Security Manager I: Lead 24/7 Safety & Guest Experience

Security Manager I job at Denver Zoo. Denver, CO. Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance (DZCA) honors our animals, staff, and guests by conducting ourselves at the highest level of integrity through our Core Actions -- Inspire Awe: Safety, Care, Connect, and by embracing our Core Values of: Welcoming, Curious, United, Courageous, and Transformative in all that we do. The Security Manager I ensures a safe and secure environment for all guests, employees, animals, and assets at DZCA while delivering exceptional guest service. This role leads the daily operations of the Security Department, supervising teams across all shifts and actively managing responses to incidents and emergencies. As a leader in the zoo’s safety culture, they drive staff performance through training, drills, mentorship, and accountability, ensuring consistent, high-quality execution of safety and security protocols. Our team is made up of passionate and diverse professionals dedicated to providing excellent care for our animals while creating meaningful experiences for our guests. If you're excited to contribute your skills in a collaborative and innovative environment, Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is the place for you! Essential Duties and Responsibilities Leadership Lead, mentor, and coach Security Coordinators (Shift Supervisors) and their teams across all shifts. Serve as Security Manager On-Duty, overseeing full-time, part-time, temporary, and contract security personnel. Manage daily department operations and ensure timely, accurate execution of zoo-wide security support requests. Oversee all aspects of staffing, including recruitment, interviews, onboarding, scheduling, payroll, and offboarding. Use the applicant tracking system to manage candidate pipelines and coordinate hiring processes. Regularly audit dispatch logs, patrol reports, lost and found records, and departmental work orders. Review and approve shift schedules, training documentation, evaluations, and disciplinary actions submitted by supervisors. Conduct and document routine post checks and site inspections across all shifts. Track, analyze, and report on departmental performance metrics. Provide administrative support to the Security Operations Manager II and Senior Director of Security as needed. First Responder Act as Manager-on-Duty in the absence of senior leadership, supervising frontline security operations. Respond directly to incidents and fill frontline roles as necessary. Serve as an on-scene Incident Commander during emergencies, coordinating with public safety agencies and operating within the Incident Command System. Security Operations Respond to zoo emergencies in alignment with established protocols. Schedule and manage payroll for off-duty law enforcement officers as required. Maintain and update departmental policies, procedures, post orders, and training materials. Approve ID badge requests, access control changes, and key distributions. Review incident reports and coordinate CCTV footage retention. Conduct follow-up investigations and prepare detailed reports as needed. Ensure proper maintenance, use, and inventory of all security vehicles, carts, and equipment. Manage uniform distribution, replacements, and compliance with dress standards; maintain accurate issuance records. Training & Exercises Serve as the department’s Training Coordinator, overseeing all training content, delivery, and records. Mentor staff in training delivery and maintain comprehensive, current training materials. Partner with the Emergency Preparedness Coordinator to plan and evaluate emergency drills and exercises. Prepare Coordinators and Officer III staff to lead training sessions for department and zoo personnel. Track training completion and report on outcomes. Deliver presentations on safety and security topics to staff and volunteers. Other Duties & Responsibilities Serve as a departmental lead in the absence of other Security leadership, support team planning, goal setting, and professional development. Lead by example to inspire and motivate Security Specialists, Officers, and Shift Supervisors. Collaborate and communicate effectively with Security and cross-departmental leaders. Represent DZCA and the Security Department professionally in internal teams and public-facing roles. Maintain knowledge of industry best practices in security, risk management, and training. Fill in for Security Specialists or Officers as needed to maintain coverage. Support snow and ice removal operations as required. Other assistance, as designated by department leaders, to support the overall goals of the department and organization. DZCA retains the right to add or change duties and/or responsibilities at any time. Track and report on the department’s budgets for personnel, overtime, uniforms, equipment, fleet, and training. Acts as a good steward of DZCA resources. The nature of this position requires safeguarding against the release of confidential and proprietary information of DZCA. This position will interact with managers at all levels and staff members across the organization, in addition to members of external organizations and the public. Technical / Professional Requirements & Qualifications High school diploma or GED, with 3+ years of relevant experience or training, or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Minimum of three years of experience in civilian or military security, safety, law enforcement, public safety, or a related field, including relevant lived or specialized experience. Supervisory experience required, including staff oversight and skills in coaching, training, mentoring, and performance feedback. Experience in a high-volume, guest-facing environment or attraction preferred; nonprofit background a plus. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills; detail-oriented with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines in fast-paced environments. Flexible, self-motivated, and collaborative, with experience working in dynamic teams. Skilled in managing sensitive information with discretion and professionalism. Effective communicator and leader, experienced in engaging and supporting diverse teams across various reporting structures. Passionate about delivering exceptional guest service and inspiring teams to uphold the highest standards of safety and hospitality. Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite; experience with CCTV, access control, visitor management, and incident documentation systems required. Capable of quickly assessing situations, making informed decisions, and maintaining composure under pressure. Knowledgeable in local, state, and federal laws, regulations, and policies. Additional Considerations: College degree in business administration, criminal justice, education, or a related field. Experience developing or facilitating staff training and/or knowledge of adult learning methodologies. Position Conditions To support our security operations, candidates must be at least 21 years of age with a valid driver's license and a clean driving record. Ability to pass a physical examination, background check, and pre-employment drug and alcohol screen. Ability to obtain a Denver Security License. Ability to lift to 50 lbs. Schedule Availability: Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including at least one weekend day (Saturday or Sunday), with occasional evening and holiday shifts. Participation in a rotating on-call schedule is required. As a 24/7/365 operation, availability across all shifts is essential. Must be able to walk (80 acres) and/or stand up to 8 hours daily in adverse outdoor conditions such as cold, rain, snow, or extreme heat. Must obtain and maintain certification in Stop the Bleed, First Aid, CPR, and AED (Adult/Child/Infant), including Instructor-level, within three months of hire and throughout employment. Provided and maintained by the organization. Compensation The range for this position is $5,529 - $6,911 (monthly). A Truly Wild Workplace with Competitive Benefits Join our One Zoo Team and enjoy a full spectrum of competitive benefits, including: Comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage Generous paid time off : vacation, sick leave, personal days, and holidays A Family-Plus DZCA Membership with discounted tickets to special events Concession and retail discounts, plus free parking And so much more ! Application Process and Timelines Application Deadline: May 9th, 2025. Review of applications will begin immediately. DZCA reserves the right to close the position prior to this date. Denver Zoo Conservation Alliance is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected status, or any other characteristic protected by law. #J-18808-Ljbffr Payfuture Technologies