Safety and Security Associate - Pack Memorial Library (Bilingual Preferred)

Buncombe County•Asheville, NC

14d•$20 - $28•Onsite

About The Position

The Library Safety Associate is a front-line member of the public service team at Pack Memorial Library. Pack Memorial Library is located in downtown Asheville and is more than just a library. Pack Memorial serves a community hub for patrons and locals and offers a safe space for people seeking resources. This position is responsible for promoting safety and security by patrolling the facility and interacting with patrons. The Safety Associate responds directly to patron safety concerns and de-escalates situations on a daily basis, including addressing situations which violate Library policy. This position may provide Narcan/Naloxone administration to Library visitors. The position also serves as a welcoming and friendly point of connection for the many downtown regulars at Pack Memorial Library and connects them with community services and resources. The Safety Associate may also provide safety/security support to library staff at other Buncombe County Public Libraries. The Library Safety Associate reports to the Library Services Manager. This is a great position for people who enjoy the atmosphere in our libraries and who want to connect with community and locals. If you have worked a Security position in the past and are looking for an engaging, daytime, community-focused position, this is the job for you! Bilingual Spanish/English speakers are preferred.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED, and two (2) years of experience in security, law enforcement or social work-related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
Excellent verbal communication skills with the ability to proactively diffuse and deescalate situations.
Excellent written communication skills and the ability to prepare meaningful, concise, and accurate reports.
Knowledge of loss prevention and life safety issues.
Knowledge of computers and software such as Microsoft Office, as well as the ability to operate and monitor surveillance software.
Knowledge of library routine and procedures.
Ability to define problems, establish facts and draw valid conclusions.
Ability to maintain effective working relationships and deal tactfully and courteously with library staff and the public.
Able to respond to and effectively address significant incidents, recognizing and referring situations best handled by law enforcement.
Must possess excellent observation skills, focus, and attention to detail to identify threats quickly.
Excellent interpersonal skills (professional, friendly, helpful) including building and enhancing diverse relationships.
Knowledge of resources and organizations that provide assistance to the community.
Ability to be empathetic and to speak comfortably with individuals from all walks of life.
Ability to acknowledge negative behavior through redirection and provide positive choices for customers therefore ensuring customers continue to have a successful library experience.
Ability to stand and walk for long periods.

Nice To Haves

Bilingual Spanish/English speakers are preferred.

Responsibilities

Patrol all interior and exterior grounds to protect premises, property, and equipment
Circulate among visitors, customers, and employees to preserve order and protect property while ensuring a positive customer experience
Greet customers, answer directional questions, and escort customers with disabilities.
Proactively engage with customers to address issues and quickly diffuse situations and minimize disruption.
Discuss infractions or violations with customers, assesses appropriate actions, and escort customers from premises if necessary.
Assist customers and staff in emergency situations relating to safety and security
Respond quickly to requests for security presence during unusual incidents (e.g. assisting staff in deescalating situations with customers, being a presence in the event of threats against staff).
Interpret, communicate, and enforce library policies, procedures, and rules with customers, security workers, and other staff.
Maintain appropriate security reports and records.
Collaborate with library staff and community partners to assess and address patron needs and provide guidance to patrons as applicable.
Observe and report matters pertaining to library building condition and maintenance.
Provide security to other Library locations and special events, as needed.
Actively support the needs of the library, including completion of opening and closing procedures.
Perform other related duties as assigned.