Security Officer III

Job Description:
Security Officer III
Come work in an environment where we truly value and respect those we serve and believe in the mission that all people can achieve a higher level of wellness and independence.
The state supported living centers serve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities who are medically fragile or who have behavioral problems. The centers provide campus-based direct services and supports at 13 centers located throughout the state.

The state of Texas offers many benefits to employees. HHSC is a qualifying organization for the Federal Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program, which forgives the remaining balance on college student Direct Loans after making qualifying monthly payments. We also offer excellent health benefits, a lifetime monthly retirement annuityas well as (k) and Programs under the Employees Retirement System of Texas.
If you are looking for a place to work where you can establish a career that is filled with purpose, this is the job for you
The Security Officer III is responsible for maintaining a secure and protective environment at the Mexia State Supported Living Center by observing and taking action and reporting incidents or security violations involving the residents and initiating emergency response as appropriate. Monitors alarms and surveillance cameras, patrols the buildings and grounds, checks badges or proper identification at facility gate/entrance, and handles after-hours emergency calls that would enhance the safety of facility residents, employees, and visitors. Responsible for the dissemination and coordination of emergency responses and information, and notification to facility management and law enforcement if appropriate, in the event of emergency and/or security violation situations. Performs monthly fire extinguisher inspections in all buildings. Identifies unfamiliar persons on campus and within the homes/buildings as captured on surveillance cameras and during routine patrols. Ensures appropriate lighting for the safety of residents, staff, and visitors. May train other security officers. Works at a facility serving individuals who have complex needs and who may exhibit aggressive and/or self-injurious behaviors. Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Completion of work requires the use of established methods and/or techniques and decisions are varied but based on well-defined guidelines.
Essential Job Functions:
Attends work on a regular basis and may be required to work a specific shift schedule or, at times, even a rotating schedule, extended shift and/or overtime in accordance with agency leave policy and performs other duties as assigned.
Monitors surveillance cameras in state supported living center/state hospital buildings for unauthorized persons, fires, and unusual occurrences and incidents and reports emergencies immediately upon discovery. Reports abuse, neglect and/or exploitations allegations through proper channels if suspected during surveillance camera monitoring.

Conducts routine patrol of buildings and grounds taking appropriate action upon discovery of unauthorized persons or activities.

Responds to all fire alarms and investigates the cause of alarm, taking any emergency action if necessary in accordance with training received. Assists with fire drills and other proactive life safety checks as directed.

Handles the dissemination and coordination of emergency responses and information, and notification to facility management and law enforcement personnel, if appropriate, in the event of emergency and/or security violation situations.

Assists in the apprehension of suspects, where reasonably possible, in cases of unauthorized entry into buildings and work areas, malicious mischief, or other violations.

Prepares timely and accurate documentation relative to emergencies and/or security violations.

Evaluates and makes recommendations for changes to security regulations.

Trains, coaches, and mentors new security officers as needed.

Attends and participates in all mandatory training to meet requirements, maintain job-competence, and develop professionally.

Other duties as assigned include but are not limited to actively participating and/or serving in a supporting role to meet the agency’s obligations for disaster response and/or recovery or Continuity of Operations (COOP) activation. Such participation may require an alternate shift pattern assignment and/or location.
Knowledge Skills Abilities:
Knowledge of the building or premises security, use of surveillance equipment, and of the rules and regulations pertaining to building admissions and exits, and of alarm devices.
Skill in oral and written communication, including writing incident and other investigative reports.
Ability to communicate with potentially aggressive residents, visitors, and employees.
Ability to patrol grounds, detect danger, and take appropriate action.
Physical ability to walk extensively, run occasionally, and assist in restraining during an emergency.
Ability to drive a state-vehicle.
Ability to prepare concise reports.
Ability to train others.
Ability to remain calm, reasonable, and react quickly in an emergency situation.
Skill in defusing potentially difficult situations.
Skill in monitoring and assessing situations and determining appropriate response.
Knowledge of basic traffic and parking regulations.

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