3rd Shift Security Officer (Wage/Part-Time)

About the role

The Security Services Department identifies hazards and risks to the safety and security of patients, visitors, and staff at Southern Virginia Mental Health Institute (SVMHI) and develops, implements, and monitors programs to eliminate, correct, or minimize those hazards. The department handles day-to-day safety and security operations.

Responsibilities

• Monitor entrances to the facility and facility grounds (interior and exterior) to ensure visitors, patients, and employees comply with SVMHI and DBHDS policies and procedures.
• Maintain a safe and secure environment.
• Minimize contraband entering the facility.
• Minimize patient elopement risks.
• Serve as a DI‑201 facility investigator to conduct unbiased investigations of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of clients when assigned by the Facility Director.

Requirements

• Possess a valid driver’s license without any court‑ordered restrictions, which must remain active throughout employment.
• Hold a valid Virginia security guard license or be able to obtain one within six months of employment (must remain active).

Qualifications

• Experience as a Security Officer in a psychiatric healthcare, acute care, long‑term, or correctional setting is preferred.
• Training or prior experience in Police Science, Security, Law Enforcement, Corrections, or a related field is advantageous.
• Veterans and individuals with National Service experience are encouraged to apply.
• High school graduation or equivalent is required.

Skills

• Ability to work independently using resourcefulness, sound judgment, integrity, and tact.
• Ability to react appropriately in routine and emergency situations to deal effectively with patients, visitors, staff, law enforcement officials, and the general public.
• Ability to read and write detailed reports with attention to detail, including correct grammar.
• Physical ability to make walking rounds and to intervene, restrain, and/or transport physically aggressive or combative patients.
• Ability to work with patients with psychiatric disabilities.
• Ability to complete facility‑sponsored TOVA (behavior management program) training.
• Ability to safely operate a motor vehicle.
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, including explaining policies and procedures to visitors or staff.
• Ability to render credible testimony in a court of law.
• Ability to work in a secure, locked environment with individuals experiencing acute symptoms of mental illness and/or additional forensic/legal involvement.

Pay

Hiring range: $23.05 per hour (Pay Band 3).

Schedule

Four 7‑hour shifts from 12:00 a.m. to 7:30 a.m., or as scheduled by the security supervisor to meet business needs.