Safety & Security Officer - SRO

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

3d•Onsite

About The Position

Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is seeking a Safety & Security Officer - SRO to join their team. This role is part of the Office of the Chief of Police within the Division of Administration. VUPS is a team of over 400 professionals dedicated to creating a safe and secure environment for the Vanderbilt community and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The department comprises commissioned officers, security professionals, and administrative staff who collaborate to maintain high standards of community-based policing. The Safety & Security Officer will act as a School Resource Officer (SRO) at a designated school, providing focused safety and security support. This assignment is subject to change based on the department's and university's strategic needs.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED is required.
Must have and maintain a valid driver's license and a satisfactory driving record.
Must successfully pass a comprehensive background investigation and drug screening.
Completion of VUPS training within 30 days of hire is required (De-escalation techniques, Pressure Point Control Tactics, ASP Baton and pepper spray, CPR and AED certification, Security officer training).
At least 24 months of experience in roles requiring high levels of customer service, communication, and professionalism (e.g., hospitality, concierge, guest services, customer relations, public-facing service roles) is required.
Demonstrated stable employment history, reflecting reliability and dependability in prior roles.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact effectively with individuals from various backgrounds, are required.
Demonstrated ability to remain calm and composed under pressure and in potentially challenging situations is required.
Attention to detail and the ability to consistently follow safety protocols and procedures is required.
Demonstrated ability to problem-solve is required.
Ability to utilize electronic systems and two-way radio is required.
18 years of age is required.
Must be able to stand for extended periods.
Must be able to walk, climb, and lift up to 25 pounds.
Meet written departmental standards on appearance/grooming.
Must obtain immunizations and medical tests as required to be able to work in patient care and high-risk areas.

Nice To Haves

Security experience is strongly preferred but not required.

Responsibilities

Serve the community through proactive security post assignments or patrol functions, including self-initiated activities.
Monitor individuals passing through the weapon detector, ensuring thorough scanning.
Adhere to established security protocols and procedures while operating the weapon detector checkpoint.
Assist visitors who may require assistance or guidance at the weapon detector checkpoint.
Respond to non-police emergency calls, including alarms, hazardous material spills and leaks, and traffic control.
Use trained tactics to assist in controlling, de-escalating, or restraining combative and/or violent patients as requested by medical personnel.
Provide backup and assistance for other officers within departmental guidelines.
Respond to general security or safety hazard calls for service as directed.
Maintain knowledge of the institutional Disaster Plan and the role of the Safety & Security Specialist in its administration.
Maintain familiarity with personal protective equipment, including protective suits and N-95 respirators.
Provide walking escorts as assigned.
Provide security for events, including athletic events, concerts, speaking engagements, visiting dignitaries, commencement, and other assigned events.
Provide internal and external disaster assistance according to Departmental, University, and Medical Center policies and procedures.
Ensure compliance with established procedures and protocols.
Act as a School Resource Officer (SRO) stationed at a specifically assigned school.
Set up, operate, maintain, and store the weapon detector, reporting any malfunctions.
Actively monitor the weapon detector for alarm triggers and assess potential threats.
Perform secondary screenings on individuals who trigger alarms.
Effectively communicate with VUPS and VUMC personnel for coordinated security efforts.
Develop rapport with members of the university community and surrounding areas; participate in community relations activities.
Assist community members and provide courteous and professional customer service at the security checkpoint.
Communicate VUMC policies and enforcement procedures to visitors, staff, and guests.
Document incidents, alarms, or unusual occurrences and report them to the shift Supervisor.
Investigate and write reports for non-criminal activities as assigned.