A Shelter Security Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining a safe and secure environment for residents, staff, and visitors within a shelter facility. Shelters, which may include those for the homeless, survivors of domestic violence, or refugees, require vigilant security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all occupants. Below is a detailed job description for a Shelter Security Officer:

Position Title: Shelter Security Officer

Job Summary:

The Shelter Security Officer (SSO) is responsible for implementing and enforcing the shelter's security policies and procedures to protect the facility's residents, staff, and assets. This position involves monitoring the premises, responding to emergencies, and working closely with shelter staff to create a safe living and working environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Access Control: Regulate and monitor access to the facility, ensuring that only authorized individuals enter the premises.

Surveillance: Conduct regular patrols and monitor surveillance equipment to detect unauthorized persons and prevent security breaches.

Emergency Response: Respond promptly to emergencies, including medical emergencies, fires, or breaches of peace within the shelter. Provide first aid and CPR if certified and necessary.

Incident Reporting: Document all security-related incidents and prepare detailed reports for shelter management and, when required, law enforcement agencies.

Maintain daily log book, school attendance, visitor and resident sign-in logs.

Safety Inspections: Perform regular safety inspections of the facility to identify and mitigate potential security risks.

Acquire understanding of building features and potential problems.

Conflict Resolution: Intervene in disputes among residents or between residents and staff, applying de-escalation techniques to resolve conflicts peacefully.

Collaboration with Law Enforcement: Work closely with local police and emergency services when incidents require external intervention.

Resident Support: Assist residents in emergency situations and support the implementation of the shelter's safety protocols.

Training: Participate in ongoing security and safety training programs and educate shelter staff on security protocols.

Perform other duties as assigned by the supervisor.

Essential Functions:

• Must be able to visually observe CCTV camera.

• Must be able to ascend/descend stairs in a building up to 8 stories.

• Must be able to maintain a standing post for at least 2 hours.

• Must be able lift and use a fire extinguisher.

Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent; further education in criminal justice or related field is a plus.

• Previous experience in security work, preferably in a shelter or residential setting.

• Certification in CPR and first aid is highly desirable.

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to interact effectively with diverse groups of people.

• Ability to remain calm and make critical decisions in stressful or emergency situations.

• Familiarity with security equipment and technology.

• A clear criminal background check.

• Physical fitness, as the role may require standing for extended periods and responding to emergencies quickly.

Work Environment:

The job involves working in a shelter setting, which may include exposure to challenging situations, including dealing with individuals in distress or crisis.

Shift work, including nights, weekends, and holidays, may be required to ensure 24/7 coverage of the facility.

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Conclusion:

The role of a Shelter Security Officer is both challenging and rewarding, offering an opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable populations. Candidates must possess not only the necessary security skills but also empathy, patience, and a strong commitment to the safety and dignity of all shelter residents.