Library Security Specialist

City of Austin•El Paso, TX

4d•$23 - $26•Onsite

About The Position

Under general supervision, provides visible safety and security services for Austin Public Library facilities by ensuring a safe and pleasant environment for employees and patrons. The Library Security Specialist plays a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of all Austin Public Library (APL) staff and patrons. This position is responsible for delivering comprehensive security and support services across all 23 library locations. Security coverage is provided seven days a week. Responsibilities include conducting facility checks, responding to alarms and suspicious activity, and monitoring electronic access and CCTV systems. As the first point of contact in emergencies, the specialist must communicate effectively with law enforcement. Security staff maintain a visible presence. They enforce library policies to support a safe and welcoming environment.

Requirements

Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus one (1) year of experience in a field related to the job.
Knowledge of Federal, State, Local laws, and ordinances.
Knowledge of city practice, policy, and procedure.
Knowledge of equity, diversity, and inclusion principles and practices in libraries.
Skill in oral and written communications.
Skill in handling multiple tasks and prioritizing.
Skill in data analysis and problem solving.
Skill in handling conflict and uncertain situations.
Skill in using computers and related software, including Microsoft Office products.
Ability to facilitate discussions and resolve issues.
Ability to lead and train diverse groups.
Ability to quickly recognize and analyze irregular events.
Ability to establish and maintain effective communication and working relationships with city employees and the public.
Ability to provide high-level customer service.
Ability to work with people of diverse backgrounds.
Must possess required knowledge, skills, abilities, and experience and be able to explain and demonstrate, with or without reasonable accommodations, that the essential functions of the job can be performed.
May require a valid Texas Driver License.
Valid Texas Class C Driver’s License or the ability to acquire one within 90 days of your hire date.
External New Hires must meet the City of Austin’s Driver Record Evaluation (DRE) requisite. To be considered for a driving position, applicants cannot have more than three moving violations or a total of six Driver Record Evaluation points within a period of thirty-six (36) months.
Must have the ability to read, write, and speak fluently in English.

Nice To Haves

Observational skills: Ability to observe surroundings to prevent incidents and policy violations while safeguarding self, others, and the environment.
Effective Communication: Expert verbal and written communication skills to convey clear information to team members, clients, and the public. Ability to write comprehensive and detailed incident reports.
Conflict Resolution: Skills to handle challenging situations effectively using verbal and behavioral techniques, as well as knowledge of de-escalation methods.
Customer Service: The position will have daily interactions with coworkers, customers, and the public. Position requires projecting friendliness, respect, and approachability.
Emergency Response: Knowledge of how to respond in emergencies, including fire safety evacuations, first aid, behavioral, and police encounters.
Security Systems: Familiarity with systems such as Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV), fire suppression systems, badging systems, and digital/biometric security.
Decision-Making: Ability to make informed decisions based on observations, training, and established policies and procedures.
Event Security: Ability to effectively manage large groups by performing walk-through safety patrols within and outside events.
Driving: You will drive when necessary to multiple locations as part of your regular job duties.
Verification of the minimum qualifications (Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent, plus one (1) year of experience in a field related to the job) will be required. You must provide proof of education from an accredited organization/institute.
Veteran candidates will be required to provide a copy of their DD-214

Responsibilities

Conducts security patrols at branch locations, other Library facilities, parking lots/garages, and surrounding areas for unsafe conditions and reports them as necessary.
Responds to fire alarms, security alarms, and accidents - contacts appropriate emergency personnel.
Investigates disturbances and in the event of an emergency, maintains order and safety of occupants.
Provides customer service and acts as a source of information and assistance to inform the public of information regarding Library services, programming, policy and regulations.
Anticipates, de-escalates, and solves problems and/or provides reports to appropriate agency.
Monitors welfare of security personnel working after-hours, overnight, and at remote assignments.
Provides direction and training to security personnel, contract employees, and other City departments regarding Non-Violent Crisis Intervention and other training areas.
Issues and enforces Criminal Trespass Notices for violations and determines if police assistance is needed.
Completes and maintains incident reports and other routine documentation.
Directs traffic and provides crowd control and security services for after-hours events held by internal and external customers.
Transports and safeguards cash pick up and drop offs at all Library locations.
Design, plan, organize training programs, policies, and training schedules for employees on common and specialized security subjects in accordance with all legal, contractual, and company-mandated requirements
Create reports based on incidents, projects, and assigned tasks.