Security Team Specialist I-Westfield Youth Service Center

Commonwealth of Massachusetts•Westfield, MA

1d•Onsite

About The Position

The Department of Youth Services (DYS), the juvenile justice agency for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, serves young people ages 7–21 who are detained or committed. It provides detention, custody, diagnosis, education, and support, with a focus on positive change and adolescent-focused rehabilitation. The Security Team Specialist I conducts surveillance and patrols assigned areas; performs security checks of buildings and grounds; monitors cameras, security equipment, curfews, and electronic monitoring devices; responds to violations and emergencies; and maintains or reviews operational records. Depending on assignment, the role may also involve community curfew calls, visitor screening, vehicle and identification records, and transportation of youth, clients, or residents. The position is at the Westfield Youth Service Center in Westfield, Massachusetts. It is a designated emergency personnel position in a residential setting requiring 24/7 monitoring. Assigned shifts may include days, evenings, and nights, and employees may be required to work extended hours, nights, holidays, or weekends. The specified shift is 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM, with Tuesday and Wednesday off. Candidates must complete pre-employment drug/steroid and psychological screening, a medical examination, and a Physical Abilities Test. A criminal background check is conducted before hiring, and education, licensure, and certifications are verified. DYS employees must obtain and maintain valid CPR, AED, first aid, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention certifications. Depending on assignment, a current and valid motor vehicle driver’s license at the required class level may also be required. The position is subject to vaccination or mitigation requirements for COVID-19 and influenza under the cited regulation.

Requirements

At least one year of full-time or equivalent part-time experience in work involving the protection or security of buildings, equipment, or individuals, or an equivalent combination of experience and permitted substitutions.
An Associate’s degree or higher in a related field may substitute for the required experience.
Must be at least 21 years old.
Must have reliable transportation.
Must obtain and maintain valid CPR, AED, first aid, crisis intervention, and suicide prevention certifications.
Depending on assignment, may be required to have a current and valid motor vehicle driver’s license at a specified class level.
Must successfully complete pre-employment drug/steroid screening, psychological screening, a medical examination, and a Physical Abilities Test.
Must pass a criminal background check; education, licensure, and certifications will be verified.
Must meet the applicable COVID-19 and influenza vaccination or mitigation requirements.
Ability to report emergencies to 911 and designated emergency responders, and to write clear, legible incident reports.
Ability to read and understand warning and danger signs, safety instructions, and owner policies.
Ability to remain calm, use sound judgment, assess situations quickly, identify critical issues, and respond according to policy and procedures.
Ability to research, investigate, compile, document, and clearly relay information.
Ability to mediate conflict tactfully and professionally, maintain composure, and adapt to changes.
Ability to produce routine written correspondence, including logs and reports.
Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to interact effectively across social levels and diverse cultures.
Ability to manage stressful situations, including challenging people approaching or occupying unauthorized areas.
Ability to handle multiple tasks concurrently and use discretion with sensitive and confidential information.
Prior experience in similar security work, mature judgment, and the ability to think and act quickly in an emergency.
Flexibility, adaptability, and the ability to work as part of a team.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency with access control, video management, and communication system platforms.
Experience with Genetec Security Center.
Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.

Responsibilities

Monitor surveillance cameras and patrol assigned interior and exterior areas, including parking areas.
Check locks, search for contraband, prevent incidents, and help ensure the safety of staff, youth, clients, residents, and other occupants.
Inspect fire and other safety equipment in and around the facility according to agency procedures and standards.
Respond to emergencies by administering first aid, securing unsecured areas, calling for assistance, and taking other necessary actions.
Gather information about incidents and enter relevant details into the operations log or electronic client information system.
Conduct curfew-monitoring calls to youth placed in the community when assigned.
Take appropriate action to handle violations and emergency situations in accordance with authorized procedures.
Notify staff and request assistance during emergencies.
Assist with evacuations during drills and emergency situations.
Receive and respond to internal and external telephone calls, providing requested information and guidance.
Transport injured or restrained youth, clients, or residents to areas within the facility while maintaining security.
Receive, screen, register, and direct visitors; determine visitation eligibility and preserve order and resident well-being.
Maintain electronic records of staff vehicle registration and identification and manage employee identification cards when assigned.
Lock down the facility under the facility administrator’s authority.
Determine whether restraints are necessary when transporting youth.
Deny the transition or transport of youth, clients, or residents when appropriate.
Refuse visitor access when appropriate.