Security Officer

Job Description

The Public Safety Division at Virginia Tech is comprised of the Police Department, Environmental Health & Safety, and the Office of Emergency Management and has a critical role in supporting the well‑being of our community. We are essential in planning for and responding to emergency events, and in creating a culture of preparedness where employees and students are safe in their work and living environments.

• Locking and unlocking university buildings at prescribed times and as requested
• Continuous patrol of buildings and grounds on foot, bicycle, or vehicle
• Reporting safety and security deficiencies; identifying suspicious activities within the campus and handling them appropriately
• Responding to varying situations tactfully while conveying a professional image
• Reporting criminal activity to law enforcement officers
• Communicating via two‑way radio
• Completing daily reports and incident reports
• Providing escorts for visitors, employees, and students upon request
• Adhering to all criteria established for a Nationally Accredited Police Department

In performing the above duties, the security officer position requires a considerable amount of walking, climbing, carrying and lifting, and reporting for work in adverse weather conditions. All positions require night, shift, and weekend work. Security Officers may be subpoenaed by the court and must be able to give credible testimony.

The incumbent also performs other duties as requested; takes initiative to support a healthy work environment; strives to fulfill the terms in the Standards of Business Conduct; exemplifies the Virginia Tech Principles of Community; and supports the university’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve).

• Demonstrated experience involving public contact.
• Experience keeping records and/or logs, including demonstrated attention to detail with a high degree of accuracy.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal relationship skills.
• Must be able to observe patrolled areas for security violation safety hazards, handle stressful situations with emotional control and conduct mediation in a diplomatic manner.
• Must maintain compliance with all DCJS Campus Security Officer Regulations and all Department and University policies and procedures.
• Result‑oriented with demonstrated ability to follow through, make informed decisions, complete tasks and problem‑solve.
• Ability to work with a culturally diverse department and the University community.
• Ability to give credible court testimony.
• Ability to perform strenuous physical activities such as walking considerable distances and up and down stairs, ladders, etc.
• Ability to work in varied environmental conditions.
• Ability to maintain reasonably regular, punctual attendance.

• Must be a high school graduate or able to furnish documentary evidence of equivalency degree.
• Must be at least 18 years of age on the date of hire.
• Must be a U.S. citizen or legal resident eligible under the United States law for employment in the United States.
• This position is designated safety sensitive.
• Must successfully complete a criminal background check, including fingerprinting.
• Must undergo an extensive background check and credit history check, with satisfactory results.
• Must successfully complete a pre‑employment driver's license check and maintain eligibility to operate a state‑owned motor vehicle.
• Candidates for employment are required to successfully complete a pre‑employment drug screening.
• Incumbents are subject to random, reasonable suspicion, and post‑accident drug and alcohol screening, in accordance with department policy.
• Successful completion of a psychological assessment is required.
• Must currently possess or successfully obtain the following within 180 days of hire:
• DCJS Campus Security Officer Certification
• Security Officer Training Program, which includes driver and personal defense training
• CPR and First Aid Certification
• FEMA's APS-100 HE Certification

• The Security Officer position requires a considerable amount of walking, climbing, carrying and lifting, and reporting for work in adverse…