Associate Specialist, Security (Fire / Rescue)

Merck•Elkton, VA

7d•$59,100 - $93,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Associate Specialist, Security (Fire / Rescue) leads shift-based emergency response, safety, and security operations across the site. The role covers fire protection, hazardous materials coordination, loss prevention, project support, security systems, and related services. It conducts audits and surveys to identify risks and evaluate controls, and enforces site requirements for property security, access, traffic, parking, and employee conduct. The position serves as the on-shift contact for emergency, safety, and security incidents; assesses and responds to abnormal conditions; performs industrial fire suppression and hazardous-material response; and may act as Incident Commander during plant emergencies. Duties also include inspections and maintenance of fire protection equipment, operation of security and access systems, rescue activities, personnel training, incident notification and documentation, and collaboration with internal departments and outside agencies. The role requires 12-hour rotating shifts, including weekends and holidays, and overtime as required. It also requires availability to provide off-shift mitigation and support during chemical cleanups.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
Firefighter I, II, or III certification.
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification.
Current CPR and First Aid certification.
At least 7 years of experience as a professional or volunteer firefighter, preferably in an officer role.
Physical capability to perform all job tasks.
Confined Space Rescue training.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Teams, Outlook) and web-based programs.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to work across multiple assignments with contract and site personnel at all management levels.
Ability to work effectively under high-stress conditions and indoors and outdoors in varied weather.
Ability to work under cGMP guidelines.
Availability to provide off-shift mitigation and support during chemical cleanups.
Ability to work 12-hour rotating shifts, including holidays and weekends, and overtime as required.

Nice To Haves

Hazmat Technician certification.
NFPA 25 certification (Inspection, Maintenance and Testing of Water-Based Fire Protection Systems).
OSHA General Industry and/or Construction training.
High Angle Rescue and advanced Confined Space Rescue training.
Experience with industrial utility systems, including air, steam, and high voltage.
Virginia Emergency Vehicle Operator Certification (EVOC) or equivalent.
Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).
Certified Protection Officer (IFPO), Certified Protection Professional (ASIS), or Certified Security Supervisor (IFPO).
National Incident Management System (NIMS) ICS 100, 200, 300, and 700 certifications.
Experience in workplace violence or active assailant response.
Experience interacting with local, state, and federal agencies.
Experience managing contracted professionals and vendors.
Crisis management experience, including Incident Command or Emergency Operations Center (EOC) leadership.

Responsibilities

Oversee shift operations and ensure tasks are completed efficiently and in accordance with site procedures.
Conduct shift turnovers and brief incoming teams on ongoing issues and special instructions.
Maintain operating logs and records documenting equipment and system performance, and maintain good housekeeping in areas of responsibility.
Serve as the on-shift contact for safety, emergency, and security incidents.
Assess and investigate smoke, odors, chemical or biological spills, fires, alarms, and other abnormal situations, and initiate appropriate response actions.
Respond to hazardous-material emergency calls, assess situations, and contain, clean up, and facilitate disposal of hazardous materials according to regulations and procedures.
Perform industrial fire suppression using specialized equipment and techniques.
Operate protective suits, respirators, testing instruments, and other specialized equipment.
Act as Incident Commander for plant emergencies and maintain compliance with OSHA and NFPA requirements.
Coordinate with outside agencies during site emergencies and support site medical emergency response when required.
Perform elevator and confined-space rescues as required.
Conduct routine fire inspections, fire system shutdowns, and fire panel resets.
Inspect buildings for fire hazards and verify appropriate fire protection and emergency equipment are present.
Inspect and test fire pumps, extinguishers, hoses, and related equipment; record and report results.
Maintain firefighting and fire protection equipment, report defects, and correct minor defects where appropriate.
Ensure fire trucks, powered equipment, and firefighter gear are tested and maintained according to departmental guidelines.
Support fire protection tests and exercises, including fire-water use, equipment displays, ventilation, and washdowns.
Act as a security contact and guide, respond to potential security incidents, and operate and maintain plant security systems and programs.
Troubleshoot site badging and access systems and respond appropriately to alarm conditions.
Coordinate security responses and collaborate with security personnel and external responders.
Direct, conduct, and coordinate training for department personnel, Emergency Response Team members, volunteers, and employees.
Deliver specialized training, including fire extinguisher use and emergency procedures, and participate in drills and exercises.
Pursue ongoing education to remain current on regulations, safety procedures, and equipment.
Promptly notify pertinent personnel during incidents and take immediate action to protect personnel, facilities, records, and materials.
Consult with and advise departments, provide engineering input, and help ensure projects and plans conform to environmental and regulatory requirements.