Physical Security Systems Designer
South Western Communications, Inc.

South Western Communications

South Western Communications, SWC, is one trusted source for communication, physical security and life safety solutions to meet the needs of Healthcare, Education, Detention and Commercial customers. We utilize a consultative approach to conduct an in-depth needs analysis, enabling our customers to fulfill their mission critical processes. We continuously research and select only the best-in class product collection. We utilize these products to create an integrated solution with your goals and needs in mind, ensuring satisfaction and flawless integration. At SWC, we strive to exceed your expectations and invest the time and resources into every job because we care about our customers.


Physical Security Systems Designer

Reports To: Director of Engineering | Type: Salaried, Exempt, Full Benefits including 401(k)

Primary Role

This is a design ownership role, not a support position. You will take commercial physical security system projects from RFP through install-ready drawing packages: access control, CCTV, and intrusion, and be accountable for every deliverable in between.

You will read and cross-reference door hardware schedules against your security drawings, catch conflicts before submittal, interpret incomplete RFPs, build assumptions logs, manage RFI processes, and produce documentation that installers can actually build from. High-output team, real deadlines, full technical accountability. The ability to step up and provide senior-level expertise when the situation demands is expected.

Responsibilities

• Produce install-ready drawing packages: shop drawings, door schedules, wiring diagrams, panel schedules, pathway drawings, and device elevations, using AutoCAD full version (2024 or newer).
• Interpret RFPs, identify scope gaps, manage RFI process, and document design assumptions when specs are incomplete or ambiguous.
• Cross-reference architectural door hardware schedules against security drawings; resolve conflicts before submittal.
• Coordinate with door hardware consultants, electrical contractors, and elevator contractors on integration scope and trade boundaries.
• Produce sheet-level shop drawings and submittals for EC/GC to submit and electrical engineers to approve.
• Perform material takeoffs using Bluebeam to accurately quantify devices, cabling, conduit, and hardware for estimating and procurement.
• Support pre- and post-sales engineering; provide technical guidance to Sales and project teams.
• Assist with training internal technical and sales staff on new products and systems.
• Maintain knowledge of current and emerging technologies; participate in professional development.
• Manage a full project queue across simultaneous deadlines without losing track.

Qualifications

Required:

• 5+ years producing construction drawings in AutoCAD full version (2024 or newer required); Revit, AutoCAD MEP, LSP Routines, and Dynamic Block usage and creation are a plus.
• Ability to perform material takeoffs using Bluebeam to accurately quantify devices, cabling, conduit, and hardware for estimating and procurement.
• Commercial access control design experience end-to-end, from schematic through install-ready package.
• Working knowledge of electrified door hardware: electric strikes, mag locks, fail-safe/fail-secure logic, power transfer hinges, DPS, and REX devices. Ability to read and interpret a door hardware schedule.
• Access control panel architecture: controller placement, home run vs. daisy chain topology, RS-485 limits, power supply sizing.
• Credential technologies: HID, Wiegand, OSDP, iCLASS, SEOS.
• Experience producing submittals, RFI logs, and as-built documentation.
• NFPA 101 mag lock release requirements and AHJ permitting process.
• Platform experience: Avigilon, Lenel, DMP, Hanwha, Identicard, Aiphone, Matrix.
• Strong project management and organizational skills; able to carry a full project queue without losing track.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Self-directed urgency, you do not need to be chased to hit a deadline.
• Proficiency with MS Office suite.

Preferred:

• Integrator background with field or project coordination experience before moving into design.
• Estimating exposure on total systems projects: access control, CCTV, intrusion. Designers who understand cost build differently.
• Elevator integration experience: cab control, dispatch coordination, trade scope negotiation.
• Platform certifications: Avigilon, Lenel, DMP, Hanwha, Identicard, Aiphone, Matrix.
• PSP (ASIS), NICET, or equivalent. Bachelor's degree in EE, EET, or related field, or equivalent field experience.

Accountability

Accountable to the Director of Engineering, with secondary accountability to management, employees, and customers.

Additional

Some out-of-town travel required. Ability to stand, walk, climb, lift, and work in moderate noise environments. Primarily indoor work with occasional outdoor activities subject to seasonal temperature fluctuations.


Management has the right to revise this description at any time. The job description is not a contract for employment, and either you or the employer may terminate employment at any time, for any reason as outlined in the employee manual or other written agreement.

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