Security Operations Specialist - Plant Watson

Southern Company•Gulfport, MS

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 Corporate Security programs, NERC CIP physical security requirements, site-specific procedures, and security projects. It serves as a project manager for varying tasks as directed and represents Corporate Security at the supported generation or corporate facility, providing updates to leadership as needed. The position is also described as a developmental role for future leadership opportunities. The job is located in Gulfport, Mississippi, and supports generation plant operations. Storm support is required for all roles at Mississippi Power, 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 appropriately 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.
Availability to support storm restoration efforts and work 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 effectively, 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 ensure 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 ensure 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.
Act as the site’s primary after-hours contact for security incidents.
Serve as a project manager for varying tasks as directed and provide updates to leadership as needed.