Armed Security Officer - Winter Shelter

Job Description

Job Description

Position Summary

The Armed Security Officer is responsible for maintaining a safe, secure, and orderly environment for residents, staff, volunteers, and visitors at the winter shelter. This position involves monitoring access to the facility, preventing prohibited weapons and contraband from entering the property, conducting routine security checks throughout the shelter, responding to safety concerns, contacting local law enforcement or emergency services when necessary, and documenting incidents accurately.

The Security Officer is expected to demonstrate professionalism, respect, patience, and sound judgement while working with individuals experiencing homelessness or other challenging circumstances.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Access Control and Security Screening: Monitor entrances and exits to help ensure that residents and visitors do not bring weapons, prohibited items, or other contraband onto shelter property. Conduct screenings and inspections in accordance with shelter policies and established procedures.
• Resident Monitoring: Conduct regular patrols and wellness checks throughout the shelter, including sleeping areas, common areas, restrooms, hallways, and outdoor property, as permitted by shelter policy.
• Safety and Security: Maintain a visible security presence and remain alert to potential hazards, suspicious activity, conflicts, prohibited behavior, or threats to the safety of residents and staff.
• Incident Response: Respond promptly and professionally to disturbances, safety concerns, policy violations, and other incidents. Request assistance from the shelter supervisor, local law enforcement, or emergency responders when appropriate.
• Medical Emergencies: Contact 911, emergency medical services, or local law enforcement as appropriate when a resident experiences a medical emergency or when assistance is needed. Notify shelter management and follow established emergency response procedures.
• Incident Documentation: Complete accurate, objective, and timely incident reports for security concerns, medical emergencies, conflicts, prohibited items, policy violations, law enforcement involvement, and other significant events.
• Policy Enforcement: Communicate and enforce shelter rules consistently, respectfully, and fairly. Explain expectations to residents and seek supervisory assistance when situations escalate.
• Property Monitoring: Inspect the shelter grounds and surrounding areas during assigned patrols, reporting hazards, property damage, unauthorized access, or other security concerns.
• Communication and Reporting: Maintain clear communication with shelter staff and management regarding safety issues, resident concerns, incidents, and any conditions requiring follow-up.
• Confidentiality and Professional Conduct: Protect residents’ privacy and confidential information while treating all individuals with dignity, respect, and impartiality.
• Additional Responsibilities: Perform other security-related duties as assigned by the shelter supervisor or site manager.