INSTITUTIONAL SECURITY SPECIALIST I OPS - 60957307

State of FloridaGainesville, FL
Onsite

About The Position

This is a highly responsible and professional position serving as the Institutional Security Specialist I within the Security Unit. The ideal candidate will be a collaborative team player who works seamlessly across all sections within the program office. This role requires the use of independent judgment, a proactive approach to responsibilities, and exceptional attention to detail. If you are driven, organized, and thrive in a fast-paced environment, we encourage you to apply. The Florida Department of Children and Families (DCF) is the state of Florida’s social services agency. The agency oversees services for child safety, fostering, adoption, domestic violence, adult protective services, refugees, homelessness, mental health, substance abuse, childcare providers, human trafficking and public assistance. The agency’s mission is to work in partnership with local communities to protect the vulnerable, promote strong and economically self-sufficient families, and advance personal and family recovery and resiliency. Within DCF, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health (SAMH) Program office is recognized as the single state authority for substance abuse and mental health services. The Office of SAMH is statutorily responsible for the planning, evaluation, and implementation of a comprehensive statewide system of care for the prevention, treatment, and recovery of children and adults with serious mental illnesses or substance use disorders. North Florida Evaluation and Treatment Center (NFETC) is a 216-bed, all male, forensic, mental health rehabilitation facility. The Center is located in northeast Gainesville, Florida on 639 picturesque acres with regular sightings of deer, turkey and other wildlife. NFETC employs a variety of entry level to leadership positions including food service, maintenance, direct care, nurses, counselors, rehab therapists, medical doctors, security, psychiatrists, and psychologists. NORTH FLORIDA EVALUATION AND TREATMENT FACILITY IS A TOBACCO FREE FACILITY.

Requirements

  • Be at least 19 years of age.
  • Be a citizen of the United States notwithstanding any laws of the State to the contrary.
  • Be a high school graduate or its "equivalent" as the term may be determined by the Criminal Justice Standards and Training Commission.
  • Not have been convicted of any felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement, nor have received a dishonorable or undesirable discharge from any of the Armed Forces of the United States. Any person who, after July 1, 1981, pleads guilty or nolo contendere or is found guilty of a felony or of a misdemeanor involving perjury or a false statement shall not be eligible for employment or appointment as an officer, notwithstanding suspension of sentence or withholding of adjudication.
  • Have his/her processed fingerprints on file with the employing agency.
  • Have passed a physical examination by a licensed physician based on specifications established by the Commission.
  • Have a good moral character as determined by a background investigation under procedures established by the Commission.
  • Have completed a 320-hour basic recruit training course or its equivalent as established by the Commission.
  • Ability to deal effectively with individuals.
  • Ability to recognize dangerous or potentially dangerous situations.
  • Ability to investigate suspicious or unusual events.
  • Ability to work without close supervision and to make independent decisions.
  • Ability to respond calmly in an emergency situation and to determine proper course of action.
  • Ability to make accurate observations.
  • Ability to follow instructions.
  • Ability to communicate effectively.
  • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.

Nice To Haves

  • Applicant selected to fill this position shall be required to submit to a pre-employment medical examination, including successful completion of pre-employment Drug Screening.
  • This position requires lifting, sometimes in excess of 40 lbs, pulling and squatting.
  • Duties of this postion require the incumbent to be knowledgeable of and utilize the principles of Total Quality Management.

Responsibilities

  • Monitor electronic sensing devices, facilities via walking, mobile patrol and stationary post assignments, and door and fence alarm systems for ingress and egress of persons within secure areas.
  • Maintain radio and telephone communications as required.
  • Report any equipment discrepancies.
  • Ensure the safety of residents and staff when a resident is exhibiting behavior dangerous to self and others, which may involve the use of physical holds, devices or equipment.
  • Ensure the safety of residents and staff during emergency situations.
  • Separate residents from distressful stimuli and assist in resolving conflict.
  • Ensure residents are not neglected, abused or exploited; or report to the abuse hotline if necessary.
  • Prevent escapes or apprehend escapees.
  • Report pedestrian and vehicle traffic violations.
  • Assist in hospital emergencies such as traffic control for accidents, searches, and providing assistance in reports of suspicious and criminal activities.
  • Ensure all specified training requirements are in compliance.
  • Investigate unusual, suspicious, or extraordinary events.
  • Investigate incidents relating to criminal activity and resident abuse cases by providing assistance to local law enforcement as requested concerning investigations involving hospital staff, residents or property.
  • Transport residents and staff within and outside of the facility.
  • Document all required interactions while on duty.
  • Perform other related duties.

Benefits

  • Working for the State of Florida is more than a paycheck. The State’s total compensation package for employees features a highly competitive set of employee benefits.
  • For a more complete list of benefits, visit www.mybenefits.myflorida.com.
© 2026 Teal Labs, Inc
Privacy PolicyTerms of Service