Security & Dispatch Officer

Position Description

Security & Dispatch Officer

Job Category
Fulltime Regular

ExemptOvertimeEligible
Overtime Eligible

Benefits Eligible
Benefit Based

Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community.

The Security/Dispatch Officer provides a safe and secure environment to all members of the Caltech community including students, staff, faculty, visitors and guests.

Job Duties

• Protect Campus facilities and personnel to preclude unauthorized access, theft, or vandalism.
• Respond to security calls and investigate suspicious activities.
• Provide support on a rotating basis with alarm monitoring, answering incoming calls, dispatching of incident calls, and referral of callers to other appropriate offices and departments, as necessary.
• Review security camera monitoring and access control systems; enters and retrieves data utilizing the security management access system.
• Keep precise logs of events and occurrences based on security guidelines; maintains and prepares a variety of sensitive information, reports, and records (e.g. clients, investigations, etc.); may assist with coordination of projects and/or collection of related information.
• Assist with smooth transition between shifts.
• The hours for this position are based on an altered work schedule (weekends, non-standard hours, holidays, and special events).
• The shifts for this position are based on a 4/10 work schedule with three available shifts: Morning watch, Day watch, and Evening Watch.
• Overtime hours are frequent in this position.
• This position will require a shift change/rotation once a year.
• Works independently with a robust understanding of various security fields. Uses experience and effective decision-making to meet goals. Tasks are diverse and vary in complexity.
• Stay current on policies, practices, and procedures in security to support and coordinate day-to-day operations.
• Answer and initiate calls, communicates clearly using two-way radio using applicable 10-codes; coordinates tasks and/or projects.
• Perform assessments of situations to determine appropriate action; demonstrates advanced knowledge of subject matter to gather information and develop reports (e.g. incidents, investigations etc.); oversees security logs and records based on department protocols.
• Maintain records and logs. Enter data into computer security systems. Collects and safeguards confidential information. Prepare regular reports for the department.
• Patrol campus buildings and grounds (by foot, bicycle, security truck, or cart) to provide and maintain safety and security for employees, students and guests, and to protect Institute facilities and property.
• Set up security measures and make the appropriate response or warnings based on the Institute's security policies and regulations; contacts police, fire services, or paramedics as needed.
• Coordinate and follow up with various emergency situations; determine if additional medical aid is required and initiate requests for fire and/paramedic services as needed.
• Respond to suspicious events or disruptions. Determines if any illegal or improper actions have occurred and if someone should be detained or arrested. Contact the police or other authorities when necessary.
• Provide customer service to general inquiries, security issues during business and non-business hours; coordinate requests for additional security services.
• Coordinate and participate in transferring security information to facilitate a smooth transition between shifts and ensure all security duties are completed per department protocol.
• Act as primary contact for campus information during non-business hours; provide customer service and assistance.
• Escort employees, faculty, guests and students throughout campus and the surrounding area as requested.
• Secure buildings and property during “lockdowns.”
• Help with raising and lowering the American flag on a daily basis.
• Provide input in identifying and developing goals and objectives to improve services to the Institute.
• Determine valid access and blocking or restricting access when requested; interfaces with local law enforcement agencies as necessary.
• Stay informed about the Institute's rules and guidelines. Help develop and implement security rules and guidelines for both the Institute and the Department.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications

• Must have basic typing/computer skills and familiarity with Microsoft Outlook, MS Word and Excel.
• Must have a valid California Guard Card upon hire and be able to maintain it.
• Must possess a CA valid driver’s license upon hire and be able drive Institute vehicles.
• Must be eligible and be able to adhere to the Institute's Motor Vehicle policy.
• First Aid, CPR certifications are required upon hire.
• Familiarity with security dispatch procedures.
• Must have an active dispatch certification or the ability to obtain a certification within six months of hire.
• Must be available to work any shift as assigned and be available to work overtime as needed.
• Must be able to conduct Security Officer activities as outlined in the job description, including being able to lift 30 pounds on a regular basis and walk, climb stairs, bend, and reach continuously during the course of the shift.
• Must be able to respond to emergencies, which may involve running up to 5 blocks across Campus, around obstacles and climb up to 9 flights of stairs.
• Demonstrated interest in a career in emergency response or security dispatch in a fast-paced, changing environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• 1 year of security dispatch experience.
• 1 year of law enforcement or security background.
• EMT Certificate is desirable.
• 1 year of security experience in a college or university setting is desirable.

Required Documents

• Resume.
• Cover letter.

Hiring Range

$24.25 - $27.25 Per Hour

The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training.

As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks.