Safety & Security Specialist (Clarksville)

Vanderbilt University•Clarksville, TN

4d•Onsite

About The Position

The Safety & Security Specialist serves as a welcoming and vigilant presence within the Vanderbilt University community. As part of Vanderbilt University Public Safety, this role supports the safety and security of the Clarksville Medical Center by operating weapon-detection equipment, screening individuals entering facilities, and providing general patrol coverage across buildings, grounds, parking lots, and garages. The Specialist responds to safety concerns, assists visitors and staff, and communicates clearly and professionally to maintain a safe, respectful, and service-oriented environment. This role also supports traffic flow, parking guidelines, and emergency response activities, escalating concerns to supervisory personnel when needed.

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.
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 as they pass through the weapon detector, ensuring that each person is scanned thoroughly.
Adhere to established security protocols and procedures while operating the weapon detector checkpoint to ensure the safety and security of the premises.
Assist visitors who may require assistance or guidance as they pass through the weapon detector.
Respond to non-police emergency calls to include but not be limited to: alarms (fire, general security), hazardous material spills and leaks, and pedestrian or vehicular 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 guidelines specified in department policy and procedures.
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 the administration of the plan.
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 as assigned.
Provide internal and external disaster assistance according to Departmental, University, and Medical Center policies and procedures.
Ensure compliance with established procedures and protocols.
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 (e.g., keys, coins) or potential threats.
Perform secondary screenings on individuals who trigger alarms, using handheld detectors or physical patdowns as appropriate to locate and identify the source.
Effectively communicate with VUPS and VUMC personnel to ensure a coordinated effort in maintaining security and responding to any potential threats detected by the weapon detector.
Develop rapport with members of the university community and the surrounding areas; participates in community relations activities.
Assist the community members and provide courteous and professional customer service to individuals entering the security checkpoint, addressing any concerns or inquiries with patience and respect while maintaining security measures.
Communicate VUMC policies and enforcement procedures to visitors, staff, and guests to ensure the safety of the community.
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.