Safety & Security Officer - SRO

Vanderbilt University•Nashville, TN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

Vanderbilt University Public Safety (VUPS) is a dedicated team of over 400 professionals committed to fostering a safe, secure, and welcoming environment for the Vanderbilt community and Vanderbilt University Medical Center. The department includes commissioned officers, security professionals, and skilled administrative staff working collaboratively to uphold community-based policing standards. This role serves as a School Resource Officer (SRO) stationed at a designated school, providing focused safety and security support, with the understanding that this assignment may change based on departmental 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 in accordance with university and departmental standards.
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.

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.
Respond to general security or safety hazard calls for service.
Maintain knowledge of the institutional Disaster Plan and the role of the Safety & Security Specialist.
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 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 to provide focused safety and security support.
Set up, operate, maintain, and store the weapon detector, ensuring it remains in good working condition and promptly reporting any malfunctions or issues to the shift supervisor.
Actively monitor the weapon detector for alarm triggers and assess whether activations are caused by harmless items or potential threats.
Perform secondary screenings on individuals who trigger alarms, using handheld detectors or physical pat-downs as appropriate.
Effectively communicate with VUPS and VUMC personnel to ensure a coordinated effort in maintaining security and responding to potential threats.
Develop rapport with members of the university community as well as surrounding areas; participate in community relations activities.
Assist community members and provide courteous and professional customer service to individuals entering the security checkpoint.
Communicate VUMC policies and enforcement procedures to visitors, staff, and guests.
Document any incidents, alarms, or unusual occurrences that happen during the shift and report them to the shift Supervisor.
Investigate and write reports for non-criminal activities as assigned.