Canine Security Officer

Overview

The Security Canine Officer will utilize a canine animal in the performance of his/her duties to provide a secure environment for patient care functions of the Medical Center by protecting patients, visitors, and staff through the patrol of buildings, property, and grounds. The Officer will respond to, evaluate, and assist with mitigating any security related issues.

• Monitor and patrol properties to ensure the safety of patients, visitors, and staff.
• Respond to security incidents and mitigate risks.
• Assist with investigations and incident reporting.
• Operate security equipment and systems, including access control, CCTV, and the computerized Incident Report System.
• Maintain the health and safety of the canine partner, ensuring all required guidelines and training are met.

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or GED.
• Minimum two years of law enforcement or public contract security experience, or one year of healthcare security experience.
• Experience with security/law enforcement canine handling is preferred.

License & Certification

• Ability to obtain a Special Police Commission through the City of Baltimore Police Department.
• Will attend training provided by the International Association for Healthcare Security and Safety (IAHSS) as a Healthcare Security Officer, if offered.
• Successfully complete the canine handler course of instruction provided by Mercy Medical Center.
• Valid Maryland Driver's License, or a valid driver's license from a neighboring state jurisdiction (PA, DC), with no suspended or revoked Maryland license.

Additional Requirements

• Computer proficiency:
  Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, Meditech, Epic, Performance Manager/Net Learning.
• Ability to read, write, and speak English effectively.
• Work independently and make independent decisions when warranted.
• Effectively communicate and deal tactfully with personnel, visitors, patients, physicians, customers, and the general public.
• Flexible, maintain personal integrity, and function effectively as part of a team.
• Follow written and oral instructions and work harmoniously with others.
• Good interpersonal communication skills and effective written communication.
• Knowledgeable in safety and security duties and use of equipment.
• Demonstrate effective handling of a large canine dog.
• Investigate criminal and non‑criminal matters, write investigative reports, and enter them into the Incident Report System.
• Operate computerized access control system and modify employee access levels.
• Operate CCTV and digital recording system; retrieve data as requested.
• Attend training by IAHSS; pass certification examination administered by IAHSS.
• Understand legal requirements for investigations, interviewing witnesses and suspects.
• Know Joint Commission Standards for Safety, Security and the Environment of Care.
• Work a variety of schedules, including weekends, holidays, overtime, and for extended periods during adverse weather or special security situations.
• Provide suitable residential environment for the canine as required and approved by the Mercy Canine Unit Captain and Director of Security.

Minimum: USD $21.15 per hour.

Maximum: USD $34.90 per hour.

Compensation decisions are made in alignment with internal equity, role scope, and market data to ensure fair and consistent pay practices. Most new hires are typically placed within the lower to mid‑portion of the range; offers above that level are reserved for candidates with advanced or highly specialized qualifications.

• Competitive health, prescription, vision and dental benefits & wellness credit for eligible employees
• 403(b) retirement plan with generous company match and “catch up” provision
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & company paid holidays
• Tuition reimbursement
• Mental Health resources and other employee related wellness opportunities through our Employee Assistance Program
• Employer paid Short & Long Term Disability benefits for eligible employees
• Voluntary Benefits
• Discounts on auto & home insurance and Verizon plans
• Mercy’s Rewards & Recognition Program rewarding employees for going above and beyond in living Mercy’s Mission and Values

Mercy Health Services is sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer (EEO) recruiting talent for Mercy Health Services, which serves the greater Baltimore Metro and surrounding Maryland areas.