This is the second class in the Security Officer Series. Positions in this class perform policy compliance, rule enforcement, crime prevention, security, traffic control, and safety work primarily for the security department of a state facility, or in an educational institution, or line agency. Positions in this class perform a variety of security officer duties in order to protect facility property and provide a safe and secure environment for employees, visitors, students and clients. Positions in this class usually function as security officers with general police powers as authorized by the Code of Virginia with limited jurisdiction, as conferred by a circuit court or sheriff, and may carry restraint devices or weapons. This class is distinguished from the Security Officer class by its emphasis primarily on the safety, security, and orderliness of people rather than on the security of a facility. It is distinguished from the Security Officer Supervisor class by its emphasis on patrol and monitoring responsibilities.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of moderate difficulty requiring the exercise of independent judgment in the interpretation and application of policies, rules and regulations, especially those which govern the treatment of clients. This work typically includes patrolling facility controlled property, buildings, or grounds on foot or in a vehicle to enforce rules and regulations, prevent crime, and assist clients and visitors. Positions may monitor a variety of systems and equipment for malfunctioning or inoperative conditions. Monitors building and facility security; operates a variety of communication equipment; directs and controls traffic; and issues tickets/citations to traffic and parking violators. Reports traffic accidents and may conduct accident investigations; responds to emergencies and requests for assistance; gives first aid; assists in the control/restraint/seclusion of combative/resistive clients; reports hazards which may endanger employee, client or public safety; and prepares and updates a variety of logs, records, and reports. Duties may also include conducting investigations and securing evidence; apprehending and detaining suspects within jurisdictional boundaries; serving legal papers as required; and testifying in court or at administrative hearings.

Supervision Given: Supervision is typically not a factor, however positions may serve as lead workers to lower level security personnel.

Supervision Received: Receives general supervision from a Security Officer Supervisor or higher level administrator.

Scope: Positions in this class perform work that affects the safety and security of assigned areas, property, employees, students, clients, and visitors.

Impact of Actions: Actions affect the compliance with rules, policies and regulations by employees, clients, visitors, and the public. Inadequate enforcement negatively impacts on safety and security, and may result in significant costs in time, money, or public goodwill; in loss of or damage to facility property; and in the injury of persons using property or facilities.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contacts with employees, clients, visitors, and the genera public in order to insure compliance with policies and regulations, and to provide information and assistance.

Knowledge: Working knowledge of statute enforcement; and of security and safety concepts, principles, procedures, and techniques.

Skills: Working skill in the use of security vehicles and equipment related to this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to follow oral and written instructions; to react appropriately in routine and emergency situations; to communicate tactfully with a diverse population; to operate or utilize equipment required in the conduct of duty. Demonstrated ability to gather information and write factual reports.

QUALIFICATION GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Valid Virginia driver’s license.

Education or Training: Graduation from high school or equivalent.

Level and Type of Experience: Some experience in law enforcement, security, safety, or a position with related duties.

An equivalent combination of training and experience indicating possession of the preceding knowledge and abilities may substitute for this education and experience.

This class was established in June 1988 as a result of the statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program. It replaces the ABC Security Sergeant class and some positions in the Institutional Policeman class.

Last updated: 7/1/88