Safety Ambassador

Advertising Summary: Virginia Commonwealth University's Department of Campus Police is seeking a full-time Safety Ambassador to support the safety and wellbeing of the VCU and VCU Health System community. This is a fully onsite, non-sworn civilian staff position within the Public Safety and Security department, responding to public safety calls for assistance that do not require a sworn police officer. Working in close coordination with VCU Police officers, the Safety Ambassador provides a visible, approachable presence across campus environments including outdoor areas and serves as a trusted first point of contact for students, faculty, staff, and visitors. This is a critical position requiring strong judgment, communication skills, and the ability to de-escalate challenging situations professionally and effectively.

Unit: Public Safety And Security MBU

Department: Campus Police

Department Summary: Join the VCU Police Department as a Safety Ambassador! Virginia Commonwealth University is offering an exciting opportunity to make a positive impact on campus safety.

Duties & Responsibilities:

The primary role of the Safety Ambassador is to respond to public safety calls for assistance that do not require the presence of sworn, uniformed police officers. Safety Ambassadors will support members of the VCU and VCU Health System community by working in coordination with VCU Police. These Folks will provide a presence and visibility for the VCU community. The Safety Ambassador is non-sworn civilian position that works daily at VCUPD and it’s officers.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Thorough knowledge of applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations, as well as Virginia Commonwealth University and VCU Police Department policies, procedures, and guidelines.
• Demonstrated ability to interpret, apply, and communicate policies, procedures, and regulations accurately and consistently.
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships and collaborate with individuals at all levels within and outside the university.
• Ability to ask thoughtful questions, exercise sound judgment, and maintain professionalism when handling sensitive or complex matters.
• Valid Virginia driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.
• Strong problem-solving, critical thinking, and conflict resolution skills, including the ability to de-escalate challenging situations and respond effectively under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple priorities, organize competing projects, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proven ability to work independently, exercise initiative, and assume responsibility while contributing effectively as a collaborative team member in an environment of shared accountability.
• Demonstrated ability to work in and foster an environment of respect, professionalism and civility with a population of faculty, staff, and students from all backgrounds and experiences, or a commitment to do so as a staff member at VCU.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a closely related field, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant experience.
• Experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities in a behavioral healthcare setting preferred.
• Demonstrated experience analyzing policies and procedures.
• Proven ability to conduct research, gather and evaluate information, prepare comprehensive reports, and interpret policies, regulations, and procedures.
• Strong analytical, written, and verbal communication skills with the ability to apply critical thinking in complex situations.

Salary Range: $39,000 - $42,000

Benefits: All full-time university staff are eligible for VCU’s robust benefits package that includes comprehensive health benefits, paid annual and holiday leave, generous tuition benefits, retirement planning and savings options, tax-deferred annuity and cash match programs, employee discounts, well-being resources, abundant opportunities for career development and advancement, and more.

FLSA Exemption Status: Non-Exempt

Hours per Week: 40

Restricted Position: No

ORP Eligible: No

Flexible Work Arrangement: Fully Onsite

University Job Title: 31161N - Safety Ambassador 1

Contact Information:
Contact Name: Brian Sussman
Contact Email: sussmanbn@vcu.edu