School Safety Officer

Job Description

Job Description

Fortis Group is hiring School Safety Officers for various shifts throughout the year. The pay is $30.00 per hour with overtime paid after 8 hours.

Our client, a nationally recognized, private, independent, coeducational, college-preparatory day school serves students from preschool through grade 12. We will be supporting an organization that is dedicated to developing the whole child through a balanced program of academics, arts, athletics, and character education.

The school provides a supportive, student-centered environment where excellence in academics, arts, and athletics is equally valued. Staff and faculty are united in ensuring a safe, welcoming, and inspiring atmosphere that allows every student to thrive. As a member of the team, the School Safety Officer plays a critical role in maintaining this environment of safety and respect. The position supports the school’s mission by ensuring a secure campus, building positive relationships with students and staff, and contributing to a culture of care, vigilance, and integrity consistent with the school’s values.

The School Safety Officer (SSO) protects the rights and property of the educational district or institution, its facilities, faculty, and students by enforcing policies and procedures related to security and safety. The School Safety Officer not only provides an armed deterrence but serves as an advisor to the principle by assisting with all matters involving school security and safety, investigating criminal activity, and liaising with local law enforcement officials.

Duties & Responsibilities

General Duties:

• Respond promptly to security incidents and emergencies, take appropriate action, and report them to relevant authorities and company management.
• Assist with any security related requests of the principal and faculty.
• Patrol school grounds and the interior building at regular intervals.
• Conduct regular door checks to ensure interior security integrity.
• Monitor student arrival and dismissal.
• Monitor parking lots, bus routes, and exits.
• Monitor school entrance for authorized visitors.
• Follow school dismissal protocols.
• Follow school event entry and dismissal protocols.
• Help ensure visitor protocols are being followed.
• Maintain an accurate and updated log of incidents, emergencies, and actions taken.
• Follow direction and orders from management and supervision.
• Operate and maintain security systems, including CCTV cameras, alarm systems, and access control systems.

Focused Responsibilities:

• Prioritized emphasis on student wellness and care through daily engagement.
• Build rapport with faculty by facilitating professional open discussion and dialog.
• Monitor school grounds and facilities to ensure student, staff, and visitor safety.
• Daily monitoring and identification of security vulnerabilities, and if found, followed up with timely reporting to school management and mitigation strategy.
• Ensure the safe transit of students within the school grounds, particularly during arrival and departure times.
• Maintain a thorough knowledge of school emergency procedures.
• Engage in conflict resolution and de-escalation activities when necessary.
• Collaborate with law enforcement and emergency services.
• Facilitate and participate in safety drills, including fire drills, lockdowns, and evacuation procedures.
• Train and educate school staff and students on safety procedures and preventive measures.
• Assist in managing traffic and parking within school premises.
• Adhere to all company policies and procedures.
• Safeguard and secure all equipment, especially firearms, at all times.

Qualifications

School Safety Officers are held to an extremely high standard of conduct. They must always display a high level of professionalism, courtesy, diligence, and care of duty. They must also be able to work independently, and as part of a team. General qualifications include:

• High school diploma or equivalent required; bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or related field preferred.
• State-certified active or former law enforcement officer with a minimum of 5 years of experience.
• Experience working in a school or youth-focused environment is a plus.
• Valid Concealed Pistol License (CPL) and excellent marksmanship skills.
• Strong understanding of crisis management and conflict resolution techniques.
• Ability to pass a thorough background check.
• Proven record of integrity, professionalism, and dedication to duty.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• CPR and First Aid certification preferred.

Working Conditions

• Must be available to work during school hours and additional hours for school events, as needed.
• Be prepared to work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions.
• May be exposed to hazardous conditions, such as violence, weapons, and dangerous chemicals.
• May be exposed to potentially stressful situations and environments, requiring high levels of resilience and composure.

Physical Requirements

• To stand or walk for extended periods, possibly in adverse weather conditions.
• Physical capacity to respond swiftly to emergency situations is necessary.
• Good eyesight and hearing are essential to observe, detect, and respond to potential security threats.
• Occasionally may be required to lift or carry heavy objects.
• Walk/run long distances, up and down stairs.
• Safely operate a motor vehicle with precision.
• Use firearms and other weapons.
• Think clearly and make quick decisions in stressful situations.
• Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.