Safety Ambassador

Safety Ambassador

Virginia Commonwealth University's Department of Campus Police is seeking a full-time Safety Ambassador to support the safety and wellbeing of the VCU and VCU Health System community. This is a fully onsite, non-sworn civilian staff position within the Public Safety and Security department, responding to public safety calls for assistance that do not require a sworn police officer. Working in close coordination with VCU Police officers, the Safety Ambassador provides a visible, approachable presence across campus environments including outdoor areas and serves as a trusted first point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This is a critical position requiring strong judgment, communication skills, and the ability to de-escalate challenging situations professionally and effectively.

The primary role of the Safety Ambassador is to respond to public safety calls for assistance that do not require the presence of sworn, uniformed police officers. Safety Ambassadors will support members of the VCU and VCU Health System community by working in coordination with VCU Police. These folks will provide a presence and visibility for the VCU community. The Safety Ambassador is a non-sworn civilian position that works daily at VCUPD and its officers.

Minimum qualifications include thorough knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations, as well as Virginia Commonwealth University and VCU Police Department policies, procedures, and guidelines. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to interpret, apply, and communicate policies, procedures, and regulations accurately and consistently. Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills are essential, along with the ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with individuals at all levels within and outside the university. The candidate must also ask thoughtful questions, exercise sound judgment, and maintain professionalism when handling sensitive or complex matters. A valid Virginia driver's license with a satisfactory driving record is required. Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and conflict resolution skills are necessary, including the ability to de-escalate challenging situations and respond effectively under pressure. The candidate should manage multiple priorities, organize competing projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. Proven ability to work independently, exercise initiative, and assume responsibility while contributing effectively as a collaborative team member in an environment of shared accountability is also required. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism, and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred qualifications include a bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience. Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities in a behavioral healthcare setting is preferred. Demonstrated experience analyzing policies and procedures is also desirable. The candidate should have proven ability to conduct research, gather and evaluate information, prepare comprehensive reports, and interpret policies, regulations, and procedures. Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills with the ability to apply critical thinking in complex situations are required.

Salary range: $39,000 - $42,000. Benefits include comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more. FLSA exemption status: Non-Exempt. Hours per week: 40. Restricted position: No. ORP eligible: No. Flexible work arrangement: Fully Onsite. University job title: 31161N - Safety Ambassador 1.