Director of Campus Safety

POSITION SUMMARY

The Director of Campus Safety reports to the Chief Operations Officer (COO) and provides strategic leadership, administrative oversight, and operational management of all campus safety and security functions across the University. This role ensures a safe and secure environment for students, faculty, staff, and visitors by developing, implementing, and managing comprehensive safety and security programs, policies, and procedures. The Director is responsible for fostering a culture of safety, preparedness, and community trust across the University.

TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Protect University assets, including people, property, and facilities
• Lead and supervise a team of commissioned security officers and support staff while fostering teamwork and a strong customer service culture
• Provide daily oversight of personnel, including work allocation, scheduling, problem resolution, and performance management
• Review and approve timecards for accuracy and manage staffing levels to ensure adequate campus coverage
• Develop, implement, and coordinate training programs to ensure compliance with State of Texas regulations and maintain required certifications
• Ensure all personnel meet licensing standards set by the Texas Department of Public Safety – Bureau of Private Security and serve as (or qualify to serve as) the designated manager/licensing director
• Develop, implement, and enforce campus safety policies, procedures, and protocols to support a safe and secure environment
• Lead and manage investigations related to campus incidents and ensure proper documentation and reporting
• Develop and present crime prevention and safety awareness programs for students, faculty, and staff
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with local law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, and emergency management agencies 
• Establish and sustain productive collaborations with local law enforcement agencies, fire departments, EMS, and emergency management organizations.
• Develop, implement, and maintain comprehensive emergency response and business continuity plans addressing fire, medical emergencies, natural disasters, civil unrest, and other critical incidents
• Conduct regular emergency preparedness drills and training exercises
• Oversee and maintain physical security systems, including CCTV, access control, alarm systems, and locking mechanisms
•  Manage departmental budgets, monitor expenditures, and ensure cost-effective operations
• Prepare reports, risk assessments, and recommendations for senior leadership
• Promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful campus environment that supports a diverse community
• Perform other duties as assigned to effectively lead and support the Campus Safety Department. Other duties and responsibilities necessary to effectively lead the Campus Safety Department.

• Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice, Public Safety, or a related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in law enforcement, campus safety, or private security
• At least 5 years of progressive supervisory or leadership experience
• Extensive background in law enforcement, security operations, or emergency management
• Eligibility to meet licensing requirements with the Texas Department of Public Safety – Bureau of Private Security
• Experience working in a higher education or campus environment preferred

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, & ABILITIES

• Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to supervise, train, and develop staff
• Ability to develop, implement, and evaluate policies, procedures, and strategic initiatives
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Ability to foster a cooperative and customer service-oriented work environment
• Strong conflict resolution and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work effectively within a diverse campus community
• Sound judgment and decision-making skills, especially in high-pressure or emergency situations
• Knowledge of business continuity planning and emergency management protocols
• Familiarity with federal, state, and local safety and security regulations
• Experience with physical security systems, including CCTV, access control, and alarm systems
• Financial management skills, including budgeting and cost control
• Proficiency in standard computer applications and reporting systems
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines
• Commitment to the mission, vision, and values of the University

SUPERVISION

• This position reports to the Chief Operations Officer.

SALARY RANGE

• $70,000 annually, plus benefits!

POSITION STATUS

• Full-time, on-campus.

SETTING

Founded in 1875, Huston-Tillotson University is Austin’s first institution of higher education. The University is an independent, liberal arts, church-related, historically Black institution located on a 23-acre campus near downtown Austin, Texas. Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, the United Church of Christ, and the United Negro College Fund, the University offers undergraduate degrees across multiple disciplines. With a student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, the institution emphasizes personalized learning within a diverse, inclusive, and mission-driven environment.

Salary : $70,000