Security Officer; Wage

Title: Security Officer (Wage)

State Role

Title:

69113

Hiring Range: $23.05/hour

Pay Band: 3

Agency: Dept Behavioral Health/Develop

Location: Southern Va Mental Health Inst

Agency Website: (Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)./

Recruitment Type: General Public - G

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services supports individuals by promoting recovery, self‑determination, and wellness in all aspects of life. This position will work at Southern Virginia Mental Health Institute (SVMHI), a 72‑bed, Joint Commission and CMS accredited inpatient psychiatric hospital operated by DBHDS. The Security Services Department is responsible for identifying hazards/risks to the safety and security of patients, visitors, and staff, as well as developing, implementing and monitoring the programs needed to eliminate, correct, or minimize those hazards and risks.

The department manages day‑to‑day operations to ensure a safe environment, reduce contraband entry, and minimize patient elopement risks. This role also serves as a DI‑201 facility investigator to conduct unbiased investigations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of clients when assigned by the Facility Director.

• Monitor entrances to the facility and grounds (interior and exterior) to ensure compliance with SVMHI and DBHDS policies and procedures.
• Maintain a safe and secure environment, minimizing contraband entry and patient elopement risks.
• Conduct investigations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation as a DI‑201 facility investigator.
• Work four 7‑hour shifts, including weekends from 12:00 a.m. – 7:30 a.m., or as scheduled by the security supervisor.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently using resourcefulness, sound judgment, integrity, and tact.
• Ability to react appropriately in routine and emergency situations to effectively handle patients, visitors, staff, law enforcement officials, and the general public.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; ability to read, write, and interpret detailed reports with correct grammar.
• Physical ability to perform walking rounds and to intervene, restrain, and or transport physically aggressive or combative patients.
• Experience working with patients having psychiatric disabilities.
• Completion of facility-sponsored TOVA (behavior management program) training.
• Safe operation of a motor vehicle.
• Ability to render credible testimony in a court of law.

• Valid driver’s license without court‑ordered restrictions; license must remain active throughout employment.
• Valid Virginia security guard license or ability to obtain within six months; license must remain active throughout employment.

• Experience as a Security Officer in a psychiatric healthcare facility, acute care, long‑term, or correctional setting.
• Training or prior experience in Police Science, Security, Law Enforcement, Corrections, or related field.
• Bilingual fluency in Spanish and English.
• Veterans and people with National Service experience encouraged to apply.
• Graduation from high school or equivalent required.

Applicants must list all relevant experience and will receive confirmation of receipt upon application submission. Applicants will undergo a fingerprint‑based criminal history check, drug screen, and reference checks. Under Virginia Code 37.2‑314 and 37.2‑408.1, the department is prohibited from hiring individuals convicted of specific “barrier” crimes.

COVID‑19 vaccination is no longer required; however, vaccinations are encouraged, and employees may be required to disclose immunization status for infection prevention.

DBHDS is an equal‑opportunity employer. Employment opportunities are open to all regardless of race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran status, political affiliation, genetics, or disability. Minorities, individuals with disabilities, veterans, and people with national service experience are encouraged to apply. EEO/AA/TTY.

Name: Human Resources
Phone: 434‑421‑3060
Email: svmhihrginia.gov

For the Commonwealth Alternative Hiring Process, individuals with disabilities should provide an AHP Letter (formerly COD) from the Department for Aging & Rehabilitative Services (DARS) or Department for the Blind & Vision Impaired (DBVI). Veterans are encouraged to submit relevant documentation. Please contact Human Resources at (434) 773‑4208 for assistance.