "certified professionals" and focusing on delivering "Intended Results" through consulting, design, and project management.

• Workflow planning and optimization are central to their service offering, ensuring projects are executed efficiently and effectively.

• The company actively promotes AI and digital transformation, suggesting a methodology that incorporates modern tools and automated processes to enhance project delivery and client value.

Company Website: https://www.exante360.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: The company's focus on "improving lives through relationships" and "connecting people to solutions" alongside its technical expertise suggests a culture that values both strong interpersonal skills and technical proficiency. The emphasis on AI and digital transformation is a key differentiator for potential candidates.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role is at a Mid-Senior to Senior level within the operations and design management sphere. It requires significant technical expertise in physical security design, coupled with robust project management capabilities. The scope includes managing complex projects, budgets, and cross-functional teams, indicating a leadership position with substantial responsibility.

Reporting Structure: The Physical Security Design Manager will likely report to a Director of Engineering, VP of Operations, or a similar senior leadership role within the technical design division. They will be expected to collaborate closely with Project Managers, other Design Discipline Leads (e.g., ICT, Electrical), and potentially directly with clients.

Operations Impact: The role has a direct impact on the successful and secure operation of mission-critical data centers. By ensuring robust physical security designs, the manager contributes to operational uptime, data integrity, and client confidence, which are paramount in the data center industry. Their work directly influences project success, client satisfaction, and the company's reputation for delivering high-quality, reliable solutions.

Growth Opportunities:

• Specialization Advancement: Potential to become a lead subject matter expert in mission-critical data center security, potentially managing larger or more complex projects, or developing specialized security consulting services.

• Leadership Development: Opportunity to move into higher management roles, such as Director of Security Design, VP of Operations, or lead a dedicated security design team.

• Skill Expansion: Continuous learning and application of AI/automation in design processes, potentially leading to roles focused on technology integration or digital transformation within the company's operations.

• Professional Certifications: Support for obtaining advanced certifications relevant to data center security, project management, or emerging technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Physical Security Design Manager in this context is strong, offering progression from technical leadership to broader management roles. The company's stated commitment to professional growth and prioritizing education goals directly supports career advancement for individuals in this position.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The job is listed as "Remote OK" with a primary legal address in Newport Beach, CA. However, the responsibilities clearly indicate a need for "onsite field surveys and site assessments" and "client meetings (both virtual and onsite)," suggesting a hybrid or flexible remote model that requires periodic travel to project sites and client locations.

Office Location(s): The primary listed location is Newport Beach, CA. Given the remote nature, the company likely supports employees working from various locations, but may have designated hubs or require proximity to major project sites for in-person engagements.

Workspace Context:

• The remote work environment is described as "built on intentional connection," implying structured virtual collaboration tools and practices to foster team cohesion despite geographical distribution.

• Operations professionals will have access to industry-standard design and project management software, including Bluebeam Revu, Revit, BIM360, and Smartsheet, supporting efficient workflow and collaboration.

• Opportunities for interaction with the operations team and other design disciplines will occur through scheduled virtual meetings, project calls, and potentially occasional in-person team gatherings or site visits.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is 40 hours per week. While the role is remote, there's an expectation of availability during core business hours for team collaboration and client interactions, with flexibility often afforded around project deadlines and personal needs, as long as work is delivered effectively.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Remote OK" status, combined with onsite requirements, signifies a flexible work model. Candidates should be prepared for travel and understand that "remote" in this context means the primary workspace is not a fixed office, but requires self-discipline and strong communication skills to manage projects effectively across distances.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess experience, technical skills (especially in Bluebeam, Revit, and data center security), and alignment with the AI/automation requirement.

• Technical Interview: This stage will likely involve in-depth questions about your experience with physical security design for mission-critical data centers, project management methodologies, and specific software proficiencies. Expect scenario-based questions related to design challenges, client management, and problem-solving.

• Portfolio Presentation: You will likely be asked to present a selection of your best work, focusing on 2-3 key projects that demonstrate your expertise in design, project lifecycle management, budget control, and the application of technology or process improvements.

• Behavioral/Cultural Fit Interview: This interview will assess your alignment with Exante360's core values (ownership, customer service, excellence, versatility, responsibility) and your ability to thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative, AI-forward environment. Questions may explore how you handle pressure, manage multiple tasks, and collaborate with diverse teams.

• Final Interview: Potentially with senior leadership, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership potential, and overall fit with the company's vision.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select projects that best showcase your expertise in mission-critical data center security, project management, and any instances of applying AI/automation or process improvements.

• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the scope, your role, the challenges faced, the solutions implemented, and most importantly, the quantifiable results (e.g., cost savings, schedule adherence, efficiency gains, security improvements).

• Showcase Process: Highlight your approach to design, coordination, quality assurance, and construction administration. Demonstrate your ability to document processes and specifications effectively.

• Highlight Tech Proficiency: Explicitly mention and, if possible, demonstrate your skills with Bluebeam Revu, Revit, BIM360, and any AI/automation tools used.

Challenge Preparation:

• Be prepared for potential case studies or technical exercises that simulate real-world challenges, such as designing a security system for a specific data center scenario, responding to an RFI, or outlining a project plan for a complex integration.

• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically, especially when discussing technical solutions or project management strategies.

• Be ready to discuss how you would integrate AI or automation into a specific design or project management task to improve outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is designed to assess a candidate's technical depth, project management acumen, and adaptability to new technologies. A strong portfolio that highlights measurable results and process improvements will be a significant advantage.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Bluebeam Revu: Essential for annotating floor plans, creating single-line diagrams, elevations, and other project-specific design details. Expect proficiency in markups, document comparison, and collaboration features.

• Revit: Used for creating detailed 3D models and construction documents. Familiarity with architectural and MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing) integration is key.

• BIM360 (Autodesk Construction Cloud): For collaborative BIM workflows, document management, and project coordination.

• MS Office Suite: Standard for reporting, documentation, and communication (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).

• Smartsheet: A project management and collaboration tool used for tracking schedules, deliverables, and managing project workflows.

Analytics & Reporting:

• While not explicitly listed, expect to use Excel for data analysis and potentially leverage reporting features within Smartsheet or project management software.

• The company's AI-forward approach may involve custom dashboards or analytics tools for project performance and financial tracking. CRM & Automation:

• No specific CRM is listed, but familiarity with project management software that handles client communication and task tracking is implied.

• The emphasis on AI and automation suggests potential use of workflow automation tools within project management or design processes, though specific tools are not named.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in Bluebeam Revu and Revit is critical, as these are core tools for design documentation. Experience with BIM360 and Smartsheet will streamline project collaboration and management. The mention of AI and automation indicates a broader expectation for candidates to be adaptable and proactive in leveraging technology.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Ownership: Taking full responsibility for projects and deliverables, from start to finish. This translates to proactive problem-solving and accountability for outcomes.

• Customer Service: A strong commitment to delivering value and meeting client needs, fostering strong relationships through clear communication and reliable execution.

• Excellence: Striving for high-quality results in all aspects of work, from design accuracy to project delivery and client satisfaction.

• Versatility: The ability to adapt to changing project requirements, new technologies, and diverse market sectors, handling multiple assignments effectively.

• Responsibility: Upholding a high standard of ethical conduct and commitment to project success and company goals.

• AI-Forward Mindset: Embracing and actively integrating artificial intelligence and automation into workflows to enhance efficiency, decision-making, and innovation.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: A collaborative approach that involves working closely with various internal design disciplines (ICT, electrical, architectural) and external stakeholders to ensure seamless project execution.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging feedback exchange and continuous improvement of design and project management processes.

• Knowledge Sharing: Practices that promote sharing expertise and best practices across teams, especially regarding new technologies like AI and automation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture appears to be a blend of traditional engineering values (ownership, excellence) with a modern, forward-thinking approach that embraces AI and digital transformation. Candidates who are self-starters, team-oriented, and technologically curious will likely thrive.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complex Project Integration: Coordinating diverse security systems (access control, video, intrusion) with other building systems (ICT, electrical, architectural) in mission-critical data centers, demanding meticulous attention to detail and cross-discipline communication.

• Evolving Technology Landscape: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in physical security technology, AI-driven security solutions, and BIM/digitalization tools, requiring continuous learning and adaptation.

• Remote Collaboration Management: Effectively managing project timelines, team coordination, and client communication in a distributed, remote-first environment, ensuring seamless workflow despite geographical separation.

• Balancing Scope, Schedule, and Budget: The inherent challenge of delivering high-quality security designs within strict project constraints, requiring strong project management and negotiation skills.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in specific security domains, project management methodologies, or advanced design software.

• Industry Conference & Certification Participation: Support for attending relevant industry events (e.g., security expos, data center conferences) and pursuing certifications (e.g., CPP, PSP, data center-specific certifications).

• Operations Mentorship & Leadership: Potential for mentorship from senior leaders and pathways to develop leadership skills, progressing into roles with greater strategic influence and team management responsibilities.

• AI/Automation Integration: Hands-on experience and training in applying AI and automation tools to design and project management processes, positioning the candidate at the forefront of industry innovation.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role presents opportunities to tackle complex, cutting-edge projects in a high-demand sector. The company's emphasis on professional growth and AI integration provides a clear path for career advancement and skill development.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Operations Strategy: "Describe a time you managed a complex physical security design project for a mission-critical facility. What were the key challenges, and how did you ensure successful integration of all security components and stakeholder alignment?" (Focus on process, methodology, and problem-solving).

• Collaboration & Stakeholder Management: "How do you approach coordinating with non-security disciplines (e.g., ICT, electrical, architectural) and external clients to ensure security design requirements are met without compromising other project aspects?" (Highlight communication, negotiation, and cross-functional teamwork).

• Problem-Solving & Efficiency: "Walk me through a situation where you identified an inefficiency in a design or project management process. What steps did you take to address it, and what was the outcome? How might you apply AI or automation to solve similar issues?" (Demonstrate analytical skills, initiative, and tech-savviness).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "What interests you about Exante360's mission and our focus on AI-forward initiatives?" (Research the company's values and recent developments).

• "How do you see yourself contributing to our culture of ownership, customer service, and excellence, particularly in a remote-first environment?" (Reflect on your work style and how it aligns with their stated values).

• "How do you measure the success and impact of your security design projects beyond just technical completion?" (Prepare to discuss metrics, ROI, and client satisfaction). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, clearly define the problem/objective, your specific role and actions, the solutions implemented (highlighting design choices and technologies), and the measurable results.

• Quantify Everything: Use data to support your claims – e.g., "Reduced design review time by 15% through X process," "Managed a $Y million project budget, delivering Z% under budget," "Integrated access control and video surveillance systems, improving threat detection efficiency by X%."

• Showcase Tech Application: Explicitly demonstrate your proficiency with Bluebeam Revu, Revit, BIM360, and any AI/automation tools you've used. If possible, show examples of complex drawings or model integrations.

• Engage and Explain: Be prepared to answer detailed questions about your design choices, project management decisions, and how you handled challenges. Practice explaining technical concepts clearly and concisely.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not only technical expertise but also strong project management skills, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and an understanding of how to leverage technology like AI to drive efficiency and better outcomes in physical security design.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Physical Security Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the Paycom platform.

• Customize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your 5-7 years of experience in low voltage/ICT/security design, specifically mentioning mission-critical data center environments. Emphasize your proficiency with Bluebeam Revu, Revit, BIM360, and Smartsheet. Crucially, detail any experience using AI, automation, or data analytics to improve processes or outcomes.

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key projects that best exemplify your skills in physical security design management for data centers. Focus on quantifiable achievements, your role in process improvement, and successful system integrations. Be ready to present this portfolio during the interview process.

• Research Exante360: Familiarize yourself with the company's mission, core values, market sectors, and their stated commitment to AI and digital transformation. Understand their approach to client relationships and project delivery.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral and situational questions by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result), focusing on your experience with complex projects, cross-functional collaboration, and problem-solving. Practice articulating your technical expertise and your approach to project management.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.