Transit Security Officer

Hiring Salary Starting at $57,789

This position is under the direct supervision of the Assistant Security Manager. Employees in this position are responsible for the protection of life, safety and property of the agents, assets, and patrons of Hampton Roads Transit, as well as for the operational continuity of the transit agency. Employees in this position must exercise discretion and experience to address security incidents in the transit environment and enforce or act upon established policies or other requirements.

Essential Job Functions:

(Duties listed are not intended to be all inclusive nor to limit duties that might reasonably be assigned.)

Duties include: The prevention of crimes and security incidents at HRT facilities, properties or aboard transit vehicles and vessels. The protection of HRT assets or personnel as well as patrons in the transit environment.  Close coordination with local law enforcement and emergency services in response to security or safety incidents. Responding to and remediating active security incidents or other emergencies and ensuring continuity of transit operations.   Performing other duties as assigned by the Security Manager.

Other Duties May Include:

• Assure that all security issues are properly documented in daily log or other report.
• Assist in any security related issues as identified or directed.
• Enforce HRT policies and procedures for personnel in the transit environment.
• Perform proactive patrols of facilities or other HRT assets on foot or from a vehicle.
• Monitor video surveillance systems and card access control systems.
• Use telecommunications tools to communicate with HRT personnel or emergency services.
• Conduct investigations or other special assignments to address security concerns.
• Carry a weapon for de-escalation and defensive purposes.
• Prevent unauthorized access to HRT sites or services.
• Manage records created and received in compliance with the Hampton Roads Transit Records Management Policy and Procedures.

Required Knowledge, Abilities and Skills essential to Job Functions:

• Knowledge of security operations, safety practices in a business environment and enforcement procedures.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing with staff and the public, to understand and follow standard operating procedures, to perform duties in a professional manner and appearance, to write and investigate required reports; to make independent and good judgment decisions within proper policy and procedures.
• Knowledge and understanding of state, local and federal criminal statutes affecting security work of Hampton Roads Transit.
• Understanding of alarm, access control and surveillance systems in HRT facilities.
• Skilled and certified in the use of a firearm and other defensive weapons as applicable.
• Ability to work under pressure and otherwise stressful situations.
• Skilled in the use of miscellaneous computer applications (e. g., word processing, excel).
• Skilled in de-escalation techniques and incident management.

Required Software Knowledge and Skills essential to Job Functions:

Proficiency in using computer systems and the listed software applications associated with performance of assigned work is essential.  Basic problem-solving skills associated with software applications used is expected.   Software usage relevant to job duties will be evaluated.

Software Applications:

Microsoft Office (Outlook, Excel, PowerPoint), computerized spreadsheets and databases, report preparation and presentations, correspondence, internet research

Safety Responsibility:

Perform all job duties and responsibilities in a safe manner to protect oneself, fellow employees, and the public from injury or harm. Promote safety awareness and follow safety procedures and policies. Take an active part in reporting unsafe conditions and any hazards within the workplace to their Supervisor, Manager and/or the Safety Department.

Training and/or Education:

Current certification as an Armed Security Officer through the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS), or the ability to obtain this certification in 60 days of start-date.

Current Firearms Endorsement registration, or the ability to obtain this certification in 60 days of start-date.

Required Experience:

Two (2) years of law enforcement experience or five (5) years as a professional armed security officer.  Must be at least 21 years of age. Military experience in security related assignment accepted in lieu of private security or law enforcement, with honorable discharge.

Preferred Experience:

Two-Year or Four-Year degree in Criminal Justice or related field preferred.

Public Transportation Security experience preferred.

Licenses or Certificates

• Possess a valid Driver's License. Acquire a Virginia Driver's License within 60 days after the date of hire (in instances when an out of state license is not the applicant's current state of residence).
• Possession of a current Armed Security Officer DCJS Registration Card and Firearms Endorsement (or ability to obtain within 60 days of start-date).

Special Requirements:

This position is classified as essential personnel.

FLSA Status:

Non-exempt

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Employees in this position are expected to be able to perform physically during security incidents and are expected to have no physical weakness or abnormality that would adversely impact their performance of assigned security functions.

Unusual Demands:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.  Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. 

Work is performed inside and outside of HRT properties or assets and may include exposure to inclement weather and unpredictable crisis situations.  Shift work is required and is subject to change per Security Management discretion.  Work involves meeting multiple demands on a timely basis. Duties may require working weekends and Holidays.