Armed School Security Officer

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL FOR BLIND CHILDREN•Pittsburgh, PA

1d•$18 - $35•Onsite

About The Position

Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is a private educational institution in Oakland, Pittsburgh, serving approximately 200 enrolled students from 80–85 school districts across western Pennsylvania. It also provides early intervention and outreach services to visually impaired students. The Armed School Security Officer helps ensure the safety and welfare of students, faculty, staff, and the school grounds. Working with the Director of Campus Safety and school administrators, the officer helps maintain a safe, supportive environment conducive to learning. Duties include managing building access, patrolling designated areas, responding to emergencies, monitoring security systems, documenting incidents, supporting safety planning and training, assisting with traffic and parking, and building positive relationships with the school community. The position may involve statutory law enforcement authority if the officer is classified as a School Police Officer. The position is non-exempt and scheduled for 205 days per year, Sundays through Thursdays, 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Part-time work may be available. Compensation is $18–$35 per hour, based on certifications and experience.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
Valid Pennsylvania driver’s license and clean driving record.
Satisfy background-check requirements under Sections 111 and 111.1 of the Public School Code and 23 Pa.C.S. § 6344.
At least five years of police or security experience.
All School Security Personnel must successfully complete the Basic School Resource Officer Course offered by the National Association of School Resource Officers, or an equivalent course approved by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency.
All School Security Personnel must successfully complete annual qualification on a police firearms course with any firearms authorized for use.
Maintain current first aid and CPR/AED certification issued by the American Red Cross, American Heart Association, Department of Health, or another agency approved by the Department of Health.
Ability to perform physical duties such as lifting, running, and standing for extended periods.
Ability to read and interpret general business periodicals, professional journals, technical procedures, and governmental regulations.
Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedural manuals and to present information and respond to questions effectively.
Proficient computer skills and ability to use current school technology as needed; conversant with the safety and appropriate use of technology.
For School Police Officer classification: successful completion of basic training required by the Municipal Police Officers’ Education and Training Commission, or graduation from the Pennsylvania State Police Academy and service as a Pennsylvania State Police trooper with separation in good standing.
For School Police Officer classification: complete 12 hours of annual in-service training pursuant to Act 180.
For School Security Officer classification: successfully complete and currently hold Act 235 certification and be licensed under 18 Pa.C.S. Ch. 61 Subch. A.

Responsibilities

Monitor designated entrances and visitors, verify identities, and ensure that only authorized people enter the premises.
Provide security for designated facilities, including some extracurricular activities and some weekend hours.
Patrol designated areas on foot, maintain a visible presence to deter illicit activity, identify safety and security issues, and report unsafe conditions.
Respond promptly and appropriately to emergencies, including fires, medical emergencies, and criminal activity; contact emergency services and assist with evacuations as needed.
Operate and monitor video surveillance equipment, alarm systems, and other surveillance equipment.
Complete, organize, and submit incident reports according to departmental procedures; document incidents and suspicious activity in reports, logs, and forms, and provide detailed information when needed.
Assist in developing and implementing crime-prevention strategies, physical security assessments, and safety-awareness programs for faculty, staff, and students.
Help train school personnel on safety protocols and participate in emergency-preparedness drills and exercises.
Learn the physical structure of the school and maintain working knowledge of the school plant and grounds.
Assist with traffic flow and parking, keeping parking lots and entryways clear and accessible.
Assist with traffic and buses in student drop-off and pick-up areas to support safe, smooth entry and departure.
Build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents to foster a safe and supportive school environment.
Greet visitors, employees, and contractors professionally and assist with directions or information.
Maintain a positive demeanor in stressful situations and strict confidentiality regarding student and school matters.
If classified as a School Police Officer, exercise statutory law enforcement authority in accordance with appointment by the Court of Common Pleas.
Participate in professional learning as needed to perform assigned responsibilities effectively.
Read, analyze, and interpret business and professional publications, technical procedures, and governmental regulations; write reports, business correspondence, and procedural manuals; present information and respond to questions from the school community and general public.
Use computer skills and current school technology proficiently, and understand the safety and appropriate use of technology.