Public Safety Officer

Public Safety Officer I (Open to lateral officers and academy graduates)

To create a safe, secure, crime‑free environment for the Trojan Family through exemplary and professional service.

DPS is one of the largest campus public‑security departments in the United States, with over 300 dedicated full‑time employees. We share university’s ONE USC Safety Vision of ensuring an environment where everyone feels safe, respected, and protected from being a crime victim, addressing the needs of all USC students, faculty, staff, and neighbors throughout USC’s spheres of influence.

• Safeguard the Trojan Family by patrolling on foot or in a vehicle, responding to radio and/or telephone calls for routine and emergency assistance in criminal and non‑criminal matters.
• Act proactively to deter and prevent unlawful behavior through internal and external public‑safety functions.
• Work under the direct supervision of a watch commander, field supervisor, or a unit manager/supervisor, exercising “powers of arrest” authority as per a Memorandum of Understanding with the LAPD while on duty.
• Maintain security of USC assets and facilities.
• Testify in court to safeguard the university’s interests.
• Engage the community in crime prevention and public information programs within USC and surrounding communities.

4/10 alternative work schedule; 10 hours per day, 40 hours per week. Shifts may include holidays, weekends, overtime, special events, and emergencies. Availability to work certain special events and emergencies is required.

The application will undergo a rigorous evaluation based on relevant experience and education. After interviews, successful candidates will complete background, psychological, and medical evaluations following P.O.S.T. guidelines.

• Obtain State of California Patrol Persons and Firearms permits from BSIS.
• Valid California Class C driver’s license.
• POST‑certified Level I Academy or equivalent training, or one year experience as a USC Community Service Officer (CSO) meeting the POST requirement.
• Provide a copy of the DMV pull‑notice record as a final condition of employment.

• Tuition assistance for you and your family.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance options.
• 403(b) retirement account with a 5% matching contribution by USC.
• 50% subsidy on Metro, LADOT, and Metrolink passes.

The hourly rate for this position is $41.47. Pay is determined based on scope of responsibilities, experience, education, skills, and market considerations.

• Education:
  
  High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience:
  
  At least 1 year.
• Licenses/Permits:
  Valid California Class C driver’s license; POST‑certified Level I Academy (modules A, B, and
  
  C) or equivalent out‑of‑state training, or one year experience as a USC CSO meeting the POST requirement;
  State of California Patrol Persons and Firearms permits.

USC is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law or USC policy. USC observes affirmative action obligations consistent with state and federal law and will consider applicants with criminal records in accordance with applicable laws and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance.

USC provides reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. For questions about accessibility or accommodations, contact USC Human Resources at (213) 821‑8100 or uschr.