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Position Summary
The Public Safety Officer reports to their assigned Commander-Supervisor. The Public Safety Officer is responsible for ensuring the safety and security of Lake Forest College designated areas, or community. This role involves protecting students, staff, property, and resources by patrolling, monitoring, and enforcing policies and laws to maintain a secure environment.
The primary purpose of the Public Safety Officer role is to ensure a safe environment, prevent unauthorized or illegal activities, and support the campus and community by upholding safety standards. This role helps foster a secure and welcoming environment for employees, residents, and visitors.
The Public Safety Officer patrols assigned areas, responds to emergencies, and enforces rules and regulations. The officer works with the public to provide assistance and ensure a safe environment, upholding professional standards and collaborating with law enforcement as needed.
Key Responsibilities
● Safety Patrols: Conduct routine patrols to deter, observe, and report incidents or safety hazards.
● Emergency Response: Respond swiftly to emergencies, alarms, and accidents, providing first aid or coordinating with emergency services when necessary.
● Access Control: Monitor and manage access points to prevent unauthorized entry and ensure security protocols are followed.
● Incident Investigation: Conduct preliminary investigations, gather information, and report findings by following the chain of command: Commander/Supervisors and in extenuating circumstances notify the Public Safety Director.
● Public Interaction: Assist and provide information to the public and support community outreach and education on safety practices.
● Law Enforcement: Ability to communicate and team work with local organizations such as: fire department, police department, city officials and other relevant local authorities.
● Record Keeping: Maintain accurate logs and reports on patrols, incidents, and daily activities.
● Vehicle Upkeep: Responsible for inspecting squad vehicles for each shift member. Ensure that trash is picked up, surfaces are wiped down, and any items left behind are removed. Vehicles will need to remain clean and in orderly conditions. Encourage officers to take pictures, if they observe non-compliance and to report it to the supervisor immediately.
● Follow proper vehicle/squad maintenance scheduling. Facilitate information to the Pub Safe accounts payable contact to search for proper billing / invoices / statements to process services payments.
● Other tasks as assigned.
Working Conditions
● This is a full-time, non-exempt position with a standard workweek of 32 hours.
● Officers must be available to workday, evening, overnight, weekend, and holiday shifts, as assigned, to support a 24/7 campus safety operation.
● The position requires working both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions, including inclement weather such as rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.
● Duties may involve extended periods of standing, walking, patrolling on foot or in a vehicle, climbing stairs, and responding quickly to emergency situations.
● Officers must maintain confidentiality and professionalism in all interactions with students, faculty, staff, and visitors.
Key Skills and Competencies
● Communication Skills: Clear verbal and written communication abilities.
● Observation Skills: Keen attention to detail for identifying suspicious activities or hazards.
● Problem-Solving: Ability to assess situations quickly and make effective decisions under pressure.
● Conflict Resolution: Skilled in de-escalating situations and managing confrontations calmly.
● Physical Fitness: Capable of performing physically demanding tasks, such as patrolling, lifting, or restraining individuals.
Requirements
● Education: High school diploma or equivalent; an associate degree preferred.
● Coordination role experience preferred.
● Ability to collaborate with the team by stepping in to cover any shifts, when needed.
● Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, GPS tracking, route planning tools, calendaring and internet navigation proficient.
● Knowledge: Local/state transportation regulations and safety standards.
Physical Requirements
● Mobility: Frequent walking, standing, and occasional running.
● Strength: Ability to lift objects or assist individuals in distress.
● Endurance: Maintain performance during long shifts and in various weather conditions.
Knowledge Requirements
● Basic knowledge of relevant laws and legal procedures.
● Safety Protocols: Familiarity with security and emergency response procedures.
● First Aid and CPR: Knowledge of basic first aid and life-saving techniques.
Coordination and Cooperation Responsibilities
● Interdepartmental Collaboration: Work with other departments for seamless security and emergency support.
● Local Cooperation: Coordinate with law enforcement, fire departments, and emergency medical services when needed.
Record and Reporting Responsibilities
● Detailed Reporting: Write accurate, comprehensive reports on daily activities, incidents, and investigations.
● Data Management: Maintain security logs and records to support organizational transparency and accountability.
Preferred Qualities
● Integrity: High ethical standards and reliability.
● Dependability: Punctuality and accountability in fulfilling job duties.
● Community Focused: A genuine commitment to public safety on campus and community well-being.
● Calm Under Pressure: Stays composed in stressful or emergency situations.
Compensation and Benefits:
Full Time
Hourly Rate of Pay $22.00 per hour
If you are interested in learning more about employment at Lake Forest College, please visit Working at Lake Forest | Lake Forest College.
Benefits information is located at: www.lakeforest.edu/offices-and-departments/human-resources/employee-benefits
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