Security Operations Specialist - Plant Watson

Southern Company • Gulfport, MS

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Security Operations Specialist provides oversight of contract guard operations and strengthens the protection of company personnel, assets, and critical infrastructure. The role supports implementation of Corporate Security programs, NERC CIP physical security requirements, and site-specific procedures, and provides project support. The specialist also serves as a project manager for assigned tasks and as the Corporate Security representative for the supported generation or corporate facility, providing updates to leadership as needed. The position is described as a developmental role for future leadership opportunities.

The position is located in Gulfport, Mississippi, and supports generation plant operations. Storm support is required, including work during storm restoration efforts and outside normal business hours as needed.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 3 years of experience in security, local, state, military, or federal agencies.
• Demonstrated competency consistent with Security Officer positions.
• Working knowledge of physical security operations, including patrol, access control, alarm response, and CCTV monitoring.
• Familiarity with electronic security systems such as CCURE and Avigilon, and ability to operate systems in accordance with policy.
• Understanding of Corporate Security policies and guidelines.
• Knowledge of federal, state, and local criminal laws applicable to security operations.
• Ability to manage, protect, store, and transmit sensitive information in accordance with company policy.
• Strong customer service skills and ability to interact professionally with employees, contractors, and visitors at all levels.
• Ability to follow post orders, emergency response procedures, and site-specific security plans.
• Ability to respond effectively to incidents, exercise sound judgment under pressure, and escalate issues appropriately.
• Ability to obtain and maintain compliance with OPCO-specific licensing requirements and maintain firearm qualifications when required.
• Ability to work during storm restoration efforts and outside normal business hours as needed.

Nice To Haves

• Associate or bachelor's degree in criminal justice, security management, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead physical security projects and oversee complex assignments while serving as the site's corporate security subject matter expert.
• Support security leadership by maintaining situational awareness, managing incidents, and contributing to safe, secure, and professional site operations.
• Prepare accurate and timely incident reports, logs, and documentation; conduct patrols; monitor access; and enforce NERC CIP physical security requirements.
• Review contract guard reports and documentation to support consistent enforcement of company policies, procedures, and site rules.
• Support and oversee access management, visitor processing, and badging.
• Lead and support special security events and heightened operations.
• Plan, coordinate, and participate in drills, training, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Provide contract guard training to support readiness and effective performance.
• Serve as the primary liaison with law enforcement, emergency responders, and internal stakeholders.
• Represent Corporate Security in meetings with site leadership and act as the site's primary after-hours contact for security incidents.
• Provide project management for varying tasks as directed and provide updates to leadership as needed.

Benefits

• Competitive base salary.
• Annual incentive awards for eligible employees.
• Health, welfare, and retirement benefits designed to support physical, financial, and emotional/social well-being.
• May be eligible for additional compensation, such as an incentive program, subject to the terms and conditions of applicable plans.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: High school or GED