Director of Campus Safety and Security

Description

Battle Ground Academy seeks a dedicated and experienced Director of Campus Safety and Security to provide leadership and oversight for all aspects of campus safety and security. The Director will be responsible for developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive security programs, ensuring a safe and secure learning and working environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This position reports to the Assistant Head of School for Operations and Co-Curricular Programs and serves as a key member of the school's leadership team. The Campus Safety and Security Officer will appraise, protect, and promote the welfare and safety of each individual and the broader campus.

This is a full-time 12-month position that includes the following responsibilities:

Leadership and Management: 

• Provide visionary leadership and direction to the Campus Security Department, including the hiring, training, scheduling, supervision, and evaluation of security personnel.
• Develop and maintain clear departmental policies, procedures, and protocols in alignment with best practices and legal requirements.
• Foster a positive and professional work environment within the security team, promoting teamwork, communication, and continuous improvement.
• Manage the department's budget effectively, ensuring the responsible allocation of resources.

Safety and Security Program Development and Implementation: 

• Develop, implement, and regularly review comprehensive safety and security plans, including emergency response protocols, crisis management plans, and evacuation procedures.
• Conduct regular risk assessments and security audits to identify potential vulnerabilities and recommend appropriate mitigation strategies.
• Oversee the operation and maintenance of security systems, including access control, surveillance cameras, and alarm systems.
• Collaborate with school administration, faculty, and staff to promote a culture of safety awareness and proactive security measures.

Emergency Preparedness and Response: 

• Serve as a key member of the school's emergency response team, coordinating security efforts during drills, actual emergencies, and critical incidents.
• Develop and conduct regular safety drills and training exercises for students, faculty, and staff.
• Liaise with local law enforcement, fire departments, and other emergency services as needed.

Incident Management and Reporting: 

• Respond to and manage security incidents, conducting thorough investigations and preparing detailed reports.
• Maintain accurate records of security-related activities, incidents, and investigations.
• Ensure timely and appropriate communication regarding security matters to relevant stakeholders.

Community Engagement and Collaboration: 

• Build positive relationships with students, parents, faculty, and staff, serving as a visible and approachable resource for security-related concerns.
• Collaborate with other school departments (e.g., facilities, student life, health services) to ensure a coordinated approach to safety and well-being.
• Represent the school at relevant safety and security conferences or workshops.

Compliance and Legal Requirements: 

• Stay informed about relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations related to school safety and security.
• Ensure the school's security practices are in compliance with all applicable legal requirements and school policies.

Requirements

• Knowledge of BGA code of conduct, Tennessee Penal Code.
• Knowledge of investigative techniques and procedures.
• Knowledge of security measures and safety procedures.
• Knowledge of crowd control procedures.
• Knowledge of report writing.
• Knowledge of operation of a two-way radio system and radio communication procedures.
• Knowledge of laws, regulations, policies, and procedures related to assigned duties.
• Knowledge of interpersonal skills sufficient to deal with normal and possible confrontational situations.
• Knowledge of basic first aid, CPR and safety practices.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Ability to stay calm and react appropriately in unusual or emergency situations.
• Ability to diffuse situations calmly and with authority.
• Ability to exercise strict confidentiality of campus and student issues.
• Ability to learn rapidly and apply the laws of arrest and the school regulations.
• Ability to think clearly and take effective action quickly in an emergency.
• Ability to deal tactfully and diplomatically with students and general public.
• Ability to understand and follow oral and written directions.
• Ability to work cooperatively with students, the general public, district personnel and law enforcement agencies with poise and consistency.
• Ability to acquire and maintain related certifications.
• Ability to perform evening, weekend, and holiday security services.

Qualifications:

•   A bachelor's degree in criminal justice, security management, or a related field is preferred. An equivalent combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.
• 5 years of progressively responsible experience in security management, preferably in an educational or institutional setting.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing comprehensive security programs and emergency response plans.
• Strong knowledge of security technologies and systems (e.g., access control, CCTV).
• Excellent leadership, management, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.   

Classified Position Range:

CPR and First Aid certifications are required.

Successful completion of a background investigation comparable to the P.O.S.T guidelines for similar positions.

Physical Characteristics With or without the use of aids:

• Sufficient vision to read small print.
• Sufficient hearing to hear normal and telephone conversations.
• Sufficient hearing to follow directions.
• Ability to speak in a voice that can be clearly heard and understood on the telephone and in face-to-face conversations.
• Sufficient dexterity to use hands and fingers to print or write legibly, operate telephone, computers, safety equipment, tools, and/or controls.
• Sufficient lower body strength, stamina and mobility to sit, stand, kneel, walk, stoop, site, bend and extend legs for prolonged periods of time.
• Sufficient physical ability to intervene in altercations, climb stairs, drive a vehicle, reach horizontally and vertically with arms, lift, carry, push or pull objects which may frequently exceed 75 pounds, carry out job duties in hot, cold, and inclement weather conditions.