This is the second managerial level class in the Security Officer Series. Positions in this class serve as the charge position for security, protective services, fire prevention and protection, safety, and criminal pre-employment background check functions in agencies and the most complex state institutions. Positions in this class develop and maintain a continuous assets protection program; identify security deficiencies; recommend corrective actions; conduct investigations; write security policies and procedures for approval; and provide extensive training. Police and weapon certification are not requirements for positions allocated to this class. Positions ensure the proper application and compliance of agency rules and regulations. These responsibilities are exercised within defined jurisdictional boundaries. In agencies, this class administers and manages the activities of a complex, statewide security operation that is responsible for personnel and property protection; equipment needs analysis and recommendation for improvements; the procurement of security devices; and the review and analysis of procedures to minimize losses, and monitor and maintain the safety and security of buildings. Positions in this class may direct safety activities for an agency. This class is distinguished from the Security Manager class by its higher degree of accountability and responsibility, and more complicated role in relation to the protection of property assets and the performance of criminal pre-employment background checks.

Complexity of Work: Performs work of considerable difficulty in administering a security, protective services, fire prevention and protection, safety, and assets protection program in order to provide a safe and secure environment for all employees, visitors, customers, residents, and clients. Managerial duties typically include directing and supervising the work of the department; screening applications and interviewing candidates for departmental vacancies; and completing and reviewing performance plans and evaluations. Gathers information and completes institutional, agency, state and federal reports. Ensures that the appropriate staff members receive in-service training, as well as specialized training to meet the needs of the agency and institution. Prepares and monitors the department budget; and promulgates policies, procedures, rules and regulations related to the institution and agency. Positions in this class may be responsible for any of the following activities: training in the use and maintenance of fire prevention equipment; inspection of departmental equipment for repair and replacement; inspection, maintenance, and inventory of all fire extinguishers in the agency/institution; ensuring that evacuation plans are designed and approved; ensuring that fire drills are scheduled and conducted; enforcing traffic laws on the facility grounds; planning and monitoring parking for the agency/institution; conducting criminal pre-employment background checks for the agency; conducting new employee orientation as it relates to security, protective services and safety) maintaining Police Property Control areas for all criminal evidence; supervising criminal investigations; making arrests; and investigating a variety of institutional security and safety cases.

Supervision Given: Supervises security, electronic surveillance and clerical support personnel.

Supervision Received: Receives general direction from a high level administrative position.

Scope: The responsibilities of positions in this class affect the overall well being of the agency’s or institution’s community and to some extent the effectiveness of the institution’s management in relation to the services it provides.

Impact of Actions: Positions in this class have serious effect on the agency’s or institution’s ability to maintain a secure environment for its employees, visitors, customers, clients, or residents. Ineffective actions could result in significant costs in terms of time, services, public goodwill and agency/institution integrity.

Personal Contacts: Frequent contacts with employees and clients to explain and ensure compliance with policies, procedures, rules and regulations; with the members of the institution's safety department to schedule fire drills; with the staff of other state agencies and with consultants to schedule training; and frequent contact with state and local law enforcement officers to provide and obtain assistance and information. Positions in this class may also have frequent contact with officials of the court to provide information regarding charges placed.

Knowledge: Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of security, protective services, investigative techniques, and fire prevention and protection. Working knowledge of the operations of the institution, of the administration of a criminal pre-employment background check program, and of principles of supervision.

Skills: None identified for this class.

Abilities: Demonstrated ability to plan and implement security, protective services, and fire protection and prevention programs for an institution of considerable size. In addition, demonstrated ability to plan and implement a pre-employment background check system for a complex agency; to supervise the work of others; to plan activities for the department; to communicate effectively both orally and in writing; to operate communication equipment; and to explain and ensure compliance with policies, procedures, rules and regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS GUIDE*

Licenses or Certification: Valid Virginia driver’s license.

Education and Training: Graduation from an accredited college or university with course work in security, protective services, safety, or a related field.

Level and Type of Experience: Experience as a first line shift supervisor or manager in a law enforcement, crime prevention, safety or security program.

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

This class was revised in June 1988, as a result of the Statewide Classification Review/Specification Update Program and was previously titled Institutional Security Director.

Last updated: 7-1-88