Security Guard

Head Start Program Security Guard

Garfield - New Jersey

Greater Bergen Community Action’s (GBCA) Head Start Preschool program is a rewarding environment for individuals passionate about helping others who seek to advance their careers while making a positive impact. Our mission is to provide a quality, comprehensive educational program that prepares children and their families for kindergarten and life beyond. With its origins in the War on Poverty, Head Start is one of the longest-running federally funded programs. The Head Start model has been praised and emulated throughout the country. 

At GBCA, our Head Start Preschool program collaborates with local school districts. We offer a supportive work environment that recognizes the value of every employee, and our focus is continually on staff wellness.  

Our Building, Grounds, and Property Management Department is looking to hire individuals to serve as Security Guards who prioritize the safety and health of each child, parent, visitor, and staff member at our facility.  This position is full-time, Monday - Friday, 7:30 am to 4:30 pm.  Benefit Eligible: Health Coverage, Paid Time Off: vacation, paid holidays, and sick time. Eligible for retirement account match (max of 3%) after one year.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Three years of experience as a security guard or similar role.
• Preferred: Bilingual Spanish
• Excellent integrity, good moral character, and initiative.
• Ability to effectively communicate professionally and have English fluency – speak, read, and write.
• Preferred: Bilingual Spanish
• Display ethical and professional behavior when working with children, parents, school personnel, and outside agencies associated with the school. 

Responsibilities include:

• Ensure that all exits are secured before the start of each shift and at intervals during the shift.
• All locks around playgrounds and grounds will be unlocked in the AM and closed in the PM.
• Watch for safety and fire hazards and other security-related situations.
• Ensure that children are dropped off and picked up in an orderly and secure manner.
• Monitor all deliveries to the building to ensure security is not breached.
• Assist the professional staff, police, and emergency personnel in handling emergencies or disruptive situations.
• Encourage and ensure that all staff wear identification badges.
• Assist visitors with directions and ensure that their identification is displayed.
• Challenge unauthorized visitors and escort them to exits.
• Report any unauthorized visitors and acts of vandalism to the management team.
• Notify the building administration, police, and/or appropriate emergency personnel of any potentially dangerous or unusual situations.
• Immediately notify appropriate personnel of evidence of substance abuse, child abuse, child neglect, severe medical or social conditions, potential suicide, or individuals appearing to be under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.
• Participate in appropriate in-service and workshop programs.
• Protect the confidentiality of records and information about staff and use discretion when sharing such information within legal confines.