The Safety and Security Coordinator is responsible for maintaining a safe, welcoming, and respectful environment for program participants, staff, volunteers, and visitors. This role ensures SVDP campus security with a strong emphasis on de-escalation, situational awareness, and proactive risk mitigation rather than enforcement.
The Coordinator serves as a visible and approachable presence, gets to know regular guests and their needs, responds to safety concerns, intervenes early to prevent escalation, and supports staff in managing challenging situations using trauma-informed and person-centered approaches.
Minimum Qualifications
- Education, Experience, and Certification:
- High school diploma or GED
- Prior experience in security, safety, loss prevention, or a related field
- Security Guard certification or license, if required by state or local regulations
- Experience in human services, shelter operations, or crisis-response is preferred, but not required
- Experience working with vulnerable populations, including individuals experiencing homelessness or behavioral health challenges
- Other Qualification:
- Strong verbal communication and conflict-resolution skills
- Ability to compassionately serve a diverse population, many of whom experience mental health and/or substance use disorder
- Demonstrated ability to remain calm and professional in high-stress situations
- Ability to exercise sound judgement and make quick, measured decisions
- Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings or weekends as needed
- Training or experience in de-escalation, crisis intervention, or trauma-informed care
- CPR/First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)
- Training and proficiency in Narcan utilization and administration
- Physical Requirements:
- Ability to remain on your feet for extended periods
- Ability to walk throughout facilities and outdoor areas
- Ability to respond quickly to emergencies, including climbing stairs or lifting up to 50 pounds if necessary
- Working Environment
- Community environment
- Flexible schedule required to meet scheduling demands
Essential Job Duties/Performance Standards:
- Safety and Security Operations:
- Maintain a consistent on-site presence to promote safety and deter unsafe and disruptive behavior
- Monitor facility access, conduct routine safety checks, and ensure compliance with organizational safety protocols
- Observe and assess situations that my present safety risks and take appropriate, proportionate action
- Document incident, safety concerns, and interventions in accordance with organizational policy
- De-Escalation and Risk Mitigation:
- Use verbal de-escalation techniques to calm tense or emotionally charged situations
- Intervene early in conflicts to reduce the likelihood of escalation or harm
- Support staff during challenging interactions with participants or visitors
- Identify environmental or behavioral risk factors and recommend preventative measures
- Collaboration and Communication:
- Work closely with program staff, supervisors, and leadership to maintain a coordinated safety approach
- Communicate clearly and professionally during incidents and routine operations
- Serve as a point of contact during emergencies until leadership or emergency responders arrive
- Maintain a visible and approachable presence in the dining room, shelter, and common areas, greeting neighbors and volunteers by name when appropriate and building rapport over time
- Emergency Response
- Respond to emergencies, behavioral crises, or safety incidents according to established procedures
- Contact emergency services when necessary and assist with crow control or scene stabilization
- Participate in emergency drills and support ongoing safety planning efforts
- Recognize when situations exceed the scope of this role and promptly involve supervisors or emergency responders
This job description is a summary of the essential duties and responsibilities of the position. It is
not intended to be a comprehensive listing of all duties and responsibilities. This job description is subject to change at management’s discretion.
We are an equal opportunity employer.
We are an E-Verify Program Participant.
ADA Compliant: If you require reasonable accommodation please let us know.
